3 answers
Kloie
Student
The Colony, Texas
7
Questions
Asked
894 views
How to start a dog walking business?
I’m a 13 year old girl wanting to start a pet walking business. How should I start?
Login to comment
3 answers
Rachel F
Senior User Experience Content Designer
15
Answers
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Hi Kloie,
It's so great that you're interested in starting a dog walking business. Planning is key! To get started, you'll want to decide which services you'll provide, set your rates, and choose a business name. There are some administrative tasks that may need to be done as well, such as registering your business (depending on your location), getting insurance that protects the pets while in your care, or creating a service agreement. Next, you'll want to get necessary supplies - leashes, dog waste bags, treats, etc. After these details are figured out, you'll work on building your client base using social media, flyers, or through partnerships. You may also want to consider checking out existing applications that use booking services to make scheduling a bit easier for you, such as Rover or Wag.
I hope this helps you get started. Best of luck!
It's so great that you're interested in starting a dog walking business. Planning is key! To get started, you'll want to decide which services you'll provide, set your rates, and choose a business name. There are some administrative tasks that may need to be done as well, such as registering your business (depending on your location), getting insurance that protects the pets while in your care, or creating a service agreement. Next, you'll want to get necessary supplies - leashes, dog waste bags, treats, etc. After these details are figured out, you'll work on building your client base using social media, flyers, or through partnerships. You may also want to consider checking out existing applications that use booking services to make scheduling a bit easier for you, such as Rover or Wag.
I hope this helps you get started. Best of luck!
Mike Waid
Executive Director
1
Answer
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Mike’s Answer
Congratulations on wanting to start your entrepreneurship journey. I started my first business when I was 12 years old (now 51) and have created, operated, and sold several businesses over my life. There are many challenges you will face merely because of your age. e.g. legal bank account signature, legal contracts, etc.
I would highly recommend talking with others who are in your industry but not necessarily direct competitors. Learn from their experiences that would directly help your business succeed. Document everything and always embrace learning.
On a practical sense, you will need:
- Business License
- Business Insurance
- Bank account
- A Brand identity (who you are... logo, business name, etc)
- Ways to reach new customers (social media, website, marketing, flyers, etc)
- Ways to manage and retain customers (online booking services, etc)
I'm happy to help answer any specific questions you may have.
I would highly recommend talking with others who are in your industry but not necessarily direct competitors. Learn from their experiences that would directly help your business succeed. Document everything and always embrace learning.
On a practical sense, you will need:
- Business License
- Business Insurance
- Bank account
- A Brand identity (who you are... logo, business name, etc)
- Ways to reach new customers (social media, website, marketing, flyers, etc)
- Ways to manage and retain customers (online booking services, etc)
I'm happy to help answer any specific questions you may have.
David Ludwick
Business Owner
30
Answers
Huntington Beach, California
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Kloie
That’s a great idea! Starting a pet walking business at 13 is totally doable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Get Permission and Support**
- Talk to your parents or guardians about your plan and get their permission.
- They can help you with transportation, safety, and handling payments if needed.
2. Research Your Market**
✅ Look around your neighborhood and ask:
- Are there many people with pets?
- Are there other pet walkers in your area?
- What do they charge?
3. Create a Business Plan**
- **Services:** Will you walk dogs only, or also offer pet sitting or feeding?
- **Pricing:** Start with competitive rates (e.g., $5–$10 per walk).
- **Schedule:** How many walks can you manage per day or week?
4. Prepare for the Job**
✅ Learn about pet care and safety:
- Know how to handle different breeds and personalities.
- Keep a basic pet first aid kit.
- Always carry water, waste bags, and treats.
5. Get the Word Out**
✅ Advertise your services:
- **Flyers:** Create colorful flyers and post them at local parks, pet stores, and vet clinics.
- **Social Media:** Post on local community pages or start an Instagram for your business.
- **Word of Mouth:** Ask friends and family to help spread the word.
6. Start Small and Build Trust**
- Begin with friends or neighbors’ pets to build experience.
- Offer a "first walk free" to attract clients.
- Be reliable and show up on time.
7. Keep It Professional**
✅ Keep track of:
- Payments and tips.
- Special instructions (like dietary needs or health issues).
- How the pets behave during walks.
8. Expand Gradually**
- Once you build a good reputation, you can increase your rates.
- Offer extra services like bathing or basic training to earn more.
Would you like help with a flyer or ideas for advertising? 😊
That’s a great idea! Starting a pet walking business at 13 is totally doable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Get Permission and Support**
- Talk to your parents or guardians about your plan and get their permission.
- They can help you with transportation, safety, and handling payments if needed.
2. Research Your Market**
✅ Look around your neighborhood and ask:
- Are there many people with pets?
- Are there other pet walkers in your area?
- What do they charge?
3. Create a Business Plan**
- **Services:** Will you walk dogs only, or also offer pet sitting or feeding?
- **Pricing:** Start with competitive rates (e.g., $5–$10 per walk).
- **Schedule:** How many walks can you manage per day or week?
4. Prepare for the Job**
✅ Learn about pet care and safety:
- Know how to handle different breeds and personalities.
- Keep a basic pet first aid kit.
- Always carry water, waste bags, and treats.
5. Get the Word Out**
✅ Advertise your services:
- **Flyers:** Create colorful flyers and post them at local parks, pet stores, and vet clinics.
- **Social Media:** Post on local community pages or start an Instagram for your business.
- **Word of Mouth:** Ask friends and family to help spread the word.
6. Start Small and Build Trust**
- Begin with friends or neighbors’ pets to build experience.
- Offer a "first walk free" to attract clients.
- Be reliable and show up on time.
7. Keep It Professional**
✅ Keep track of:
- Payments and tips.
- Special instructions (like dietary needs or health issues).
- How the pets behave during walks.
8. Expand Gradually**
- Once you build a good reputation, you can increase your rates.
- Offer extra services like bathing or basic training to earn more.
Would you like help with a flyer or ideas for advertising? 😊