How to start a dog walking business

Updated 2026-05-01

Dog walking is one of the most accessible businesses to launch — the startup cost is minimal, you can start part-time, and demand in any residential area is consistent. The challenge isn't getting started, it's building a sustainable independent client base instead of depending on apps that take 20–40% of your earnings. Here's how to build it right.

Step 1: Register your business

Keep it simple to start:

• Business structure: Sole proprietor is fine to start; LLC adds personal asset protection and looks more professional to clients ($50–$200 to form)
• Business license: Get one from your city or county — typically $50–$150/year
• Business bank account: Separate your business income from personal finances from day one
• Business name: Keep it simple and local — "[Your Name] Pet Care" or "[Neighborhood] Dog Walking" works

Step 2: Get insured before your first walk

Two things can go seriously wrong in pet care: a dog you're walking bites someone, or a dog is injured or killed while in your care. Both can result in large claims. You need:

• General liability: Covers bodily injury to third parties (dog bites a stranger) and property damage
• Care, custody & control: Covers injury or death of a pet while in your care — this is the one GL alone doesn't cover

Some dog walkers also carry bailee's coverage if they keep pets in their home.

Step 3: Set your rates

Research local rates on Rover for your ZIP code before setting yours. Adjust up or down based on your experience and the local market.

Step 4: Start on Rover — but plan to graduate off it

Rover takes 20%. Wag takes 40%. That's real money — on $30 walk, Rover keeps $6. At 20 walks a week, you're giving up $240/month. At 50 walks, over $600/month.

Use Rover to build your initial client base and reviews — it drives clients to you that you couldn't find otherwise. But every time you can, move clients to direct booking:

• After 3–5 walks, mention that you also take clients directly
• Offer a small discount for direct clients ($2–$3/walk) — you still make more without the platform fee
• Set up your own booking through Rover's policy won't allow direct poaching — but you can let clients know you're available outside the platform once a relationship is established
• Get a scheduling app (Time To Pet, Jobber) for direct clients

Step 5: Build your independent client base

The channels that work best for building direct pet care clients:

1. Personal network first — every pet owner you know
2. Nextdoor and local Facebook groups — introduce yourself with a photo and offer
3. Vet offices and groomers — leave business cards; ask if they have a referral board
4. Dog parks — show up, talk to regulars, be the person people think of when they need a walker
5. Google Business Profile — set it up free; "dog walker near me" is a real search
6. Apartment buildings — introduce yourself to management; post a flyer if allowed

Step 6: Build systems as you grow

Once you're regularly walking 10+ dogs a week, you need systems:

• Time To Pet or Jobber: Scheduling, invoicing, GPS walk tracking, and client communication in one place
• Walk photos: Send a photo or short update after every walk — clients love it and it builds trust that keeps them loyal
• Contracts: A simple service agreement covering liability, cancellation policy, and emergency procedures
• Emergency contacts: Every client's vet info on file before the first walk

Expanding into pet sitting and boarding

Dog walking is a natural stepping stone to pet sitting and in-home boarding, which pay more per booking. Overnight sits typically run $50–$100/night. In-home boarding (dogs stay at your home) runs $40–$80/night depending on market.

Be aware that in-home boarding has different insurance requirements and some municipalities regulate it as a pet facility. Check local zoning laws before advertising boarding services from your home.