If dog walking business ideas are always on your mind, unleash your entrepreneurship by taking on the essential role of the professional dog walker. Dog walkers are considered lifesavers for pet parents on the go who need some help taking care of their furry friends. It can also be fun and profitable!
Discover the ins and outs of the dog walking business with our guide highlighting the vital skills you need, how to find clients and organize your operations, set prices, and understand your liability insurance needs.
The market for dog walkers has never been hotter. Let’s look at the stats — three in five (59%) Canadians say they own at least one pet, and the most popular are dogs! Canadians with at least one dog make up 35% of the population. One could argue that Canadians love dogs as much as they love children. How so? Well, in 2022, according to a nationwide survey, there were estimated to be around 7.9 million pet dogs in Canadian households. That is 20% of Canada’s population of 40 million, which is pretty much on par with how many kids 18 and under make up our population.
Whether you want a side gig or a full-time venture, leash up and let’s em-bark on this exciting journey!
What Is a Dog Walker? What Do They Do?
A dog walker is a professional who gets paid to take other people’s dogs on outdoor escapades and provide companionship for a set period. They ensure pups get fresh air and time to explore, burn energy, and socialize. Regular walks help prevent boredom and behaviour issues!
A dog walker has many options; they can work independently or as part of a business. Some walk one dog at a time, while others handle multiple dogs. There may be additional services some may choose to provide to satisfy the preferences of the owners, who usually provide specific instructions.