The thought of starting a dog walking business is exciting, I know, but, like any business, it is not without its risks. 

Now, I am not here to poo-poo your goal of becoming a dog walker, I just want to make sure that you are aware of the potential disadvantages of owning a dog walking business.

Now, let’s take off those rose coloured glasses and get into the nitty-gritty of dog walking.

I am going to examine the risks of being a dog walker, and the risks of the business side of dog walking.

Risks of Being A Dog Walker

There are many risks that dog walkers endure on a daily basis working with our four-legged friends.

Here are just some of those risks:

Large Dogs

A large dog can pull hard, which can be hard on the body if they do not walk well on a leash.

Also if they decide to take off after a squirrel, you may be in for a rough ride!

Unruly Dogs

Behavioural issues can potentially be a deal-breaker. It only takes one misbehaving dog in a pack to cause a negative dynamic. 

Inexperience

As a new dog walker, you may not know enough about the dogs you walk to put them into suitable groups. You also may also not be totally comfortable with all breeds of dogs.

However, don’t worry, experience comes with time and you will eventually be able to read a dog’s temperament and put together compatible packs of pooches.

People

Did you know that there are people out there that do not like dogs!?

Crazy, right?

It is really important that you have control over your dogs at all times. Whether walking on a leash or off, it’s vital that the dogs listen to you and leave people alone who do not wish to pet them.

Weather

The weather outside is weather…. Ahh, nature, a fickle beast.

What can I say? Enjoy the warmth and sunshine when it’s there and dress properly for the rain, snow, cold, and wind.

You may want to invest in some higher quality rain and snow gear because you will be out every day regardless of what mother nature throws at you. 

Clients

You have to deal with the humans of your pooches. Bottom line.

If you do not really get on with a potential client, consider dropping them before you even start. Your business is client-based and you want the most compatible clients possible, humans and pooches.

I understand in the beginning you are not really in a position to turn down business, but trust your gut.

Ask yourself, “Is it really worth it?”

You are the best judge of character.

Sick Dogs

Just like humans, dogs get sick too. Familiarize yourself with the warning signs of sickness (lethargy, diarrhea, etc) and make a call as to whether or not you will take the dog out that day.

If you are doing pack walks, take the other dogs into consideration. It would be awful to spread any illness to other members of your pack.

You

That’s right, you are a risk as well. Remember, you are only one person.

What if you’re sick?

What happens when an emergency pops up?

It’s important to have backup plans in place, whether that’s another walker or you cancel for the day.

Have a policy in place that clearly outlines to your clients what happens on unexpected days you can’t walk their dogs.

Geography

Your clients may live far apart, meaning you are spending a lot of your time in your vehicle, picking up and dropping off pooches.

Consider making your service area smaller as you grow your business.

Having a large service area may be necessary for the beginning as you grow your client base.

Just take into consideration the travel time and gas prices, etc.

You know where your clients are, so make the best judgment for yourself.

Risks of Operating a Dog Walking Business

Believe it or not, there are disadvantages to owning a dog walking business.

In reality, there are risks in ANY business, so please do not let these scare you off from starting one if it is your dream job.

Just be aware of these pitfalls so you can put measures in place to minimize or avoid them altogether.

Legalities

Does your municipality require licensing or insurance?

Make sure you understand the necessary requirements in order to start your dog walking business properly.

Contracts

Do you have a contract in place outlining what types of services you provide, price,  how many dogs you walk at one time, length of walks, etc?

Having a contract in place helps you establish boundaries with your clients, and sets expectations early in the relationship.

Advertising

You need to advertise your business like mad, especially in the beginning when nobody knows who you are and you are not getting client referrals.

Luckily, I have a couple of articles here and here that can help you with ideas on how to successfully market your dog walking business.

Losing A Client

Sometimes clients move away, change jobs, or any other number of reasons why they may not need a dog walker anymore.

This happens, it’s life.

That’s why it’s important that you do an amazing job so your clients refer you to their friends, as well as employ a successful marketing strategy.

In the event that you lose a client, you can fill the spot rather quickly if you are continually getting your name out there.

Taxes

Thanks, Government!

If you’re like me, you have no idea what the tax rate is for a small business and how much you should save.

My advice? Talk to a professional. It may cost you money, but you don’t want to be stuck at the end of the year with a huge tax bill that you can’t pay. 

Find a reputable accountant that is knowledgeable about small businesses.

Don’t wait until tax time to find one. You don’t want to be stuck with a large lump sum to pay.

Find out how much your yearly tax bill is and save monthly for it. You won’t regret it.

I hope I didn’t scare you off your dream of becoming a dog walker with these risks. My goal is to inform you so that you can prepare yourself and minimize the risks involved.

Dog walking is an amazing career for anyone who loves dogs, the outdoors, and has an entrepreneurial spirit.

What has your biggest risk been when starting a dog walking business and how did you overcome it?