How much time do you want to dedicate to your business? Once you commit to walking someone’s dog, that person is counting on you to be there. Dog walking can be done part time but not some of the time. Like any successful business you need to take this seriously from the start. So, lets say you want to commit to 10 hours a week walking. Would that mean twice a day – five days a week for 1 hour? Realistically 10 hours a week is probably too many hours to commit if you are just starting out. It also depends greatly on your family life schedule. Even though you haven’t built a clientele yet you should know what your hours will be. As your business grows, you may choose to add additional walks which would mean more hours committed.
The next thing to plan in advance is your rate. If you live in an area where there is competition, you certainly would not charge more than others are charging. On the other hand, if you feel confident that you will provide a quality service, don’t undercharge drastically either. As potential customers hear of your service and your business grows, you don’t want to feel you are being underpaid. Keep your fee reasonable and competitive. Plan ahead and know what you will charge. You may wish to charge differently for small, large, old or young dogs. With this in mind know that different breed of dogs demand different aspects of you.
Before starting your business you should research and understand basic dog behavior. If someone wanted to hire you to walk their German Shepard would you schedule this at the same time as someone else’s Pekinese? Certain breeds are aggressive and you should not take chances that you or the animals could get hurt. If you’re unsure of a dog’s disposition, you should walk it individually. Also understand that dog’s are pack animals. When you are in charge of one or a group of dogs YOU are the pack leader. Realizing this is key to your success.
The last step in preparing your plan as a dog walker is to get the word out about your business. You may already know a few people that you could just tell and offer the service, or you may need to advertise. Advertising on your local craigslist is free. Anyway that you choose to advertise is fine. You are sure to add clients as the word gets out. A lot of your jobs will surely be from word of mouth.
So you see, there is a lot to consider before ever professionally taking that first dog for a paid walk. You need to have a plan and really understand the behavior of the dogs you will be getting to know.
Julie Shoemaker is a successful entrepreneur, hobbiest, and pet owner. To read reviews and topics concerning dog training please click here. http://shojul.bezoogle.com/pp/dog-training/