How to become a dog walker

Is becoming a dog walker right for me?

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Overview
What do dog walkers do?
Career Satisfaction
Are dog walkers happy with their careers?
Personality
What are dog walkers like?

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How to become a Dog Walker

Becoming a dog walker involves a combination of gaining relevant experience, building a strong reputation, and often establishing a small business. Here are the general steps to become a dog walker:

  • Gain Experience and Knowledge: Develop a strong understanding of canine behavior, breeds, and basic care. Volunteer at local animal shelters or offer to walk friends' or neighbors' dogs to gain hands-on experience. Consider taking courses or workshops on dog behavior, training, and first aid.
  • Research Local Regulations and Licensing: Check with your local municipality for any regulations or licensing requirements for dog walking services. Some areas may require permits or certifications, so make sure you comply with any legal obligations.
  • Build a Professional Resume: Create a resume highlighting your relevant experience, any certifications or training, and your love for animals. Include references from people who can vouch for your responsibility and ability to work well with dogs.
  • Obtain Necessary Certifications: While not always required, obtaining certifications in pet first aid and CPR can enhance your credibility and reassure clients of your commitment to their pets' safety.
  • Create a Business Plan: If you plan to establish your own dog walking business, create a simple business plan outlining your services, pricing, target market, and marketing strategies.
  • Insurance: Consider obtaining liability insurance to protect yourself and your clients in case of accidents or incidents during dog walks.
  • Market Yourself: Build a professional online presence through a website or social media platforms. Create business cards and promotional materials to distribute in local pet-related businesses. Network with veterinarians, pet stores, and other pet professionals to establish connections.
  • Set Your Rates: Research local dog walking rates to determine competitive pricing for your services. Consider offering introductory rates or discounts to attract initial clients and build your reputation.
  • Ensure Safety Measures: Invest in reliable leashes, collars, and any other necessary equipment to ensure the safety of the dogs under your care. Establish clear safety protocols for walks, including handling unexpected situations or emergencies.
  • Provide Excellent Customer Service: Communicate effectively with clients, providing regular updates on their pets' well-being and any noteworthy behavior during walks. Be punctual, reliable, and responsive to client inquiries.
  • Expand Services (Optional): Consider expanding your services to include additional pet care, such as pet sitting or basic training, to attract a broader client base.

Certifications
While there are no mandatory certifications specifically required to become a dog walker, obtaining certain certifications can enhance your skills, knowledge, and credibility within the industry. Consider pursuing the following certifications to demonstrate your commitment to providing quality care for the dogs you walk:

  • Pet First Aid and CPR Certification: Organizations like the American Red Cross offer pet first aid and CPR courses. These certifications can be invaluable in emergency situations and provide reassurance to pet owners about your ability to handle unexpected incidents.
  • Professional Animal Care Certification: Organizations like the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC) offer certifications for pet care professionals, including dog walkers. Earning this certification demonstrates your commitment to high standards in the industry.
  • International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) Membership: Joining the IACP and obtaining their certifications can provide you with access to resources, networking opportunities, and recognition within the professional dog care community.
  • National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) Certification: NAPPS offers a certification program covering various aspects of professional pet care, including dog walking. Completing their certification process can enhance your skills and credibility.
  • DogTec Dog Walking Academy Certification: DogTec offers a Dog Walking Academy program that provides comprehensive training for dog walkers. While not a formal certification, completing the program can equip you with valuable skills and knowledge.
  • Fear Free Certification: Fear Free provides certification programs aimed at reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in pets during veterinary visits and other interactions. While not specific to dog walking, this certification can demonstrate your commitment to the well-being of the dogs in your care.
  • Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator Certification: Offered by the American Kennel Club (AKC), becoming a CGC Evaluator allows you to assess and certify dogs as having good manners. This certification can add value to your services, especially if you provide basic training during walks.