Ask any busy dog owner what worries them about a long day at work, and you’ll often hear the same answer: the dog stuck at home alone. That worry is the foundation of a very pleasant side business.
Dog walking and pet sitting offer fresh air, exercise and plenty of animal company, and owners will pay well for someone they trust. Here’s how to get started on the right footing.
Decide what you’ll offer
You don’t have to do everything. Pick the services that fit your free time:
- Solo or small-group walks during the working day
- Drop-in visits to feed, play with and check on pets
- House sitting, staying in the owner’s home while they travel
- Home boarding, looking after pets in your own home
- Extras such as brushing or giving medication
People with free lunchtimes or flexible days suit dog walking. Those who can stay overnight, or visit several times a day, suit pet sitting.
Sort out the paperwork first
Rules differ between areas. Some places need a licence to board animals at home, and some limit how many dogs one person can walk at once. Parks may have their own restrictions too.
Get specialist pet care insurance before your first booking. It covers you if an animal is hurt, goes missing or causes damage in your care, and some policies also cover lost house keys. It’s inexpensive for the peace of mind it gives you and your clients.
Earning an owner’s trust
You’re being trusted with a member of someone’s family, and often their house keys. Show you take that seriously:
- Offer a free meet-and-greet before the first booking
- Ask detailed questions about routines, health, diet and behaviour
- Keep vet details and emergency contacts on file
- Send a photo or short update during every visit
A pet first aid course is well worth considering too. It builds your confidence and reassures nervous owners.
Finding your first clients
Pet care spreads by word of mouth, so start with people you know: friends, neighbours and colleagues with pets. Then widen the net:
- Pet care apps and platforms, which differ from country to country
- Neighbourhood groups and community apps
- Noticeboards at vets, groomers and pet shops
- A simple website or social media page with photos and reviews
Platforms bring clients quickly but take a share of your earnings. Many sitters use them at the start, then gradually build a list of direct clients.
What to charge
Prices depend heavily on where you live, so research what other walkers and sitters nearby charge, on apps and independently. Typical pricing includes:
- A rate per walk, often higher for solo walks than group ones
- A rate per drop-in visit
- A nightly rate for house sitting or boarding
- Extra charges for additional pets, medication or public holidays
Agree your cancellation policy and payment terms before the first booking.
Group walks: profitable but tricky
Walking several dogs together boosts your earnings, but it raises the risk too. Only group dogs that get along, and never take more than you can safely handle or local rules allow. Some dogs genuinely need solo walks, and owners respect a walker who recognises that.
The less glamorous side
This is outdoor, physical work in every kind of weather. You’ll handle strong dogs, muddy paws and plenty of mess. Good waterproofs, sturdy shoes, spare leads, poo bags and treats are essential.
Keep a reliable schedule so no visit is ever missed. Dependability is what turns a one-off booking into a regular client.
Building a loyal client base
Happy owners talk to other owners. Ask for reviews, stay in touch with regulars and consider a small discount for repeat bookings. In time, you can raise your prices, focus on the most convenient neighbourhoods, or even bring in help.
For plenty of animal lovers, this starts as a side hustle and grows into a flexible little business they genuinely enjoy.
About Shortcuts to Success
Practical, honest guides to earning extra money alongside your job. We cover freelancing, selling online, content income and local gigs, including the costs and risks most side hustle sites skip.