How to Market a Dog Walking Business

Do you love dogs? Then a dog walking business could allow you to run a business doing something you truly love. As with any enterprise, success is likely to lie in its marketing. So, here’s a few tips and suggestions about how to market a dog walking business.

About Us

As with any other business, there are risks – in the case of dog walking, the main risks are that an animal in your care gets injured, lost, or even killed. You may also face claims from a member of the public, if a dog in your care injures them or their dog. You might even lose the keys to your clients house and need to get the locks changed as a result. Our specialist Dog Walking Insurance can safely cover each of these risks.

 

Publish your website

It’s practically impossible for any business to thrive without a website – so it’s well worth devoting the time and resources to building and publishing a website that best markets your dog walking business.

 

Invest in the software

Along with your website, remember that there is a wide range of software to assist in just about every aspect of running your business – and, in this case, software designed to capture and manage your bookings will prove a real boon.

For example, Pet Sitter Plus is an online scheduling and invoicing software system designed specifically for dog walking businesses. Time To Pet is another specifically designed software system for dog walkers (and pet sitters) including real-time updates and in-app messaging.

 

Make the most of social media

Your customers are almost certain to be using some of the many social media platforms – so why not join the conversation and seize the opportunity to market your dog walking business along the way?

When promoting your business, demonstrate your professionalism by making sure your customers know you are fully certified and insured. Engage with posts to show that you are knowledgeable and helpful – and always keep it professional.

 

Blog it

Combine your following on social media with a blog on your website. A focused and carefully crafted blog can play a crucial role in marketing your business – so spend the time, imagination, and creativity writing an engaging and regular blog.

Use your blog to answer your customers’ questions – or those you wish they’d asked – and to emphasise the benefits and advantages of the dog walking services you offer.

Post reviews (get the reviewer’s permission first) and photos (again, get permission from the dog’s owner to use any images).

 

Promotional materials

Today, it might be tempting to concentrate so much on electronic media that you overlook good old-fashioned marketing through hard copies of marketing and promotional materials – such as leaflets, flyers, and business cards.

You don’t need to stop there but could also give promotional handouts such as toys for prospective customers’ dogs.

 

Claim your business page

Many of your prospective customers will be turning to online listings from local businesses to find dog walking services in your area. So, make sure you’re included on as many of those listings sites as possible – many of them will offer a free listing for your business page, so claim it.

 

Partnerships

Keep a keen eye open for any opportunity to partner with existing businesses and organisations in your area. These might include contacts with your local animal shelter, pet shops, dog food and accessories suppliers, or organisations offering pet therapy to local care homes, hospitals, and hospices.

 

Summary

Your start-up costs for a dog walking business are likely to be minimal. (You may wish to read our How to start a dog walking business blog for more information). However, you can splash out on marketing the enterprise so that you are making the most of your presence in the market, capturing vital clientele, and growing your business to that all-important profitable bottom line.

Get Dog Walking Insurance from Protectivity

 

 

*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date. 

Last updated by

Bee Ingram Image

Bee Ingram

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

For the small businesses we support, insurance and financial protection can sometimes seem complicated, especially when getting started. That’s why our content is designed to be clear and practical—providing helpful guidance and ensuring our customers not only find the specialist cover they require but are confident it will do the job they need.

 

 

Recent Blogs

How to become a locksmith Image

Trades

How to become a locksmith

Have you ever locked yourself out of your home and wished you had the skills to save the day? Rescuing customers

Protect your tools as van break-ins surge Image

Trades

Protect your tools as van break-ins surge

For many tradespeople, a van is more than just a vehicle, it’s a mobile workshop and an essential part of runni

How to hire an apprentice to learn a trade Image

Trades

How to hire an apprentice to learn a trade

If you're a sole trader, self-employed or run a small business in the trades industry, you may have considered hi

Contractor vs Subcontractor: Understanding the Key Differences for UK Tradespeople Image

Trades

Contractor vs Subcontractor: Understanding the Key Differences for UK Tradespeople

When working in the UK’s trades industry, you’ll often come across the terms “contractor” and “subcontr

Weighing up raising prices for your small business Image

Business

Weighing up raising prices for your small business

There’s been a lot of discussion about raising prices in recent weeks, and you might be wondering whether this

How much can a locksmith earn in the UK? Image

Business

How much can a locksmith earn in the UK?

Locksmithing might not be the first profession that comes to mind when thinking about lucrative careers, but it

How to become an electrician in the UK Image

Business

How to become an electrician in the UK

So, you’re thinking about becoming an electrician? A great choice! Whether you’re fresh out of school and pla

What happens if you miss the tax return deadline? Image

Laws, rules and regulations

What happens if you miss the tax return deadline?

With four weeks to go before the deadline, HMRC have announced that 5.4 million taxpayers still need to complete

Adapt your sports club for long-term survival Image

Personal Trainer

Adapt your sports club for long-term survival

Sports clubs play a vital role in fostering community, improving wellbeing, and providing opportunities for peopl

10 popular dog grooming trends Image

Pet Business

10 popular dog grooming trends

Dog grooming has evolved far beyond the basics of a quick wash and trim. It’s now a vibrant mix of artistry, in

Simply find the insurance you need.