How to Start a Dog Walking Business in the UK? [7 Steps Guide]

16 April, 2025 · null min read

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Discover how to start a dog walking business in the UK, from legal steps and insurance to pricing, marketing, and growing your client base.

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Why start a dog walking business in the UK? 4 Key benefits
7 Steps to follow if you want to start a dog walking business
Day-to-day operations: Walkies, admin, and everything in between
How to scale your business
Challenges to consider (and overcome)
What can ANNA do for you?

A dog walking business in the UK can be both personally fulfilling and financially rewarding.

As of recent statistics, around 28% of UK households own at least one dog, meaning there are millions of potential canine clients ready to be walked, fed, and fussed over.

This blog post will walk (pun intended) you through everything you need to know: from business plans and insurance to marketing tips and ways to outsmart an overly enthusiastic Spaniel.

Why start a dog walking business in the UK? 4 Key benefits

1. High demand

With more than a quarter of UK homes sporting at least one dog, there’s a vast and growing market for dog walking services.

Busy professionals, elderly dog owners, or families juggling responsibilities often need help making sure their fur babies get the exercise and attention they deserve.

2. Low startup costs

Unlike opening a boutique pet hotel or grooming salon (both of which can cost a small fortune), dog walking is refreshingly cost-friendly.

A few essentials, like leads, harnesses, poop bags, and a sturdy pair of walking shoes can get you started without breaking the bank.

In other words, if you’ve got pockets deep enough for dog treats, you’re on your way.

3. Flexible work

Fancy a lie-in on Mondays? Want to handle afternoon pick-ups at the local school for your own kids? With dog walking, you set the schedule.

Of course, being too laid back might lose you clients if you’re not reliable, but that’s the beauty of running your own show: you can find the perfect balance that suits your lifestyle.

4. Health benefits

Dog walking is not just for the dogs – it’s fantastic for humans, too.

Fresh air, regular exercise, and adorable furry companionship are all part and parcel of the job. Wave goodbye to your sedentary office life, and say hello to improved mood, daily cardio, and that smug feeling when you surpass your step-count goals before lunchtime.

7 Steps to follow if you want to start a dog walking business

1. Conduct thorough market research

Before you start printing flyers and practicing your best “walkies!” voice, do a bit of digging to see if there’s enough demand in your local area.

Identify your target audience: Are you focusing on time-poor professionals in city centres or retirees living in quieter suburbs? Perhaps you’re near a university campus bustling with students who have dogs tucked away in cramped flats. Tailor your services and prices to your most likely clients.
Spy on your competitors (legally, please): Check out local dog walkers’ websites, social media pages, and pricing structures. If everyone in your area charges around £15 an hour, you’ll want to remain competitive. Also, note any additional services they offer, like dog grooming or house-sitting.
Evaluate local demand: Wander through your neighbourhood parks at different times of the day – how many dog walkers do you see? Are there more dogs than people? Talk with local owners and gauge their interest in professional walking services. (Be prepared for a few polite shrugs or remarks about the “lovely weather” if you approach them in the rain.)

2. Create a solid business plan

Writing a business plan might sound a bit too corporate for a dog walking business, but it’s essential for setting clear goals and staying on track.

Let’s keep it straightforward and use the SMART framework:

Specific: “I want to sign up 10 regular clients within the first three months.”
Measurable: Track metrics like revenue per month, number of daily walks, and client retention rates.
Achievable: Given your resources (time, transport, stamina for bounding Labradors), set realistic goals.
Realistic: If the average walker can comfortably manage 4–5 dogs per day, don’t aim for 25 dogs daily unless you plan to hire a small army of dog-walking minions.
Time-bound: Set deadlines. For example, aim to break even within six months or expand your service area by the one-year mark.

Think about potential growth, too. Perhaps you’d like to add a pet-sitting service or even branch out into dog training down the line. Jot down any initial ideas – it’s easier to scale if you’ve planned for it from day one.

3. Register your business & mind the legal bits

Choose a business structure

Sole trader: Ideal if you’re starting small, going solo, and don’t want complicated paperwork. You and the business are legally the same entity, meaning you’re personally responsible for any debts and taxes.
Limited company: If you have visions of expanding (and eventually ruling a mini dog-walking empire), this might be the way to go. It offers liability protection but involves more administrative work and costs.

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Check local council regulations

Some councils have specific bylaws about how many dogs you can walk at once or rules for using public parks. While not typically requiring an official “dog walking license,” you may need permission or permits for certain green spaces.

Always double-check to avoid pesky fines.

Legal requirements

Collars with owner’s details: UK law states that dogs in public must wear collars displaying the owner’s name and address. This also helps you if a dog pulls a Houdini act and slips away.
Cleaning up: Yes, the dreaded “poop scoop.” Failing to clean up after your four-legged friends can result in fines up to £1,000. Always carry enough bags to avoid any humiliating rummaging-around-in-pockets moment.
Criminal record check (DBS): If you’ll be entering clients’ homes to collect dogs, many owners will want reassurance that you’re trustworthy. A DBS check is a solid way to build that trust.
Controlling dogs in public spaces: Some public areas (like playgrounds or certain beaches) have rules about keeping dogs on leashes. Know the local restrictions so you can keep the peace (and avoid scowls from families picnicking on the lawn).

4. Insurance: Don’t walk without it

No, we’re not talking about staying under an umbrella. We’re talking about public liability insurance, which is arguably the most critical piece of paperwork you’ll need.

Public liability insurance: Protects you if a dog in your care causes an accident or injury. For example, if a mischievous terrier decides to chase a cyclist who then topples over, you’ll be relieved to have coverage.
Pet insurance: Not always mandatory, but it can cover vet fees if a dog gets injured on your watch. One broken paw can lead to a very large bill, so insurance provides peace of mind (and potential savings).

Annual insurance could cost anywhere from £80 to £150, which is a small price to pay considering the average vet bill for a broken bone can exceed £1,000.

5. Gather your equipment

Think of this as your “Dog Walker Starter Pack.” You want to look (and be) the part:

Leads & harnesses: While many owners will provide their own, it’s wise to have spares. Some dogs are master escape artists and might slip out of ill-fitting gear.
Poop bags (loads of them): You can never have too many. Store them in your car, pockets, backpack – anywhere you can, because you’ll need them daily.
Dog First Aid kit: Accidents happen, especially when curious pups explore brambles or wrestle with each other. Having bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tick removers can be a lifesaver (literally).
Transport (optional): If you plan on picking up dogs from multiple locations, a reliable car or van is helpful. Some walkers even brand their vehicles with logos or phone numbers – instant mobile advertising!
Branded clothing (optional, but fun): A simple T-shirt with your logo says, “Yes, I’m a pro. Please don’t confuse me with a random person who just happens to love dogs.” It also sets you apart and looks snazzy in social media photos.

6. Set up your pricing strategy

Determining how much to charge can feel a bit awkward, but it’s essential:

Typical UK rates: Around £15–£17 per hour for one dog, though Londoners or city dwellers might command (or need to charge) higher rates, given the cost of living.
Discounts for multiple dogs: Offer savings if a client wants you to walk two or three dogs from the same household. This can encourage bulk bookings.
Package deals & loyalty programs: Maybe a discount after ten walks or a monthly subscription for regular clients. Everyone loves a good bargain!

When setting rates, factor in your expenses: insurance, transport costs, equipment, and, of course, your time. The goal is to be competitive without undervaluing your service.

7. Market your dog walking business

Let’s be honest: while your clients may bark your praises to fellow canines, you’ll need a more human-friendly approach to spread the word.

Create a website

Even a simple, single-page website can showcase your services, prices, and contact details. Include adorable photos of your canine clients (with permission!) and, if possible, a booking system or contact form.

Platforms like Wix or WordPress can help you whip one up without needing a degree in IT.

Don’t overlook social media presence

Take advantage of Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok.

Post daily snaps or short videos of happy dogs out for walks (just be sure you have the owner’s permission).

Throw in some dog-walking tips, safety advice, and silly moments – people love that. If you’re feeling fancy, boost posts with targeted ads to reach locals.

Use local advertising

The traditional route still works wonders:

Flyers and posters: Pin them up at vets, pet shops, community centres, and even the local pub if it’s dog-friendly.
Business cards: Keep a stack in your wallet to hand out whenever someone says, “I have a dog, you know…”
Partnerships: Team up with local pet stores. They might recommend your services to their customers, and you can do the same for them.
Word-of-mouth: If you offer stellar service, people will talk. Encourage happy clients to leave reviews on Google and social media. Nothing beats an enthusiastic recommendation from a delighted dog owner.

Day-to-day operations: Walkies, admin, and everything in between

So, what does a typical day look like for a UK dog walker? Hint: it’s not all wagging tails and sunshine.

Meet & greet new clients: Before your first official walk, schedule an informal chat to understand the dog’s personality, any medical conditions, or training quirks. This is also a good time to discuss pickup arrangements and home access if needed.
Walking schedule: Keep an organised calendar. You don’t want to book Mrs. Smith’s cocker spaniel at 9 a.m. when you’re meant to collect Mr. Brown’s pug across town. Apps like Google Calendar or dedicated pet-sitting software help keep you on track.
Safety protocols: Aim to walk no more than four dogs at a time (check local guidelines). Keep them on leads when near roads and in any areas that require it by law. Make sure your group is well-matched in terms of size and energy level – an energetic Husky might unintentionally bowl over an arthritic Dachshund.
Record-keeping: Jot down when and where you walked, plus any relevant notes (“Fido refused to walk past the scary bin!”). This information is handy for owners, especially if they like updates or if there’s a dispute later.
Communication with owners: Send occasional updates or photos because many people love seeing their dogs happily trotting along. It builds trust and shows you care.

How to scale your business

If you find yourself with more walk requests than you can handle, consider expanding:

Hire staff or subcontractors: This means more coordination, but also greater earning potential. Ensure that anyone you bring on board is reliable, dog-savvy, and (ideally) as enthusiastic as you are.
Add services: Pet sitting, puppy visits, dog training sessions, or even grooming can boost your income and attract diverse clients.
Join professional groups: Associations like NarpsUK (National Association of Pet Sitters & Dog Walkers) provide credibility, networking opportunities, and helpful resources. You might also find local dog walker collectives or meetups.

Challenges to consider (and overcome)

No job is perfect, and dog walking has its fair share of potential hiccups:

1. Unpredictable weather: The UK climate can be delightfully chaotic. From relentless rain to sudden heatwaves – be prepared with waterproof gear and plenty of water for your canine companions.

2. Difficult dogs: Some may be aggressive or anxious, requiring specialised handling. If you’re not comfortable with a particular dog, don’t risk harm to yourself or others. Honesty with owners is vital.

3. Time management: Coordinating multiple clients, especially in different postcodes, can feel like juggling biscuits while being chased by a Jack Russell. Planning and organisation are key.

4. Holiday rush: During half-terms, bank holidays, or Christmas breaks, demand may skyrocket. Either relish the boost in income or have a cut-off point if you value your sanity.

What can ANNA do for you?

Starting a dog walking business in the UK can be a brilliant move – both financially and in terms of job satisfaction – for anyone who adores dogs (and doesn’t mind a bit of mud, slobber, and drizzle).

ANNA is the clever all-in-one business account that helps you manage money, invoicing, expenses, bookkeeping, and taxes – all from one app.