How to become a dog walker 

What will I do if I become a dog walker?

When you become a dog walker, your daily routine will revolve around providing care and attention to dogs. You will be able to offer a variety of services, such as:

• Private dog walking service for a single dog.
• Group dog walking for a pack of dogs.
• Outing, which usually takes place in a rural area and involves run and play while the dog is off-lead.

Becoming a dog walker is full of interesting things. It is not just a job. It is an adventure that you will enjoy every day. You will have fun moments and heart-warming experiences when you start walking dogs. From happy dogs to beautiful outdoor walks, there are lots of exciting things that you will experience. This job lets you enjoy the company of dogs and the simple joys of being their trusted friend.

These are some of the things that you will be doing as a dog walker:

• Take dogs on walks and ensure they get enough exercise.
• Plan safe routes for the dogs and yourself.
• Use leashes and ensure the dogs don’t get into dangerous situations.
• Play with dogs.
• Introduce them to other dogs when it is safe to do so to help them build social skills.
• Provide basic training commands like sit and stay. This helps them become well-behaved companions.
• Monitor their health and wellbeing.
• Report any concerns involving their health and safety to their owners.
• Clean up after the walk and dispose of rubbish properly.
• Maintain friendly communication with pet owners and provide updates regarding their behaviour and activities.
• Handle administrative tasks such as scheduling dog walks, billing and marketing your services.

Becoming a dog walker in the UK can be a fulfilling and enjoyable career. It allows you to combine your affection for animals and help pet owners ensure their dogs are happy and healthy.

Do I need specific qualifications to start a dog walking business?

In the UK, you don’t need fancy degrees to become a dog walker. However, there are a few things that you must know. To start your own dog walking business, you must love dogs and understand their needs. You should be physically fit and reliable. You should also be good at talking to people.

It can be beneficial if you have certifications in things like pet care. This will help you understand what to do if the dog gets hurt and requires first aid. Having excellent knowledge of animal care will make dog owners trust you more.

In the UK, some dog owners will require dog walkers to have specific qualifications before they are hired. These qualifications can make you more trustworthy, so considering getting them is a good idea.

Many schools and colleges in the UK offer dog training programs and certifications specially designed for aspiring dog walkers. These courses provide valuable knowledge and hands-on experience, helping individuals understand the ins and outs of dog walking.

If you want to provide boarding for dogs or daycare services, you will need a qualification to meet the DEFRA Animal Activity Licencing requirements. This regulatory body governs businesses and individuals involved in certain animal-related activities. It is designed to ensure the welfare and well-being of animals involved in commercial activities.

When you undertake dog walking and pet care programs, you will learn essential skills such as dog behaviour, first aid, etc. Obtaining certifications will equip you with the expertise you need in this field and enhance your credibility in the eyes of potential clients. So, if you are considering a career as a dog walker, explore training opportunities and start your journey towards running a successful dog walking business in the UK.

What skills are needed to become a professional pet walker?

If you are looking to become a professional dog walker in the UK, you must possess a specific set of skills. These skills are centred around providing the best possible support and care to animals. In fact, these essential skills go beyond mere affection for pets. They encompass a range of capabilities that will allow you to meet the diverse needs of different types of dogs.

So, let’s take a look at the key skills necessary to work as a dog walker.

• The ability to understand dog behaviour.
• Being physically fit and active.
• Excellent communication skills with dogs as well as their owners.
• Reliability and punctuality.
• The ability to think quickly and handle unexpected situations with ease.
• Knowledge of dog first aid.
• Understanding and patience.
• The ability to pay attention to detail.
• Business skills such as scheduling dog walks and managing finances.

Once you master these essential skills, you will become a capable dog walker. You will be able to provide care for the dogs and ensure their safety and well-being. You will become a trusted companion for your furry clients.

What is the average salary of a reliable dog walker?

The average salary of a dog walker in the UK can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and number of clients served. In this thriving profession, dog walkers can typically earn a reasonable income while doing what they love. It is a career that offers a great deal of flexibility. It allows individuals to set their rates and determine their own working hours.

As the demand for professional dog walking services continues to grow, so do the opportunities for financial success in the field. In the early stages of your dog walking career, you can expect to earn around £7 to £10 per hour. This often depends on factors like location and competition in your area.

Experienced dog walkers with a good client base may charge between £10 and £15 per hour. The average salary can be between £26,000 and £38,000 per year, depending on the level of experience, working hours, client base, etc.

Possible career progression of a dog walker

For those individuals who are passionate about working with dogs, the career progression of a dog walker in the UK can offer several exciting avenues. Starting as a dog walker, you can gain valuable experience and build a strong reputation for your services. With time and dedication, you may expand your business and take on additional staff. Additionally, you can branch out into related pet services, including pet sitting, dog training and dog grooming services.

Obtaining certifications in these areas can further enhance your skills and credibility. You might also consider specialising in working with specific dog breeds. Addressing unique needs, such as senior dog care or working with rescue dogs, are other things that you might be able to do as you gain experience. With training and qualifications, you can set up a business and offer dog walking and pet sitting services.

Some professional dog owners consider starting their own pet care training schools or dog boarding kennels. You will be able to do this with the necessary qualifications. Ultimately, the career path for a dog walker in the UK is flexible and allows for growth and specialisation.

The typical work hours for a dog walker in the UK

A dog walker’s working hours can be pretty flexible and offer a degree of independence. Typically, the workday starts in the morning and runs until the early afternoon. The exact hours are usually determined by the dog walker’s schedule and the needs of their clients. It is common for dog walkers to work on weekdays, as many pet owners require assistance while they are at work.

However, some also offer weekend or evening services to accommodate those with varied schedules. The number of hours they work can vary widely. Part-time dog walkers might work for a few hours, and full-time professionals may spend most of their day tending to the needs of their canine clients. This flexibility in working hours allows individuals to balance their work with other commitments. It also allows them to enjoy the outdoors while caring for dogs.

Work environment and working conditions of a dog walker

The working environment of a dog walker is one of the most appealing aspects of this profession. Dog walkers spend the majority of their working hours outdoors. This allows them to enjoy fresh air and natural surroundings. They navigate parks, woodland areas and urban neighbourhoods and experience a change of scenery with each client’s location.

It is this variety of surroundings that keeps the job engaging. It provides dogs with diverse walks that are fun and enjoyable. Sometimes, dog walkers may have to work through rain, wind, and occasional snow. They must be prepared for these weather conditions while ensuring that their canine clients receive the exercise they need.

The working conditions for dog walkers are predominantly positive. The profession offers the opportunity for independence. Dog walkers often have control over their schedules and client base. This flexibility is attractive for those who prefer a self-employed or freelance career.

The job also involves being physically active for extended periods. Dog walkers may have to walk several miles a day and handle dogs of various sizes and temperaments.

The benefits of having dog walking insurance

Although dog walking insurance is not a legal requirement in the UK, it is highly advisable and beneficial for professional dog walkers. This type of insurance, often referred to as pet business insurance, provides crucial protection in the event of unexpected incidents or accidents while working with dogs. It covers scenarios such as injuries, dog bites and damage to third-party property.

The benefits of having dog walking insurance are numerous. It includes the following:

• Covers costs related to injuries, accidents, or damage caused by dogs while in your care.
• Safeguards your financial well-being by covering potential liability costs such as legal fees and compensation to affected parties.
• Helps cover costs if the dog gets stolen or lost.
• Helps boost reputation and attract more business.
• Gives peace of mind so dog walkers can focus on their work without worrying about potential financial liabilities.
• Helps dog walking businesses to continue in case of accidents.
• Helps demonstrate professionalism and that dog walkers are serious about their jobs.