When I first started walking dogs, I thought it would be simple: leash up, hit the trails, and enjoy the company of a four-legged friend—with some training sprinkled in. But running a professional dog walking business—especially one focused on reactive dogs—is a whole different story. Looking back, there are a few things I wish someone had told me before I started. If you’re thinking about starting your own dog walking business (or are in the early days), these lessons might save you some stress.

1. Your Schedule Can Make or Break You

At first, I said “yes” to every client and ended up running all over town, completely burned out. I learned that it’s okay to set boundaries—grouping clients by location, setting firm hours, and leaving buffer time between walks. A well-structured schedule not only keeps you sane, but also allows you to see more pets without wasting your whole day driving around.

2. Good Gear is an Investment, Not an Extra

Professional dog walking requires reliable, durable gear. Think secure harnesses with safety clips, waist belts for hands-free control, slip leads, and a solid first aid kit.

Don’t forget about yourself either: bug spray, a brimmed hat, a sturdy backpack, water, hiking boots, extra socks (trust me, your feet will get wet), rain gear, and sunscreen all live in my cargo area.

Be proactive and check your supplies daily. I learned the hard way when both a dog and I were stung by wasps—and I realized I didn’t have Benadryl on hand. Not the best plan! Now I always double-check before heading out.

And one more thing: every pet professional should be certified in Dog & Cat First Aid and CPR. It’s an investment in safety and credibility.

3. Clear Communication Builds Trust

I used to think clients just wanted a quick walk and a happy pup—but what they really want is peace of mind. Now I send a short update after each walk with a photo and a note about how things went.

I also go further when needed: offering behavior plans, training sheets, or tips to help with issues their dog may be struggling with. On walks and hikes, I continue reinforcing training, and I make sure to provide detailed reports, photos, and even videos of the tricks or skills we’re working on. That level of communication has been a game changer for building long-term trust.

4. Not Every Client is Your Client

This was a tough lesson. Some dogs weren’t in my wheelhouse, and some owners weren’t aligned with my style or boundaries. Saying “no” (or referring them to someone else) is better than stretching yourself too thin.

When you focus on your niche—for me, reactive dogs and enrichment hikes—you attract the clients who really value what you do. Over time, I’ve built strong, lasting relationships with the right clients and their pets. That’s what I always wanted for my business. Know your goals, stick to your style, and trust that the right clients will find you.

5. You’re Running a Business, Not Just Walking Dogs

Walking dogs is the fun part—but behind the scenes there’s scheduling, invoicing, marketing, insurance, and taxes. I didn’t realize how much time I’d spend on the “business” side.

Once I started treating my business like a business—setting up systems, contracts, and clear policies—things became smoother and more professional. Clients notice those details too; I’ve even had people say my business structure factored into their hiring decision.

A few recommendations:

• Hire a good small business accountant.
• Join professional organizations like Pet Sitters International.
• Invest in insurance and make sure you’re operating legally in your area.
• Use technology to your advantage. For me, the PetPocketbook app has been a lifesaver for keeping everything organized and client-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Dog walking is incredibly rewarding, but it’s not just a side hustle you can wing—it’s a real profession. If you’re starting out, I hope these lessons give you a head start. And if you’re already in the thick of it, maybe they’ll remind you that you’re not alone in learning along the way.

Have you made changes to your business since you started—or are there things you wish you’d known earlier? Share your experience in the comments! And if you’re new to this field, feel free to ask me any questions about getting started.