How to Start a Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Business in 2025: 10 Easy Steps

If you’ve dreamed of turning your love for animals into a thriving business, there has never been a better time. With pet ownership at record highs and pet parents spending more than ever, 2025 offers a golden opportunity to launch your own pet sitting and dog walking business. Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to get you started—from research and planning to marketing and long-term success.

1. Research Your Local Market

Start by understanding your competition. Search “pet sitter near me” on Google and make a list of local businesses. Note what services they offer, how much they charge, and what makes them stand out. You can also check Facebook, Nextdoor, and local directories to see how other pet care providers position themselves.

Pro Tip

• Include not just pet sitters, but also boarding facilities, dog trainers, groomers, and pet boutiques.
• Identify how your business could complement theirs through referrals and partnerships.

2. Define Your Services

Once you’ve done your research, decide which services fit your area and lifestyle. In urban areas, midday dog walking may be ideal; in smaller towns, overnight pet sitting might be more in demand. You can expand later, but focus on one or two core services to start strong.

Examples of Services

• Dog walking (standard or adventure walks)
• Pet sitting (daily visits or overnight stays)
• Pet transportation

3. Write a Simple Business Plan

Your business plan doesn’t need to be complicated—just clear. Outline your mission, goals, target clients, and what problem your service will solve for them. Think about your long-term vision and break it into actionable steps. Even a few handwritten notes can serve as your roadmap.

Key Elements to Include

• Your mission and values
• Target audience and client pain points
• Short- and long-term business goals

4. Choose a Business Name and Become Legal

Check your state’s Division of Corporations website to make sure your business name is available. Avoid overused or cutesy names and pick something professional that appeals to local families.

Legal Setup

• Register as an LLC for liability protection.
• Get liability insurance—a must for anyone working with animals.
• Consider certifications such as Pet First Aid & CPR or Pet Sitter accreditation from PSI or NAPPS.

These steps build trust and show potential clients that you take professionalism seriously.

5. Build Your Brand Identity

Your brand is how people perceive your business. It includes your logo, colors, fonts, and the emotional tone of your messaging. Consistency is key—your website, social media, and printed materials should all align visually and emotionally.

Branding Tips

• Keep your design consistent across all platforms.
• Choose colors and fonts that appeal to your target clients.
• Start simple—affordable logos can be made on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.

6. Set Your Prices Confidently

Use your market research to understand average rates in your area, but don’t base your prices solely on competitors. Factor in your experience, quality of service, and operating costs. Underpricing leads to burnout, so charge what you’re worth.

Pricing Considerations

• Market averages for local competitors
• Your time, skill set, and business costs
• Fair but profitable margins

7. Create a Website and Social Media Presence

Build an online home for your business with a professional website and active social media pages. These will be your main tools for attracting new clients and proving credibility.

Essentials to Include

• Website with services, pricing, and contact information
• Facebook and Instagram pages for regular updates
• Google Business Profile for maps visibility and reviews

A well-optimized website helps you appear in local searches for “pet sitter near me” and sets you apart from hobbyists.

8. Use Scheduling and Management Software

Once clients start booking, you’ll need an organized system for scheduling, payments, and tracking visits. Time To Pet is one of the most popular platforms for pet sitters and dog walkers, providing GPS tracking, client communication, and automated invoicing—all in one place.

Tools like these help you stay professional, organized, and trustworthy as your client base grows.

9. Build Trust with Clients

Pet care is a relationship-based business. Excellent communication and reliability are essential. Always provide detailed updates and at least one photo after every visit, even if the client doesn’t ask for it. This transparency builds long-term trust and repeat business.

Trust-Building Tips

• Send real-time updates and photos during visits.
• Encourage satisfied clients to leave Google reviews.
• Ask for referrals from happy customers.

10. Launch and Market Your Business

With your foundation in place, start spreading the word. Marketing doesn’t have to be expensive—focus on building relationships and visibility within your community.

Low-Cost Marketing Ideas

• Partner with veterinarians, groomers, and local pet stores.
• Set up booths at local events or farmers’ markets.
• Wear branded shirts or add car magnets to advertise while you’re out.
• Engage with neighborhood groups and homeowner associations.

Lay your groundwork before heavy marketing—clients will come faster when your brand, systems, and trust are already strong.

Bonus Tips for Growth

• Get a separate business phone line for professionalism.
• Use clear contracts or terms of service to protect yourself and clients.
• Continue learning—watch videos, read blogs, and join pet care communities.

Final Thoughts

Starting a pet sitting and dog walking business in 2025 is an exciting opportunity for animal lovers ready to turn passion into profit. By researching your market, setting up legally, building a trustworthy brand, and using smart tools, you can create a sustainable business that grows year after year. Remember, this industry thrives on relationships, reliability, and care—when you show up with all three, success will follow.