How to Get Experience with Dog Walking and Dog Training
If you're thinking about starting a dog walking business, most likely you've already got a dog. But
just because you and your dog enjoy going for walks doesn't mean that you're going to be a terrific dog walker
your first day out. Some dogs are difficult, and some owners are even more difficult. Here's how to get some
experience with both.
Volunteer at an Animal Shelter
This is a terrific way to learn a ton about how to handle dogs, especially difficult dogs. You'll also be introduced
to the dog community in your town and become a known entity. As these people come to know you and trust you and
see how well you handle the dogs, you'll start to build a good reputation that you can translate into clients later - or maybe
as soon as next week.
Offer Free Services
Volunteer for your friends, for people at your current job, or even second-hand acquaintances from other spheres of your life (like
church and school). Let them know what you're up to - that you want to start a dog walking business and you're looking to get
some experience with new dogs and new people. You will get more walks if you've already got your dog walking insurance set up.
Don't be afriad to ask these freebie clients for references. The point of all this is to build your skills, but also your
reputation. Part of building your reputation is having a list of six clients you can have new clients call to confirm that you're
not going to steal from them, lose their dog, not show up when you say you will, or cheat them in any way.
Get Some Training As a Dog Trainer
You don't need to become a full-blown certified dog trainer to walk dogs, but having the basics down with be an
invaluable aid to your business. Owners love knowing that their dogs aren't just getting exercise, they're getting
some rudimentary manners from you, too.
You can take classes and study as if you wanted to be a dog trainer, or you can get hands-on experience by being a helper at dog
training classes. Check out local dog training and dog daycare facilities and see if they offer classes. Offer your assistance as a class helper for
a low hourly rate. If they don't bite, offer to hlp for free. Eight weeks later, when the class is done, every dog owner in the class
will know you and see you as an authority figure - you'll definitely get a few clients from each class.
Get a Jog as a Dog Walker
Duh, right? Well, do be careful here. You'd do well not to encroach on your past employer's dog walking turf. If you're an honest person
and you might take on dog walking clients in the same area as your employer, there's going to be some friction there for you personally,
and its possible you might make an enemy when you launch your business. That's not a good way to start out.
Honesty really is the best policy, so be upfront if you're interviewing for dog walking jobs. If at all possible, be prepared to
travel a good distance to your first dog walking job. If its clear that you're not going to be stealing clients from a prospective
boss, they might take you under their wing and really show you how to be successful.
MORE DOG WALKING ARTICLES:
How to Start a Dog Walking Business
How to Write a Dog Walking Business Plan
Dog Walking for Children and Teens
Dog Walking Services: Dogs' Day Out
Be the Best Dog Walker in Your Town
How to Handle Aggressive Dogs
How to Get a Dog Walking Job
Dog Walking Franchises
Additional Dog Services to Offer
Walking Puppies
How to Advertise and Promote a Dog Walking Business
How to Get Insurance for Your Dog Walking Business
How to Get Experience with Dog Walking and Dog Training
Pricing Your Dog Walking Services
Would You Make a Good Dog Walker? 5 Questions to Ask Yourself to Find Out
How To Interview Clients: The Owners and Their Dogs
Dog Training Basics Every Dog Walker Must Know: Dog Walkers' Obedience Training
Dog Walking Safety Tips
Dog First Aid
Dog Walking Etiquette
Dog Walking Flyers
Dog Walking Business Names
How to Stop a Dog Fight
Dog Walking Business Cards
Dog Walking Rates
Dog Walking Tips
Reviews of Dog Walking Business Books
Dog Walking Forms