7 Dog Business Ideas You Can Start with Minimal Investment

Don’t let funding hold you back from starting your dream business. Start as a side hustle. Make the first step, you only need one client. Read below for some dog business ideas that you can start now.

1.  Dog walker. Dog walking lets you be outside in nature. You get paid to get your steps in and be around pups all day. Sounds like a dream!

 Things to consider:

· Monthly insurance is usually $11. 

· The fee to start on dog walking apps such as Rover or Wag is typically around $50. 

· Bypass the apps and check with neighbors, family, and friends with fur babies.

· Post on Facebook and NextDoor apps to find clients.

· The average fee for a 30-minute walk is between $20 and $30 depending on your location. Do some research first to see what others are charging in your state or city.

· Click here for a full guide on becoming a dog walker.

2. Dog sitter. Dog sitting fees and theprocess to start are similar to dog walking but it is a little more involved. You are responsible for caring for dogs typically multiple days in a row and overnight. You will be required to feed the dog and administer any medication or care for special needs.

Things to consider:

· Monthly insurance is typically $11 but rates may vary depending on location.

· The fee to start on dog-sitting apps like Rover or Wag is $50.       

· You can charge $50-$60 per night. Do a little research in your area to determine pricing.

· Decide whether you will board in your own home or at the home of the dog. Or if possible offer either option.

· Click here for the easy steps to become a dog sitter.

3. Making dog treats. Do you have a love of baking? And a love of making our furry friends happy? Dog treats may be a great dog business idea for you.

Things to consider:

· Be sure to list all ingredients.

· Package them in a way that stands out.

· Sell at a farmer’s market. The fees for a farmer’s market will vary.

· Go to local stores and arrange to stock your dog treats.

· Sell online through Etsy. Be aware Etsy will charge a listing fee.

· Create a website to sell dog treats.

· Click here for a full guide on starting a dog treat business.

4. Pet waste removal. Not the most glamorous dog business idea but necessary and potentially lucrative.

Things to consider:

· Insurance typically is around $14/month

· Check with your state or town to register and obtain an EIN (employer identification number).

· Supplies to start: scooper and trash bags.

· Many businesses also offer deodorizing services.

· Send a text when you are on your way.

· Offer one-time cleanups or weekly.

· The weekly fee you can charge is around $20.

· Market to homes, condos, hotels, and parks.

· Find customers on town or dog Facebook pages.

5. Print-on-demand dog items on Etsy. This can include dog clothes, leashes, and collars printed with your own cute sayings or artwork. Be sure to also include tees for the humans.

Things to consider:

· There is a charge when you list and sell.  

· Many print-on-demand suppliers only charge a fee when you sell.

· Check Etsy and the print-on-demand companies for fees that may be charged once your product sells.

· Click here for 10 items to sell on Etsy.

6. Custom dog products such as artwork or dog houses. If you have special talent such as artwork or carpentry skills this may be a fit for you.

Things to consider:

· Custom products allow you to get paid first and then get to work on the creation.

· Some costs to consider are Etsy’s listing fee or if you decide to start your own website there may be applicable fees.

· Facebook Marketplace is also an option to locate clients.

7. Dog photography. Do you have a knack for getting fun shots from pets that people will love?

Things to consider:

· A camera, some props, and treats are all you need to start.  

· If you are on a budget you can start with the camera on your phone. Most camera phones take amazing photos. The hardest part of this career is shooting the dog at the right moment.  

· Market yourself on Facebook and showcase your skills on Instagram.

· Click here for a full guide on becoming a dog photographer.

Work with the budget you have. There are so many dog business ideas for our dog lovers out there. Shouldn’t we enjoy our work?