These are just a few of the recent businesses I have seen on TikTok. Dog lovers are spending more and more time with their pups. And spending more money than ever. According to Forbes, in 2022, Americans spent $136.8 billion on their pets, up nearly 11% from 2021 ($123.6 billion). They are important family members and deserve to be treated like one! Watercolors & Whiskers in NYC This is a painting workshop with puppies. The programs promises to lower stress with both the painting and the interaction with the pups. Animals are brought in from local breeders and shelters. A portion of the proceeds also go to shelters. There is also one with pigs- how can you say no to that! Mutts & Martinis in St Petersburg, FL This is a dog friendly sports bar. There is a dog water park as well as a shaded play area. You can also take your dog inside the bar. I would love to see more establishments like this! Doggie Sweets in Long Branch, NJ Doggie Sweets hosts dog events such as birthday parties and events such as specific breed meet ups. They have a cafe as well as a food truck. They offer multiple packages to ensure your pup has the best birthday! Tales & Tails book cafe in Fredericksburg, VA This bookstore combines the love of books with their love of dogs. They have a dog friendly patio where you can order coffee and a book to enjoy. The best part is they also highlight dogs in need of a home! The Mobile Barkery in California (LA area) This is a food truck for dogs! Why shouldn't dogs have their own treat truck? Ice cream and cookies are just some of the products. You can find them at dog parks and dog friendly beaches. Soft Paws in Southport, UK It's called soft play for dogs. You can book 30 minutes sessions for you and your dog. Ball pits, tunnels, and just a ton of fun! Everything is soft and padded- no hard landings for your pup. Please open one in the US! 4 Paws Kingdom Campground in Rutherfordton, NC Camping has gone to the dogs! Swimming pond, trails, and multiple off leash areas for your dog to explore. Stop in the bathhouse to pamper your pup. There is hook up for your RV or rent one of the site's RVs or cabins for your stay. Cuppa Pug multiple locations in the UK and US (and hopefully more soon) I love a pug so this one immediately caught my attention! This cafe has pugs available to snuggle with. Mornings are so much better when you can have your coffee with a side of pug. The best part is there are pugs available for adoption. I love this so much because what a great way to potentially make a love connection! RetrievAir with multiple hubs Fly with your dog without the stress. If your dog is 40 lbs. or under they can sit on your lap for the whole duration of the flight. Over 40 lbs. they will require a seat next to you. Water and treats will be served! Hope these businesses give you all some ideas of your own. Remember pet owners spend a ridiculous amount of money on their animals- as they should!

Are you on vacation without your dog and need that dopamine hit of love? Some hotels either have a dog ambassador to greet guests or partner with dog rescues to provide that much-needed and missed love. Some rescues even allow you to take a pup in need of a home on a hike and maybe form a LOVE CONNECTION. These hotels are also all dog friendly in case you will be traveling with your favorite companion. 1-The first we are going to discuss is Montage Palmetto Bluff , located in Bluffton, SC. They have a Canine Ambassador program. The hotel states that the Canine Ambassadors’ role is to bring joy to all of our guests with interactive meet and greets. The newest members are Finch, a Golden Retriever, and Bodie, a Miniature Sheepadoodle. They join a Labrador-mix named Cauley. Cauley is a rescue from a local shelter and yes- we love that! With three dogs, there will be lots of love to go around! Click here to check rates and book 2- Waldorf Astoria Park City in Park City, UT, partners with Nuzzles & Co. This is a local non-profit and no-kill rescue. This rescue offers puppy snuggle sessions at the hotel. Maybe you can find your soul pup here. If not, you can still help socialize pups in need and have them be ready for their forever homes. Click here to check rates and book   3- Aloft Hotels have several locations and highlights dogs in need on their Instagram. Hotels like Aloft Hotels have several locations that have adoptable dogs to meet and greet with guests, and some locations even foster. The Asheville location recently added a new foster to their team. Click here to check rates 4- St. Regis Aspen in Aspen, Colorado has had programs that allow guests to interact with and adopt shelter animals.  They also have a permanent pup resident. Kitty the Bernese Mountain Dog is there to welcome you and enhance your stay and of course has his own Insta @ kittythebernese because why not? Click here for rates 5-Jack at Surfjack Hotel & Swimclub in Waikiki, Hawaii, has his own Instagram @JacktheHotelDog. Jack is a bulldog available for meet and greets. Every Tuesday, Jack is available at their Swim Club to meet the guests. Seems impossible to resist that face! Click here for rates 6-If visiting The Park on Main in Highlands, NC, you will be greeted by Mr. Pickles, a black Scottish Terrier. The hotel partners with the  Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society  to foster pets and help them get adopted into families. There is a foster dog at the front desk to properly greet you. Click here for rates 7- The Inn by the Sea in Elizabeth, Maine partners with a rescue- the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland. A shelter dog will typically greet you in the lobby. On average, the inn hosts 45 foster dogs each year. They live at the inn, and the staff feed and care for the dogs as they socialize with the guests. These interactions have proven successful. 145 dogs have found permanent homes with guests- which is amazing! It gives people ample time to get to know these pups, needing a home. Click here for rates 8- Utah’s Red Mountain Resort in Ivins, Utah, offers The Pound Puppy Hike. They partner with the Ivins City No-Kill Animal Shelter.  Each guest can take a pup in need on a scenic hike. You get the joy of spending time with the pup and they get to be exercised and socialized. The Pound Puppy Hike sounds like a great experience to form a love connection! Click here for rates 9- The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch in Avon, CO has a special ambassador. Scout is a Bernese Mountain dog. He is there to bring joy to guests and staff. Scout also has his own insta-@ bachelorgulchbernese . Follow for cuteness! Click here for rates 10- Bobby Hotel in Nashville, TN, is currently looking for an ambassador. They have a program called the Dog-in-Residence Program. They first adopt a dog from Bonaparte's Retreat. Then they spend a year training the pup to donate to a veteran in need. That's an amazing contribution! Click here for rates 11-Georgie at the Fairmont DC in Washington DC greets guests all day as they arrive. Then goes home at night with the general manager. It appears to just be a part-time job for Georgie. Georgie is a beautiful yellow lab waiting to meet you. Click here for rates Going on vacay without our pup can be a little sad as our favorite family member is missing. Or maybe you don’t have a dog but enjoy the company. These hotels are exactly where we need to stay! Dog Friendly Hotels to Travel with your Favorite Companion Dog Friendly Travel: 5 Places to Visit with your Dog

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you click on a link and make a purchase. There is no additional cost to you. Pride accessories for your dog June is the month to celebrate Pride! Your dog wants to be part of the celebrations. And why shouldn't they, since the pups make the cutest models? We've put together a list of some of the cutest rainbow accessories. The rainbow tutu will turn any princess pup into a fashionista! Pride bandana Click here to shop this bandana Click here to shop Click here to shop Click here to shop rainbow paw print popsocket click here to shop Click here to shop Happy Pride month and keep the rainbows going all year long!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links at no additional cost to you. Duck themed dog accessories Some pups make the perfect fashionistas! PJs, sweaters, dresses, you name it, and our dogs need it. Ducks are the cutest aesthetic.  Try and not smile if you see a dog in duck pajamas.  I think it’s impossible!  Gift your dog a duck toy that quacks or maybe just a cute button down. Either way, the dogs in your neighborhood will be jelly!   Browse through these adorable duck-themed dog items to treat your dog right. Yellow duck dog toy that squeaks Shop here Yellow duck pjs for dogs Shop here Duck collar and bow tie set for pups Shop here Duck button-down shirt for dogs Shop here Duck printed cooling mat for dogs and cats Shop here

Have you been wanting to take your best friend on an unforgettable trip? More and more cities are catering to the dogs! Let’s normalize dog friendly travel. Below are 5 places to give your pooch a weekend away. They deserve to unwind and explore. You’ll both walk, sniff, eat, drink, and relax! Burlington, VT NYC Washington DC Carmel, CA Colorado Springs, CO Let’s start with beautiful Burlington, Vermont , and surrounding areas. The best time to take your dog to Vermont is late spring until fall. Of course, you can visit in the winter but it will be more difficult navigating the snow and cold weather with your pup. Here are all the things you can do with your four-legged friend during your time in Vermont: Church Street Marketplace is an outdoor market in downtown Burlington with plenty of shops and dining options. The restaurants have outdoor patios that are dog-friendly, and many of the shops allow dogs inside. Lake Champlain offers picturesque paths and trails to hike with your dog. Cosmic Grind and Brio Coffee both allow dogs inside. Shelbourne Vineyard in Shelburne Vermont is a 20-minute drive from Burlington and dog-friendly even in the tasting room.  Relaxing with your dog and a glass of wine sounds like the best kind of day. Many breweries in Vermont allow dogs outside on the patios.  Queen City Brewery allows dogs inside and is right in Burlington. Dog Mountain in Saint Johnsbury, VT is the home of Stephen Huneck Gallery and is 2 hours from Burlington. Dog Mountain consists of 150 acres and is a dog and dog lover’s dream. It was started by artist Stephen Huneck and his wife in memory of his dogs. The couple has since passed but continues in their memory. Some of the ways to enjoy the space at Dog Mountain: Get out your pup’s energy by exploring one of the many trails. Look at the calendar of events, such as an outdoor concert you and your dog can enjoy. Visit the gallery to enjoy the dog-themed artwork. The dog chapel is full of heart-warming quotes and notes left by people who have lost a loved pet. Dog friendly hotels: Paw House Inn is about 2 hours from Burlington. It is a bit of a drive BUT for the dog lovers, it may be worth it. This isn’t just a dog friendly inn. This could be described more as a dog lovers hotel or maybe dog obsessed. This inn doesn’t just cater to your dog they LOVE your dog. Here are some of the amenities at Paw House Inn: Rooms have built-in dog beds. They are allowed at breakfast. There is a playhouse with on-site sitters who will watch your dog while you explore Vermont. Your dog will love running in the off-leash dog park. If you are looking to stay in Burlington there are many hotels that allow dogs including the Courtyard by Marriot and Hotel Vermont.     NYC is another dog friendly travel spot to enjoy with your fur baby. The weather is similar to Vermont, you can visit any time but may be more enjoyable during the warmer months. What to do: The Grey Dog is a restaurant with several locations. The patios are heated in the winter to dine with your dog. The Brooklyn Brewery allows dogs in their tasting room. Evil Twin Brewing allows dogs in their taproom. They are located in Brooklyn and Queens. Bibliotheque in Soho is a bookstore that offers food, coffee, and wine. Bring your dog and unwind with a drink or snack. Look for your favorite authors in the Strand bookstore located in the East Village. Subways allow dogs if they are in a carrier. I’ve seen pics of people getting creative with their large dogs. The Barking Dog is dog-friendly inside and is a full-service restaurant, located in Hell’s Kitchen as well as the Upper East Side Chateau le Woof offers coffee, pastry, breakfast, and wine.  Dog ice cream and dog brunch allow your pup to be included in the experience. The Ripped Bodice in Brooklyn will allow you to purchase romance novels with your dog by your side. Le Doggie Cool coffee shop in Brooklyn is also a groomer and a daycare facility.   The Museum of Illusions is pet-friendly all year round. Dogs need culture too. You and your dog can cross one off the bucket list after walking over the Brooklyn Bride. There are plenty of exciting spots to sniff around Central Park. central park in the fall Dog friendly hotels: Life can be stressful. The Plaza is for dogs who really need to get away and be pampered. Their pampered pup package includes a bed, bathrobe, and dog-friendly macarons. Sometimes we just want to forget our troubles. If the plaza is not in your price range The Evelyn Hotel and the Maritime Hotel offer cheaper alternatives. The Maritime does not charge a fee for dogs and allows any size. The Evelyn Hotel allows dogs under 40 lbs. with a $150 fee.   Washington DC - our nation’s dog loving capital! What to see and do: Dog Daze restaurant has a large outdoor dog garden. Enjoy a meal and drink while you watch your dog run and play.   National Mall offers miles of paths and grassy areas. Walk by and sniff around the many monuments and statues while absorbing some history. Many bookstores are always welcoming to the dogs. Visit East City Bookshop and Solid State Books. Theodore Roosevelt Island offers 88 acres of trails to explore. Many pedicab tours are dog-friendly so everyone is included. Lost Generation Brewing Company allows dogs inside when you are ready to stop for a brew.   Enjoy some pastry and coffee at Junction Coffee with your pup. Stone Tower Winery is about an hour away in Leesburg, VA. The tasting room is dog-friendly. Virginia has some beautiful vineyards and so many of them are dog-friendly. enjoying some wine Where to stay: The River Inn is a top-rated hotel on Trip Advisor and their website has a list of dog-friendly parks and things to do. Hotel Hive allows two pets of any size with no additional fee. Carmel, California (Carmel-by-the-sea) has a perfect climate for a trip any time during the year. While exploring you will find so many dog inviting spaces. Dog friendly travel list of things to do: Scenic Road Walkway allows you to enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean. Carmel Beach offers space for your dog to run and enjoy the sand but they must be leashed. Enjoy some wine at De Tierra Vineyards. Dogs are allowed to accompany you inside. Hidden Hills Brewery has space for dogs to either be inside or outside. Many Ocean Avenue stores and restaurants allow dogs even providing water bowls and treats. The Fountain of Woof is available to hydrate your pup after all the activity. Where to stay: Forest lodge. They have wash stations for your dog and suggest pet-sitting services if you will be leaving your pet The Cypress Inn is not only dog friendly but also has a restaurant that allows your dog. Enjoy dinner at Terry’s Lounge, even inside. Doris Day was a joint owner of the Cypress Inn for many years and an animal activist. She has been credited with Carmel being such a pet friendly destination. Explore more Carmel, CA dog friendly hotels.   Colorado Springs, Colorado At the base of the Rocky Mountains and near Pike’s Pike Colorado Springs is for all the hiking and nature-loving dogs out there. Things to do: Manitou Cliff Dwellings Museum allows you to bring your dog with you as you explore the dwellings and learn about the ancestral Puebloan ruins. Peterson Air & Space Museum is an Air Force Field Museum that allows dogs to accompany you as you learn about aviation. Pub Dog Colorado.  This is an absolute must! This is a restaurant and bar with an indoor and outdoor dog park. Metric Brewery is dog friendly to stop for a pint. Bear Creek dog park includes 25 acres to explore off leash, including a creek and an agility training area. Cheyenne Mountain State Park provides 3 dog-friendly trails. Fuel up with your pup and visit Jives or Corter Coffee Roasters Pike's Peak Where to stay: The Broadmoor will recommend pet sitters and pet walkers in the area. They provide a dog map to pet-friendly trails and room service options for your dog. Cheyenne Mountain Resort allows 2 dogs up to 80 lbs. They offer information on veterinarians as well as dog services in the area. Traveling with our dogs requires a little more planning but is worth it. Now you are ready to sniff a new spot!  Dog friendly travel is becoming more popular, let’s hope we find more places to explore. Many of the travel booking sites offer dog friendly as a filter option to make the process a little easier.

Is Pet Sitting for You? It can be daunting to start a new career or a business but also exciting. Spending time with dogs is both fun and rewarding. Becoming a pet sitter is similar to the path to dog walking. One major difference is deciding to pet sit in your home or the client’s home or offering the option of either.   Who should become a pet sitter Anyone who loves dogs should consider this career or side hustle. The level of commitment will be up you. This would be perfect for someone retired looking to make extra money or just wanting to be around dogs. What a perfect gig for someone who may be going to school and needs to supplement their income. I recently went back to school online studied with my pup by my side. A vet tech may offer pet-sitting services on the side. Those are some serious credentials to bring to clients. How to get clients There are websites such as www.wag.com  and www.rover.com . These allow you to sign up to start getting pups in your area and your human clients can leave reviews. Announce your services through local Facebook groups or the Nextdoor app. Network at dog parks. Even the most introverted person loves talking about their pup. Ask to leave fliers with veterinarian offices or dog stores. Once you start getting clients ask them about any neighbors with dogs. Having multiple clients in one apartment building or in the same neighborhood will be a bonus. How to set yourself apart While these are not necessary, there are certifications you can obtain to put your clients at ease. The Red Cross has a Cat and Dog first aid online training certification. If you prefer in-person, check your local pet stores.  A dog boarding and daycare facility near me offers in-person CPR certification classes. There are dog behavior certifications, or you can take a course on dog behavior to give yourself an advantage. Let your clients know you care about being prepared. Do you have experience with senior dogs or special needs dogs? It can make a difference. Volunteer your dog walking services at a rescue or animal shelter. You can then use the rescue as a reference. You could also offer pet waste removal to clients with yards. The financial stuff you need to know Insurance can be fairly reasonable. This is something you will want to obtain for your own safety and benefit. As well as keep your client’s mind at ease. According to NextInsurance.com  general liability insurance costs 82% of our customers $11 on average per month. With pet sitting you may want to be both bonded and insured. Being bonded protects against theft while insurance protects against accidents. Do your research and compare prices.   Taxes Speak to a tax professional.  You may want to sit down with a tax preparer prior to start dog walking so you know what to expect and are setting aside the right tax amount either quarterly or yearly. There are also some items you may write off. Discuss with your tax preparer what purchases to keep track off such as poop bags, business-related mileage, shoes, and much more. They can help you be ahead of the game for when you file your taxes.   Go the extra mile Schedule a meet and greet for first-time clients to put the potential clients at ease and make sure it will be a good fit for you and any new dogs. Send videos and pics to the client once you’ve started. Let the client know about the interaction and any cute stories. When my sometimes-fearful dog had her first day at doggy day care I was so happy I was sent a video of her playing with her new friends. It put me at ease and was fun to watch!   Working with dogs can be a great joy to your life. You just have to start one client at a time!

These are 7 dog business ideas that you may not have heard of before and maybe there is something in this list to get you excited to start. The last one on the list may be the most genius one I have heard of! Table of Contents 1. Dog Masseuse 2. Reiki 3. Flight Nanny 4. Acupuncture 5. Dog Party Planner 6. Dog Escort for Wedding 7. Puppy Social Wellness Experience   1. Dog Masseuse Step 1 : Research dog massage certifications. You do not need to be licensed or certified to become a dog masseuse. However, to start a reputable business it is strongly recommended to become certified. This is not only to showcase yourself as an expert, but it will also give your clients confidence in choosing you. Step 2 : Complete 200 hours of training and study. There are a few places you may become certified. The National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM) is the main one. Step 3 : Learn and relay the benefits of massage to potential clients. It can be used for a dog recovering from an injury or as a relaxation technique for dogs who may be anxious or improve circulation. And what creature doesn’t love a massage? Step 4 : Start offering your services-get out and network!    2. Reiki Step 1 : Learn about Reiki. Reiki means spiritual energy and it is an ancient Japanese healing practice. It is light touch therapy. Keeping our pets comfortable is so important to us. Reiki eases pain and reduces stress. Step 2 : You may become a Certified Pet Reiki Practitioner. As with a masseuse it is not recommended to be certified but strongly encouraged. You can easily find courses online to learn Reiki for animals. I was surprised to see the Community College of Baltimore County offers an in-person Animal Reiki practitioner certification. It just shows that caring about our pets has become mainstream. There are also many online course options. Step 3 : Offer Reiki sessions for dogs, especially those dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, or end-of-life care.   3. Flight Nanny. Step 1 : Understand the job of a flight nanny. A flight nanny flies with the dog in the cabin. This allows them to stay with the pup to ensure it is safe and comfortable while all its needs are met Step 2 : Network with breeders and pet owners who travel frequently. Breeders commonly use flight nannies to transport a puppy to the new owner. You can also hire a flight nanny if you are moving and want someone to fly with your dog.  Or anyone who cannot be with their dog on a flight and needs to ensure they are being cared for. Step 3 : Keep the dog calm on flights while keeping them happy and healthy. 4. Acupuncture Step 1 : A licensed veterinarian can perform acupuncture on a dog. This is an interesting path to take as a veterinarian. Step 2 :  Besides being a veterinarian, you must be an acupuncturist certified veterinary acupuncturist (CVA). Step 3 : Acupuncture may be used to treat pain or anxiety and is typically used in addition to other treatments. My dog had acupuncture while he was being treated for his brain tumor and did find it helped with pain management and comfort.   5. Dog Party Planner Step 1 : A dog party planner can be used to plan dog birthdays or canine weddings as they become more and more popular. Step 2 : Offer pooch décor, dog-friendly treats, as well as cake. You can also partner with caterers to provide for the needs of humans.   Step 3 : You can also offer DIY party kits for humans to be their own party planners for the day. Offer a dog-friendly photo booth or backdrops for chaotic photos.   6. Dog Escort for Wedding Step 1 :  Learn the potential here! This is also known as a wedding pet attendant. So many couples are including their pets on their wedding day and want a worry-free day when it comes to the needs of their fur baby. Step 2: Specialize in transporting dogs to weddings and ensuring they are well-prepared for their roles in the ceremony. Help primp the pups to get photo ready. Step 3 : The attendant ensures the pup is fed, properly hydrated, and all-around cared for while the bride and groom enjoy their day.   7.   Puppy Social Wellness Experience Step 1 : Organize puppy social events such as yoga or a social hour of play. Step 2 : Partner with breeders or rescues to bring puppies to events. This helps puppies who need a home as well as help with socialization. Step 3 : Market to dog lovers and especially to companies looking to book events. Educate potential clients of the benefits of a puppy wellness event. According to the National Institutes of Health interacting with puppies can lower blood pressure and cortisol levels.   As a former employer of a large corporation, I can tell you this is something I would have looked forward to!   Hopefully, these unusual dog business ideas will provide some inspiration. I know how hard starting a new job or business can be. The anxiety of the unknown is enough to prevent anyone from starting. But what if you try it and love it?  So many of these can be started as a part-time job or just started with one initial client. If you hate it don’t move forward. If you find you love it the options can be endless!

My friend recently started a new job in corporate America. The day before she was to start, she said I should be excited to start something new. But she wasn’t. This was a new job but not a new career field. I asked how would you feel if you were going to be walking dogs tomorrow. Being the dog lover she is her response was happy !  Why are we all so afraid to start something different and break free from our comfort zone? If you are ready to leap into a dopamine-filled life as a dog walker keep reading.    Who should become a dog walker? Anyone who loves dogs should consider this career or side hustle. The level of commitment will be up to you. This is great for stay-at-home moms looking for extra cash or maybe you are like my friend who is tired of corporate America, or you are a retiree but want either extra income or just to get out there.   The Why People are spending more and more money on their 4-legged friends. They are members of our families and their longevity and happiness are important. Have you ever considered being a dog walker? This job checks a lot of boxes. There are proven health benefits of being outside and getting your steps in. Not to mention the happiness you will feel being around dogs. There is such freedom in being able to make your own schedule. And let’s not forget the main reason we are here. To make some money!   How to get clients There are websites and apps such as www.wag.com  and www.rover.com . These allow you to sign up to start getting pups in your area and your human clients can leave reviews. You can also announce your services through local Facebook groups or the Nextdoor app. Be sure to network at dog parks. Even the most introverted person loves talking about their pup. Ask to leave fliers with veterinarian offices or dog stores. Once you start getting clients ask them about any neighbors with dogs. Having multiple clients in one apartment building or the same neighborhood will be a bonus.   How to set yourself apart While these are not necessary, there are certifications you can obtain to put your clients at ease. The Red Cross has a Cat and Dog First Aid online training certification. If you prefer in-person, check your local pet stores.  A dog boarding and daycare facility near me offers in-person CPR certification classes. There are dog behavior certifications, or you can even take a course on dog behavior to give yourself an advantage. Let your clients know you care about being prepared. Do you have experience with senior dogs or special needs dogs? It can make a difference. Volunteer your dog walking services at a rescue or animal shelter. You can then use the rescue as a reference.   How to manage your time and clients Life will be easier if you keep a detailed and concise schedule when managing multiple clients. Be clear about how much time you will spend with each dog.  There are many apps you can download to manage your schedule and appointments and send reminders to your clients. Dog walker insurance Insurance for dog walkers is fairly reasonable. This is something you will want to obtain for your own safety and benefit. As well as keep your client’s mind at ease. According to NextInsurance.com general liability insurance costs 82% of our customers $11 on average per month. Do your research and compare prices.   Taxes Speak to a tax professional.  You may want to sit down with a tax preparer before starting dog walking, so you know what to expect and are setting aside the right tax amount either quarterly or yearly. There are also some items you may write off. Discuss with your tax preparer what purchases to keep track of such as poop bags, business-related mileage, shoes, and much more. They can help you be ahead of the game when you file your taxes.   Go the extra mile Schedule a meet and greet for first-time clients to put them at ease and to ensure it will be a good fit for you and any new dogs. Send videos and pics to the client once you’ve started. Let them know about the interaction and any cute stories.   Still unsure if this is for you?  Dog walking is something you can ease into and try part-time. But you never know if it can turn into something more. If it seems too daunting to try this on your own, you can look for dog walking jobs in your area where you will work for someone else. Life is short, try something new!

Etsy is a great place for dog lovers to find all kinds of treasures. Here are some ideas if you are interested in creating and selling. Embroidered Dog Items Perfect for humans and dogs alike. Here are some ideas: Items to embroider: Tees (for pups and people), sweatshirts, pillows, plush dog toys, blankets, and towels, to name a few. How to customize: The dog’s face highlighted with their name, outline of the pup, outline of just the ears, the year the pup was born. Not everything needs to be custom. If you have ideas for cute designs and sayings, go for it!    Production options: Print-on-demand is available for embroidered work allowing a third party to print and ship to the customer. An embroidery machine is also an option for you to create yourself. This will require a little more work. The profits are typically higher but you will need to produce the product and all shipping. This also requires keeping inventory and supplies.   Personalized Dog Tags Customize your dog tag to show your pet’s flair. Shapes: Circles, rectangles, hearts, paw prints, bones, and stars.  Materials: Metal, plastic, or silicone. Customize: Add the dog’s name, your name, address, and phone number. Production at home: Laser engraver or a 3D printer. Print-on-demand: Have a 3rd party do all the work for you, printing and shipping to your customer.   Human necklace   A little bling for the dog lovers. Pendant shapes: Circle, heart, paw print, or bone. Materials: Silver, gold, aluminum, and gemstones. Personalization: Dog photo and name. Design your own: Not everything needs to be custom. Include paw prints, cute sayings, or depictions of a particular breed. Production at home: Laser engraver. Print-on-demand: Have someone else help with the work and ship to the customer.   Dog ornament Perfect for the holidays. Customize: Breed-specific, various shapes, or a mini picture frame. Personalization: Include the pup’s name and the holiday year. Materials: Ceramic, metal, or glass. Produce at home: A laser engraver. Print-on-demand: Find a company to do the production for you.   Stone memorial   Stepping stones and headstones are a beautiful way to remember our loved pups after they have passed. Personalization: Dog’s name and the years. Create: A stone engraver would be needed to personalize the stone. Some laser engravers have the ability be used on stone.   Dog treats This is the time for bakers to get creative. Customize: Dog bones all year round. Go crazy during the holidays. Hearts and cupids during Valentine’s Day and candy canes at Christmas are just some options. Ingredients: Dog parents are always looking for organic and healthy and this can be a great way to set yourself apart. Be sure to list all the ingredients. Packaging: Make it pretty! Subscription: This would be a great time to offer a subscription for seasonal dog treats and major holidays. Dog artwork Are you an artist who loves dogs? Custom: Pet portraits are extremely popular. Turn someone’s pup into a cartoon or make it pop art. Styles: Watercolor, charcoal, and sketches are all artistic options. Not personalized: Not all artwork needs to be personalized. I think we are all familiar with the print of dogs playing poker.   Human tees with dog quotes The witty and funny quotes can be endless when you start brainstorming. Ideas: Sweet dog phrases, puns, or funny phrases. Production: The tees can be embroidered as discussed earlier. A heat press can also get you started with your t-shirt business. Print on demand: Leave that work to a third party to print and ship out.    Dog-themed welcome mat Let your guests know they are walking into a dog-loving home! Personalization: As with most of these items, the welcome mat can be personalized with your dog’s name or an outline of them. Other options: Include a cute saying about dogs on the mat or some paw prints. Production: UV printers have the ability to print on coir material. Coir is one of the most common materials for doormats. You can also use stencils and paint yourself but that may be a bit more work. Print-on-demand: Available for welcome mats!     Dog toy baskets Where function meets cuteness. Materials: Felt, cotton, or wood. Personalize: Include the pup’s name. Production: Felt or cotton can be embroidered with an embroidery machine or a DTF machine. The wood baskets can be engraved with a laser engraver as well as painted.   If you are interested in any of these, I strongly suggest doing your research. Determine if you should invest in a machine to do it yourself. The print-on-demand route is always an option. Please also note that before selling any items with cute sayings do your research to ensure that they are not trademarked. You can visit the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for more details. Go wild and have fun in the process!

According to www.Metatechinsights.com The Pet Photography market accounted for USD 1.1 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.4 Billion by 2035. Dog photography may be the perfect business for you. You can start as a side hustle or dive right in and create a full-fledged business. Please read below for the steps; it may be easier than you think! 1. Choosing Your Location Here are some location options to provide. Offering outdoor and the client’s home is an inexpensive option to start.   Studio : An indoor area allowing you to have your lighting and props ready for clients. Mobile Studio : A van or truck set up as a photo booth with proper lighting and props. Outdoor Locations : Parks and beaches whether snow or sun for portraits or action shots. Client's Home : Offer to come to the client’s home where their pup may be the most relaxed. 2. Develop Your Photography Skills No formal certifications are required to become a pet photographer. Online Classes : Udemy, Skillshare, and YouTube are some online options to brush up on your photography skills. Photography Degrees : Many colleges or universities offer an associate or bachelor's degree in photography. On-the-job training : The best way to improve is by doing! Offer to take photos of the dogs of family and friends while experimenting with lighting and different modes. 3. Equipment   Camera : While smartphones can capture decent photos, a professional DSLR or mirrorless camera will provide superior image quality. Invest in lenses suited for pet photography to capture sharp, clear shots.  Lighting : Natural light will always be the best option, but a lighting kit may be necessary. There are specific lights that will even attach to your phone for photos. Editing Software : Use photo editing software to make any necessary adjustments. Adjust color balance, and focus, while removing distractions or blemishes. 4. Props and Treats Props  can enhance the festive mood of your photos, especially for holiday-themed shoots. Consider using: Holiday props (Santa hats, scarves, etc.) Personalized items (dog bandanas, collars, etc.) Cute toys that match the theme of the shoot. Treats  are essential to keep your subjects focused and engaged, especially for action shots or when you need to capture attention at the right moment. 5. Types of Photos to Offer As a pet photographer, you should offer a variety of photography options to cater to different needs: Portraits : Classic headshots or full-body shots of pets. Action Shots : Capturing pets in motion, whether they’re playing or running. Prints and Novelty Items : Offer prints of photos, or personalized items like mugs, calendars, and canvas prints, as additional revenue streams. Dog events : Dog birthdays, weddings, and Quinceanera are just some of the events to consider. Workshops and Classes : Share your knowledge by hosting workshops or online classes for pet owners who want to learn how to take better photos of their pets. 6. Marketing Your Pet Photography Business To grow your client base, effective marketing is crucial: Flyers and Business Cards : Distribute them at veterinary offices, pet boutiques, dog groomers, and pet supply stores. Social media : Create an Instagram account to showcase your best photos. Instagram is highly visual and allows potential clients to see your work firsthand. Website : A professional website featuring your portfolio, pricing, and services will give potential clients a convenient way to contact you. Local Facebook Pages and Nextdoor : Join town-specific Facebook groups and the Nextdoor app to promote your services and offer deals to local pet owners. 7. Pricing Your Services Setting competitive and fair pricing is important for attracting clients while sustaining your business: Research Competitors : Check what other pet photographers in your area charge to ensure your prices are competitive. Subscription Packages : Offer subscription packages where clients can return for holiday photos or seasonal shoots. Discounts for Repeat Clients : Encourage loyalty with discounts for return customers. Referral Discounts : Offer a discount for clients who refer new customers to you. 8. Going the Extra Mile To stand out in a competitive market, consider going above and beyond: Consult with Trainers : If you work with reactive or nervous dogs, speaking with a dog trainer can help you manage difficult situations and understand canine body language. 9. Legal and Business Considerations Starting a pet photography business involves more than just photography: Photo Consent : Obtain consent from clients regarding the use of their pet’s photos, especially if you plan to use them for marketing or promotional purposes. Local Regulations : Check with your local municipality about any business licenses or permits required to operate. Tax Considerations : Consult with a tax advisor to ensure you handle your income, expenses, and taxes properly. What a rewarding and fun business this could be. Don’t be afraid to start something new! And remember you can always take some of the pressure off and start it as a side hustle. You only need one client to begin.

Many dog breeds need their day of beauty too-you know the breeds I'm talking about! Don't our pups deserve a stress-free day at the salon? This may be the perfect business for you if are a dog lover with a passion for grooming. Read below for the steps on how to become a dog groomer. Getting started: ·Select a business name. ·Purchase a domain to establish a website that lists your services and prices. · An Instagram account is also a great idea to showcase all your fabulous-looking pups. Location: ·Mobile grooming: Convert a van into a dog grooming business. Make life easier for your clients and drive directly to them. Mobile groomers can charge a bit more due to the convenience. ·A physical location: Rent or purchase space for your dog spa. You can start from scratch and create the space of your pup dreams or look for an established dog grooming business for sale. ·Franchise: A franchise may be an option as they are already established with a brand name and offer various assistance such as training and advertising Legal issues and taxes: ·Some states may require a specific license to become a dog groomer.  ·Register your business with your state and obtain a federal tax ID number (EIN). ·Consider setting up an LLC to protect yourself and your assets. ·Obtain insurance to be prepared for any issues related to injury to yourself or animals in your care as well as property. ·Talk to a tax professional to determine how to prepare. Startup supplies:·         ·Dog grooming clippers and trimmers ·Hands-free dryer ·Dog grooming table ·Dog grooming tub ·Crates or playpens Certification is not necessary; however, some certifications will give you an edge. ·Fear Free Certified Groomer certification ·CPR certified ·National Certified Master Groomer through the National Dog Groomers Association of America ·AKC S.A.F.E. (Safety, Assurance, Fundamentals, Education) Groomer Certified through the American Kennel Club Extra services to offer: ·Self-service dog washing stations ·All natural products ·Nail cutting ·Anal gland expression ·Flea bath ·Skunk spray treatment ·Ear cleaning Marketing: ·List your location in Google. ·Ask clients to write a Yelp or Google review. ·Offer referral discounts. ·Offer services in Facebook city and town groups. If you are looking to be a dog groomer and have never done it before look into trainee programs in your area. It can be scary to start a business or a new endeavor in life. There are resources and I encourage you to use them. Two that are available to you are www.Score.org  and www.SBA.gov .

"According to Grand View Research, 'The global natural dog treats market size was estimated at USD 6.26 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 12.3% from 2024 to 2030.'” We love spoiling our pets. Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, gotcha day, or just because all our pups deserve a little treat. Dog cupcakes, cakes, or specially made treats will make your dog’s day. People are more concerned than ever about the ingredients they feed their dogs and are looking for natural products. Starting a dog bakery will not necessarily be easy but your 4-legged customers will always be happy.  What’s better than that? This guide on how to start a dog treat business may be for you.   1.  Finding a location: There are a few places to sell your baked goods. ·Online: Pick a name and purchase a domain.  Get a website up and running filled with your tasty treats. You may also sell your creations on Etsy. ·Retail space: Set up a cute bakery that allows customers to browse your displays filled with treats. ·Mobile truck: A mobile truck allows you to come directly to the pups. Drive to dog-friendly locations or offer your mobile truck to be available for dog fundraisers or other events. ·Farmer’s markets: Set up a stand at a farmer’s market. Farmer’s markets are great for people looking for only the freshest ingredients. Be sure to include a list of all ingredients in your dog treats. ·Pop-up shop: Pop-up shops are shops that rent out a space for a temporary period of time. This is a great way to test the demand. ·Dog boutiques: Visit local dog boutiques or groomers to discuss selling your treats. 2.  Baking Equipment for your dog treat business (aside from the obvious oven, mixing bowls, etc): ·If starting out at home on a budget start with pans and mixers you already have. ·Invest in some cookie cutters and pans in fun shapes such as bones, hearts, and specific holiday shapes. ·Packaging is important as something eye-catching will be memorable. Include a stick with your name and logo and a list of ingredients. 3.  What to sell: ·Treats, cupcakes, and cakes. ·Use natural or organic ingredients that dogs love such as pumpkin, peanut butter, chicken, salmon, and beef. ·Leashes, toys, and collars are also options to provide. ·Coffee for the humans is also an option. ·Kits for people to make their own treats at home.  4.  Marketing: ·During the Christmas season offer photos with Santa if you have a retail location. ·Have a contest for the best Halloween costume to win a treat. ·Each holiday showcase designated treats such as heart-shaped cakes for Valentine’s Day. ·Have customers looking forward to seasonal treats. We all look forward to our pumpkin goodies in the fall. ·Ask your happy customers to show pictures of their pups eating your treats so that you may showcase them on Instagram. ·People love to see the process. Video yourself in a day of your life. Show the process of baking and packaging your product as well as interacting with the pups. These videos can be posted on Tik Tok, Instagram, or Youtube. ·Be sure to enter your retail location’s address in Google Business Profile to be easily found. ·Offer a holiday subscription service. The pup can look forward to a treat on every holiday.   5.  Legal, Insurance, and Tax (the fun stuff): ·Contact your state as each state has different laws regulating prepared foods for dogs. ·Consulting with a tax professional is highly recommended so you are aware and prepared for your tax situation with running a business. ·General liability insurance is not typically required but it is suggested. It will protect you from any insurance claims that may include illness, injury, or property damage. Check with your state for insurance requirements. Starting a business can be so rewarding but can be scary as hell. If anxiety is holding you back start small. Make a few treats for friends or your own dog. Then go to the farmer’s market. It’s a great way to test the market and you never know what it can turn into! You may find that a dog treat business is the perfect fit for you.