How to start a dog walking business in 2026, step by step

If you dream of swapping the walls of your office for paws on the pavement, you’re in the right place. 

While strolling through parks certainly sounds like a fun job, dog walking is a serious industry. And there’s an opportunity for pooch-loving founders like you to make a real living. But if you’re wondering where to start, the technical details can feel a little overwhelming. 

We’re here to show you how to set up a dog walking business in the UK — from figuring out what equipment you need to the more formal bits like company registration — so you’ll feel confident and in control.

Now that everyone’s tails are wagging, let’s jump in.

In this article:

• What do I need to start a dog walking business?
• How to start a dog walking business: 5 steps
• Dog walking laws and regulations: what to know
• Should I get a basic disclosure check?
• What insurance do I need for a dog walking business?
• How to get clients for your dog walking business
• Is dog walking a good business?
• FAQs

Luckily, you don’t need a huge initial investment to start a dog walking business — just passion, reliability, the right gear and some smart planning.

Although the initial investment is low, dog walking comes with a lot of responsibility. After all, you’re in charge of people’s pets.

Trust plays a super important role here. You want your clients to feel confident leaving their fur babies in your care. And to do your job well, you need the right knowledge and equipment. 

Dog walking is a wonderfully unique business — it’s outdoors, you get to hang out with dogs of all shapes and sizes, but inevitably, it can get a little messy! 

Here’s a handy checklist of the equipment you need to dog walk like a pro:

• Transport: This could be your car or a van, just make sure you have secure crates and a safe set-up for drop-offs and pick-ups
• Leads and harnesses: Most dog owners will give you a lead, but you should carry spares and invest in a multi-clip lead for when you’re walking multiple dogs 
• Poo bags: You’d be surprised how quickly these run out — double the amount you think you need to start with!
• First aid kit: It’s a good idea to make this part of your dog walking uniform — a small crossbody bag would work — with adhesive tape, scissors, antiseptic wipes and tick removers
• Towels: Most dog owners will appreciate it if you wipe muddy paws clean before drop-off
• Mobile phone: Always have your phone with you in case of emergencies 

You don’t need a formal qualification to start and grow a dog walking business. But if you can tell your clients you’ve got one or two training courses under your belt, it’ll show that you take your work seriously. 

Plus, even if you’re a pooch aficionado, a formal certification may give you a further confidence boost and help you in unfamiliar situations. Two very useful types of training include:

1. Dog first aid: If a dog under your care is injured or gets sick, knowing what to do or even how to give them basic care until you reach a vet can provide peace of mind for you and your clients 
2. Dog handling: Courses on dog behaviour will help you manage tricky situations before they escalate. It’ll also help you navigate shy dogs or dogs that aren’t used to strangers taking them for a walk

Ready to make your dog walking dream come true? Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to set up a dog walking business.

Before you invest time and money in your idea, you should do some research into your local area to find out what challenges you might be up against — and where the opportunities lie. 

Using the resources around you — online, local shops, directories and word of mouth — find out what dog owners in your area really need so you can start planning your business.

You could break your research into three parts:

• Your area: Research and think about what postcodes or neighbourhoods you’ll cover. You need to balance having enough clients with keeping your travel time to a minimum
• Your competition: Look up existing dog walkers in your area. Can you find out what they charge and the services they offer, like group walks, solo walks or puppy visits? This helps you find a price point and service structure that makes sense for you
• Your demand: Try to find out what kind of services your local dog owners need. Are you in a commuter town where dog owners are looking for reliable lunchtime walkies? Or are there lots of new puppy owners? 

With over 13.5 million dogs living in the UK, the demand for professional dog walking is definitely there — it’s about finding what works for you.

Every business needs a plan. Set aside some time to think about how you can build a dog walking business that suits your life and your professional goals. 

Try not to restrict yourself too much and be open-minded to future possibilities. 

Your business plan should include:

• Your offering: What services are you selling to clients? For example, you could offer group walks in a local park, solo walks for shy dogs, after-hours walks or even home boarding (although this does come with licensing requirements)
• Your pricing: Now that you’ve done some competitor research, what will you charge your clients? (We’ll cover this in more detail below)
• Your costs: Make a list of the recurring business costs and pop them on a simple spreadsheet. You might include petrol, marketing, insurance, business banking fees, poo bags, etc
• Your marketing ideas: This is where being a local area expert matters the most — where are your clients likely to find you? Perhaps you’ll need to print out flyers for the local coffee shops or create online ads 

It’s a good idea to choose a name that makes a good first impression and reflects your services and personality — here, having a little fun goes a long way. 

Once you have a few business name ideas, see if they’re available to use. You can quickly check if a business name is free to register using our free company name availability checker. 

Once you know your preferred name is available, it’s time to make your dog walking business official. 

You have two common business structures to choose from: 

1. Sole trader: This is the simplest option. It means you and your business are the same ‘entity’ (you are personally responsible for any debts), and you report your dog walking income to HMRC via an annual Self-Assessment tax return
2. Limited company: This is where you and your business are separate legal entities. Limited companies offer limited liability, which protects your personal assets, like your home and your car, should your company go into debt. Registering a limited company requires a formal set-up, and many successful dog walkers choose this structure to look more professional, keep personal and business admin separate, and save tax as they grow.

If you want to form a limited company, it does require a little more admin, but don’t worry, the process is very straightforward:

• Choose a registered office address: You need to provide a formal, registered address in the UK where official post from Companies House and HMRC can be sent
• Appoint director/s: You need at least one director (which will be you!) to form a limited company. You’ll need to provide details like your name, date of birth and nationality during the formation process
• Define shareholders: This is where you decide who owns your company. Most small business founders choose to issue 1 share to themselves. This means you own 100% of your company (and it doesn’t have to be any more complicated than that)
• Submit your documents: You submit what’s called the ‘Memorandum of Association and the Articles of Association’ (don’t worry, most online services use standard templates for this), along with your application to Companies House, the UK’s official company register 

You can register a limited company yourself through the Companies House website or you can use an official company formation agent like Countingup. 

We make the company registration process easy. Our team prepares your application for you, including your Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association and you’ll be ready to trade within 24 hours. 

If you set up a limited company, having a dedicated business bank account is a legal requirement. It proves to HMRC that your company is a separate entity — and makes accounting a lot easier at tax time. 

There are lots of options out there, but it’s best to choose a current account that truly supports your growing business. With Countingup, you can get a business current account, tax tools and bookkeeping, all in one smart app. 

From accounting automation to tax estimates — you can save time and money and, ultimately, stress less knowing the numbers are done for you.  

You don’t need a licence to start professional dog walking in the UK. But the UK has strict laws that are designed to protect animals, the public and the environment. 

Don’t let this part scare you — knowing what these laws are is part of being a responsible and professional business owner. Let’s look at the laws and regulations you should be aware of:

The Animal Welfare Act 2006
This Act places a duty of care on pet owners and anyone responsible for an animal. This includes providing:

• A suitable environment
• A suitable diet
• The ability to express normal behaviour patterns
• Protection from pain, suffering, injury and disease

This means that it’s an offence if you don’t meet an animal’s needs or cause it unnecessary suffering. This includes things like never leaving a dog in a hot car and abandoning a dog. 

Further resources: Animal Welfare Act 2006, Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs 

Dog fouling
Dog fouling comes under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 in England and Wales (there are similar laws in Scotland and Northern Ireland).

It’s governed by local council by-laws, but the rule is simple: if a dog under your care fouls, you must clean it up immediately and dispose of it properly. If you don’t clear it up, you could face a fixed penalty notice, usually up to £100. 

Make sure you carry plenty of poo bags during your walks!

Further resources: Find your local council, Keep Britain Tidy 

Control of Dogs Order 1992
This law says that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the owner’s name and address engraved or written on it. 

It was created to ensure responsible dog ownership, public safety, and to help reunite lost dogs with their owners, even if they are already microchipped. 

As a professional dog walker, you should always double-check that your clients comply with this.

Further resources: The Control of Dogs Order 1992, Blue Cross Dog Laws UK

Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
This Act covers banned breeds and sets out strict control requirements for all dogs. As a dog walker, you’re responsible for making sure the dogs you walk are kept under control at all times, regardless of breed. 

In England and Wales, banned dog breeds currently include:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro

Further resources: Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, Blue Cross Dangerous Dogs Act – what is it?

A basic disclosure check (or DBS check) is an official document issued by the government that reveals if you have unspent criminal convictions.

To become a dog walker, you don’t legally need to get a basic disclosure check — unless you’re also working with children or vulnerable adults. 

But because you’ll often collect dogs from your clients’ homes — and potentially be given house keys and access to property — getting a basic disclosure check is highly recommended, even if it’s not legally required. It adds an extra layer of trust and professionalism, proving to clients that you take their security as seriously as their pet’s welfare.

Let’s face it, no matter how hard you try, accidents can happen.  

Having insurance protects you, the dogs, and your clients — and gives you peace of mind against the inevitable things that can go wrong when dealing with animals and the public.

The main policy to look into as a dog walker is public liability insurance. Let’s look at what it covers:

Honestly, this is essential if you want to build a dog walking business.

Public liability insurance can cover your legal costs and compensation if a member of the public is injured or if a dog in your care damages property. For example:

• A dog you’re walking causes a cyclist to fall off their bike 
• A dog you’re walking damages a fence or part of a garden 

Without public liability insurance, you could be personally responsible for any compensation claims. Even if you only plan to walk dogs occasionally, it’s advised to get this insurance, as one accident can lead to a serious claim. 

Public liability insurance policies can often be customised to include other services, like pet grooming or pet sitting, so if you’re planning to offer more than dog walking, it’s doubly worth it!

Here are some other types of dog walking insurance you might want to consider:

• Care, custody, and control (CCC) cover: This is really important for dog walkers. It covers you financially if an animal in your care is injured, becomes ill, gets lost, or even dies. It’s separate from public liability insurance and gives you peace of mind by covering potential vet bills if the worst happens.
• Key cover: This cover helps pay for the cost of replacement keys if they get lost or stolen. Key cover can often be bundled with other coverages like public liability and care, custody, and control insurance
• Equipment cover: This insures your professional dog walking gear (like leads, harnesses, and dog crates) against theft or damage

If you’re looking for more guidance, we’ve put together a detailed guide on insurance for dog walking.

You’ve got the plan, the paperwork and the insurance. Now you need the clients (and the dogs). 

To successfully grow a dog walking business, you’ll need to get out there and market your business. Here are a few ideas on how to get started:

• Start spreading the word: Word of mouth is probably the most powerful tool in pet services. If you offer a great service, your clients will tell their friends. You could consider offering a referral bonus (like a free walk for a new sign-up) to encourage this
• Market yourself, the traditional way: To really stand out, and give potential clients something to remember you by, you could print high-quality dog walking business cards. You could also print flyers and put them up in your local coffee shops, vet, surgeries, and community centres 
• Go online: Set up a simple, professional website and a social media presence to promote your services. Use local Facebook groups to share photos and build community trust
• Networking: Introduce yourself to local groomers, vets, and pet store owners — they’re fantastic sources of professional referrals.

Without a doubt, dog walking is a lucrative business choice in the UK right now. 

First and foremost, the UK is a nation of pet lovers. In a 2024 industry report, UK Pet Food estimated that 17.2 million households (60%) own one of the UK’s 36 million pets. And a huge 36% of UK households own dogs. 

The UK’s pet care industry is also booming, and it’s predicted to grow into a $11,998 million (roughly £9 million) industry by 2033. 

This is thought to be because:

• 59% of UK pet owners are more concerned with their pet’s wellbeing than their own
• Pet owners are more aware of the importance of diet, exercise, and general health for their animals
• Pet owners are spending more money on grooming services and other goods and services to guarantee their pets live happy and healthy lives

Dogs continue to be popular because they are believed to reduce loneliness, anxiety, tension, and depression. 

This was apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the RSPCA noting that 3.2 million “pandemic puppies” were added to the UK’s total pet dog population. 

That’s a lot more extra pups who need walking.

If you’re wondering how much a dog walking business makes, business profitability really depends on your running costs and individual business activities. But it’s definitely possible for your dog walking business to turn a decent profit. 

According to Tailster, an online directory of UK dog walkers and boarders, more than £1.5 billion is spent on dog walking per year. 

With low startup costs and the ability to scale your services (for example, taking multiple dogs out at once), your profitability comes down to your pricing structure, location and the number of clients you’re able to serve per day. 

To grow a dog walking business, efficiency is key. For example, if you live in an urban area, you might be able to handle 8–12 walks a day if you can find efficient walking routes and en-route pick-ups and drop-offs. 

There are many inspiring success stories out there, including Sarah Barnes, owner of Who Lets Your Dog Out. 

Barnes started her dog walking business in 2018 and, despite pandemic-related challenges, has grown her business from strength to strength. After converting from a sole trader into a limited company in 2023, she’s since hired staff and, in 2024, opened her own doggy day care centre. The sky really is the limit. 

The big question! In the UK, the average cost per hour for dog walking services ranges between £10 and £15. 

Your location is a huge factor to consider when you’re figuring out what to charge. Here is a general guide you can follow to get an idea of pricing by region:

Region	Hourly rate
London	£15-20
South East	£15-18
South West	£10-15
Midlands	£9-14
North West / Yorkshire	£8-13
Scotland / Wales / Northern Ireland	£8-13

So, if you live in London, you can usually charge a higher rate in comparison to remote or rural areas. But, beyond location, there are other factors to consider when determining your prices:

• Length of dog walking sessions (e.g. 30 mins, 60 mins)
• Number of dogs (how many dogs can you comfortably take out at one time?)
• Your experience, certificates, or qualifications
• Whether you have insurance (e.g. public liability insurance)
• Your business expenses (consider: fuel, marketing, equipment and even any software you might use to organise and schedule your walks)
• Extra services (will you also provide grooming, or feeding?)

Just remember, what determines a good dog walking business, or a good price, is entirely subjective. 

It depends on what type of business you’re looking to build. You might want to work full-time or part-time, or offer specific out-of-hours dog walking services. It’s your business, and you have to focus on what you want. 

Starting a dog walking business isn’t necessarily a walk in the park, but don’t let that dim your enthusiasm. It’s a brilliant business idea that comes with many perks — freedom, flexibility, and of course, many new four-legged friends. 

If you’re ready to set up a limited company, Countingup can help. Our company registration service is designed for small business owners looking for a quick, easy, and stress-free way to turn their business ideas into reality. 

In the meantime, if you’re looking for more small business advice, head to our resources hub, where you’ll find tips, tools, and business guides. 

Yes, you can absolutely set up a dog walking business as a limited company if you’re a teenager, provided you are 16 years old or over. But having an adult involved to help with banking and major contracts is recommended to ensure you can effectively build your dog walking business.

Choose a name that’s memorable, professional, and perhaps includes your local area (e.g. “Fidos of Finchley”) so people can find you. Use our free company name availability checker to make sure your chosen name is available before you register your business.

Yes, generally, but you must keep all dogs under control and clear up all mess immediately. Be aware of Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) in your area, which might restrict access or limit the number of dogs you can walk.

Yes, almost anyone can start a dog walking business. You aren’t required to have a specific licence, but professional insurance is essential to protect you and your business. Importantly, you have a legal duty under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to protect any dogs in your care.

Earnings for dog walking can vary significantly by location and schedule, but professional dog walkers typically charge between £10 and £25 per hour for a walk. A profitable, fully booked business can generate a full-time income by charging a competitive local rate.