The allure of working outdoors with beloved canine companions is a dream for many animal lovers. January, often celebrated as Walk Your Dog Month, can be a time when aspiring dog walkers begin to contemplate turning their passion into a profession. While the idea is appealing, a successful dog walking career requires more than just a love for dogs; it demands preparation, understanding, and a commitment to animal welfare.
Do Dogs Need Walking Every Day?
Absolutely. All healthy dogs require daily walks to maintain a healthy lifestyle. High-energy breeds may even benefit from two to four walks a day. This consistent human-to-dog interaction is not only essential for their physical health but also a highlight of their day, contributing to their overall well-being. A regular, scheduled routine, which often includes their “walkies,” profoundly impacts a dog’s physical, mental, and emotional health.
Is Dog Walking Beneficial for Dogs?
Indeed, dog walking is highly beneficial. Physically, it keeps joints and muscles active, aids in weight management, and supports a healthy digestive system, particularly for dogs prone to overeating. Mentally, outdoor activities are crucial. Investigating new sights, scents, and sounds stimulates their natural curiosity and engages their senses. Furthermore, dogs thrive on social interaction, and regular exposure to well-behaved dogs is vital for their cognitive and behavioral development, fostering confidence and happiness.
Gaining Experience in Dog Walking
Many professional dog walkers begin by offering their services to neighbors and family pets. This gradual approach allows individuals to assess their suitability for the profession and experience different weather conditions and dog temperaments. With the right knowledge and experience, a small dog walking service can evolve into a lucrative business. It’s important to understand the fundamentals of canine care and behavior. For instance, dog walking must be taken seriously, as you may be liable for accidents that occur while the dog is in your care. A solid foundation in dog care can be established through various courses, such as those focusing on dog walking and pet sitting.
Key Questions to Ask Before Becoming a Dog Walker
Before embarking on a dog walking career, self-reflection is crucial. Consider the following:
- Are you physically fit, healthy, and strong? Rigorous activity can impact your health. If you have existing injuries or conditions, assess how dog walking might affect you. Handling large or boisterous dogs that pull on the lead requires significant strength.
- Can you walk independently for extended periods? Confidence in navigating varied terrains and comfort in walking alone are essential. You may also need to consider safety in poor light conditions and potentially track your walks.
- Do you live near suitable walking locations? Proximity to dog-friendly parks is a significant advantage. If not, you might need to invest in a car equipped with dog-safe carriers to travel to better walking spots.
Understanding Dog Walker Earnings
In the UK, the average cost for a dog walk ranges from £10 to £24 per hour, per dog. This rate can increase based on a dog’s specific needs, such as requiring an additional groom after a muddy walk. A professional dog walker’s earning potential is also influenced by their skill set and qualifications. For example, individuals with specialized training, like a Canine Behaviourist, can command higher fees. Professional dog walkers in the UK can earn above the average annual wage of approximately £26,500, especially if they are actively walking around 13 dogs daily throughout the work week.
Is Formal Training Necessary for Dog Walkers?
While formal training is not a strict requirement to become a dog walker in the UK, it is highly recommended, particularly if you plan to offer dog sitting services within your home or business, which necessitates a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification for licensing. Owners often prefer walkers who can demonstrate a solid understanding of dogs. Therefore, pursuing qualifications in canine behavior, dog sitting, or canine care is advantageous. It helps you stand out in a competitive field.
The Level 3 Award in Dog Walking and Pet Sitting for Professionals is an Ofqual-regulated qualification and an excellent starting point. This course covers essential aspects of dog care and welfare, including the roles and responsibilities of a professional, relevant legislation, client requirements, health and safety, animal transportation, dog breeds and behaviors, and planning for a small animal business. It’s an ideal course for anyone aspiring to launch a career in dog walking or pet sitting.
For those inspired to become dog walkers, this course offers comprehensive training. Additionally, if you have a passion for animals, you can stay updated on animal awareness days and events with a FREE calendar, which you can download here. Embarking on a career in dog walking can be incredibly rewarding, offering a unique opportunity to combine a love for animals with an active, outdoor lifestyle.
