No experience is required to start a dog walking career, but taking the right steps ensures success and safety for both you and the dogs in your care.
Getting Started Without Experience
- Join beginner-friendly platforms: Tails requires experienced, vetted providers who pass in-person interviews — build your experience first, then apply. Rover and Wag also accept beginners with basic background checks.
- Get certified: Complete a Pet First Aid course ($30–$100) through Red Cross or PetTech. This boosts credibility and teaches emergency response skills.
- Start small: Begin with single-dog walks for small or medium-sized, calm breeds. Avoid multiple-dog walks or reactive dogs until you gain experience.
- Price competitively: Start at the lower end of market rates ($25 for 30 minutes in Chicago) to attract first clients despite limited reviews. Avoid undercutting — it signals inexperience.
Building Experience and Confidence
- Volunteer or shadow: Contact local shelters to volunteer as a dog walker. Some established walkers accept shadows for a day to teach the basics.
- Learn dog body language: Study canine communication to recognize stress, fear, or aggression signs before they escalate.
- Master leash handling: Practice with friends' or family members' dogs. Learn techniques for loose-leash walking and handling pulls.
- Understand breed differences: Research common breeds in your area to understand their exercise needs, temperaments, and potential challenges.
First Month Strategy
Set a goal of 3–5 regular clients within your first month. Offer exceptional service, send photo updates during walks, and request reviews after each successful walk. Build relationships with pet owners who can provide referrals. Within 2–3 months, you'll have enough experience and reviews to charge full market rates.
Check our complete dog walking jobs guide for detailed beginner strategies and advanced tips as you grow your business.