6 tips for dog lovers who want to start a business

Budding entrepreneurs who love their dogs can cash in on their passion and start a business. Although the road to success is winding, the expansive pet industry welcomes new opportunities for healthier, happier animals. Here are several small business ideas for pet lovers and ways to start one.

A Starting Point for Small Business Owners

Dog enthusiast and owner of PromoSEO James Dooley says the key to starting a pet business is to research your market and understand what the consumer needs and wants. Entering the pet industry stems from your love for dogs, cats and other animals, but you must realize the niche gaps and market trends to catapult your business to the top.

Strive to live your passion in ways you're proud of, making a difference in the world like Dooley intends to in his career. Speak with other pet owners to discover what care, products and services are missing. This information will help inform your decisions in the type of business you want to operate and the ideas you bring to fruition.

6 Small Business Ideas for Pet Lovers

Is a pet business the right career move for you? If so, it's time to leverage your skills and consider what to offer furry friends and their owners. Here are six small business ideas for pet lovers:

1. Dog Walking

All dogs need some activity for long, healthy lives. However, the time spent running around depends on the breed, its conditions and the environment.

For example, veterinarian Dr. Carly Fox from the Animal Medical Center in New York City says sporting and herding dog breeds need 60-90 minutes of exercise daily. Smaller and brachycephalic breeds with pushed-in noses require 30-60 minutes.

Having a dog-walking business is convenient and beneficial for older adults, people with disabilities and busy pet owners to ensure their beloved canines get adequate exercise during the day. Your operations may do exceptionally well in a large city like Manhattan or Los Angeles. 

2. Doggy Day Care and Boarding

Those who work full-time may want to bring their dogs somewhere they can run around during the day. Otherwise, they may be stuck indoors, bored and isolated for hours. Doggy day care centers offer a safe and supervised environment for dogs to run around and socialize with each other. Offering boarding services is another option for clients who vacation without their dogs.

Socialization is critical to a canine's longevity. According to one study, social support is five times more effective in maintaining a dog's health and mobility than financial aspects.

3. Pet Grooming

Dogs make wonderful companions, but even you know they can be messy. Regularly booking grooming appointments improves your pet's health and allows you to keep a clean home.

A pet groomer offers numerous services like bathing, haircuts, nail trimming, teeth brushing and ear cleaning. Some also have de-shedding services, particularly practical in the summer months. According to Dooley, superior service and personalized care will help you build a loyal clientele as a groomer.

4. Pet Bakery

Combine your love for pets and baking by opening a local pet bakery. Pet bakeries offer indulgences with clean, safe ingredients for animals. Homing in on natural and organic offerings is one of the best small business ideas for pet owners, especially since consumer trends are on the uptick.

In one survey, 19% of pet owners shop for premium dog food with higher protein and less carbohydrates, making it the second most consumed pet food after commercial diets. If a pet bakery is on your radar, consider using fresh human foods dogs can enjoy, like carrots, apples, yogurt, pumpkin, blueberries, fish and chicken.

5. Animal Training

Have you mastered dog tricks with your four-legged friend? Perhaps friends call on you to help their puppies learn basic commands. Starting your own animal training business may be a good idea.

You only need a high school diploma to start this career, while voluntary certifications can boost your reputation. In fact, people may be willing to pay you more for training services with credentials. 

Aside from general training, you may consider teaching animals to respond to people with disabilities — for example, guide dogs. However, you must meet qualifying requirements to be a guide dog trainer, including completing a three-year apprenticeship and undergoing stringent evaluation and testing.

6. Pet Photography

If you want to turn your photography hobby into a career, why not become a pet photographer? Owners always look to display professional photos and create memories of their beloved pets.

Remember, dogs are not humans and won't always sit and stay in the position you ask them to. This means you need the patience of a saint. You must also be able to read their body language, as not all dogs will be happy to be there.

If you can get past tails wagging, heavy panting and distracted movements while taking pictures, you can create stunning animal portraits for fellow pet lovers.

Watch Your Unique Pet Business Thrive

Pet-loving consumers always seek unique offerings and services to improve their dogs' lives. Your small business idea could be the next big thing in the industry. Come up with something exciting missing from dog products and services today and watch your career take flight.