Home-Based Dog Business Ideas: How to Get Started
The UK has deep affection for dogs, with millions of households welcoming them as beloved pets. In 2021, there were an estimated 12.5 million pet dogs in the country, and their owners are big spenders. The UK pet market is worth £8.5 billion, with two in five pet owners spending more on their pets than their friends.
With this growing demand, there's never been a better time to start a dog business from home. Whether it's dog walking, grooming or training, these services are in high demand as many owners struggle to find time for their pets.
But where do you start? This guide will walk you through how to start a dog walking business in the UK and give tips on starting a dog grooming business at home. You'll also find out the essential steps for starting a dog training business, including legal considerations, insurance and payment processing.
Why Start a Dog Business from Home?
In addition to dog businesses being viable, they can be relatively easy to start. Unlike many other ventures, you don't need any professional qualifications or government licences when starting a dog business. That means less paperwork and less strain on the wallet.
Although you're free to get started right away from a legal standpoint, there are still things you'd benefit from having. If you're considering starting a dog walking business, for example, the British College of Canine Studies offers a Professional Dog Walker certificate.
And no matter if you're doing dog walking, dog grooming or dog training, it's incredibly valuable to take a pet first aid course. You can find these courses pretty easily online, and they’re quite short. In just six hours, you'll have the safety knowledge you need to start your home-based dog business.
Choosing the Right Home-Based Dog Business for You
Before setting up your dog business, decide on a niche. Here are three popular options:
Starting a Dog Walking Business in the UK
Dog walking is one of the most popular pet services, especially in urban areas where pet owners work long hours. How do you start a dog-walking business in the UK? It's pretty simple since you only need a few pieces of equipment. The main essentials are leads, harnesses, collars and perhaps a vehicle if you're planning on servicing a wider area.
The business itself involves tasks ranging from going to the owners' home, taking the dogs for exercise in the park and cleaning up after them.
How to Start a Dog Grooming Business at Home
Dogs need grooming, and owners don't always want to go to a salon for that. Setting up a dog grooming business from home is an excellent way to provide convenient services at lower costs than salons.
Dog grooming services include brushing and washing fur, clipping nails and trimming overgrown coats. Many of these treatments are routine, which means you can attract regular business. If you're new to the profession, you can find a wide range of dog grooming courses and training online.
If you're working out how to start a dog grooming business at home, bear in mind that you could also set yourself up as a mobile business and offer the convenience of house calls to your customers. The major additional factor to consider here is how to transport your grooming equipment.
How to Start a Dog Training Business
Training is one of the most important aspects of owning a pet. Unfortunately, many dog owners decide to get an animal without researching the proper way to care for and train it. Dog training is essential for well-behaved pets. Many owners struggle with obedience training, making this a lucrative business.
Starting a dog training business might be a good option, especially if you don't have a lot of working capital, as the primary upfront investment is time. You don't need to spend much on equipment, and there's no mandatory licence to obtain. However, there are training courses you can complete to help yourself stand out.
Legal Considerations and Dog Grooming Business Insurance in the UK
While dogs are in your care, you will be legally responsible for them under the Animal Welfare Act. This means that you will be liable if a dog injures someone or damages their property while you are in charge. If you don't have the right insurance in place, you could be looking at costly legal fees and compensation claims.
That's why dog-related business insurance usually includes public liability insurance, which covers legal fees, as well as personal or property damages. Professional indemnity insurance cover is also often included, as it protects you if you're accused of negligence. Lastly, employers' liability insurance is mandatory if you hire anyone or use volunteers, including family and friends.
How to Accept Payments for Your Dog Business
Once you've set up your dog business, you need an easy way to get paid. Whether you're working from home or visiting the homes of customers, you'll need a simple and reliable way to accept all forms of payment.
One of the easiest ways to get paid for your work is to get a card reader. That way, you can accept payment in more forms than just cash, and payments only take seconds to process.
SumUp offers a range of card readers that suit businesses of any size. They all support multiple payment methods, including:
Debit cards
Credit cards
Once you purchase a SumUp reader, there are no extra costs or recurring charges - all you pay is a 1.69% fee per transaction.
You can also take payments remotely with SumUp. If you have the SumUp App, it’s easy to create payment links, so customers can pay you from anywhere. Just enter an amount and click 'Payment Links'. From there, you can share the link with customers via SMS, social media or email.
As a small home-based business, it can be a challenge to keep your personal and professional finances separate. The best way to accomplish this is to open a business account.
The SumUp Business Account is free and gives you 24/7 access to any money made using our products or services. You can easily keep track of your business's earnings and keep your personal funds out of it.
Plus, SumUp Business Account holders enjoy next-day payouts. This means whenever you process a transaction with your SumUp card reader, your money will be paid directly into your Business Account the following day, even on weekends and holidays.
Ready to Turn Your Passion for Dogs into Profit?
Starting a dog business can be both fulfilling and profitable. Whether you're launching a dog walking business in the UK, setting up a dog grooming business at home, or becoming a dog trainer, the demand is there.
With minimal startup costs, high earning potential, and flexible working hours, you can build a successful dog business from home today.
Starting a UK Dog Business FAQ
What type of dog businesses can I run from home?
You can start various dog businesses from home, including dog walking, grooming, training, pet sitting and home boarding. Other options include selling homemade dog treats, pet photography or offering canine massage therapy.
Do I need a license to start a dog business from home?
It depends on the business type. Dog walking and training don't require a license, but dog grooming, boarding and breeding may need local council approval. Always check UK regulations to ensure compliance, especially for animal welfare and business insurance requirements.
How much does it cost to start a home-based dog business?
Startup costs vary. Dog walking and training businesses can start with under £500 (for insurance, equipment and marketing). Dog grooming businesses may need £2,000 for professional tools, courses and setup.
How can I market my dog business?
Promote your business through social media, flyers, pet service directories and local ads. Create a website or Facebook page with testimonials and pricing. Offer discounts for referrals and partner with vets, shelters and pet stores.
