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How to Start a Dog Training Business: 2024 Step-by-Step Guide

Image Credit: Tadogami, Shutterstock

Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Dogster Team

Pet ownership has risen dramatically in the past few years, as people turned to cats and dogs as a means of combating the loneliness and anxiety caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. And, even during times of recession, pet owners are willing to fork out for their favorite animals.

As well as buying food and other equipment, this means there are individuals and families across the world willing to pay for other pet services, including training. A dog training business does pose certain challenges, but it can also be very rewarding, both financially and professionally. And, depending on how you structure the business, it can be quite easy to establish.

Here, we look at some of the basic steps you will need to take to start your own dog-training business.

• Pros & Cons of a Dog Training Business

Before you embark on getting certified or building up a client base, you need to ensure that a dog training business is really the right thing for you. There are several benefits, but there are also some drawbacks.

• Flexibility: To some extent, setting up your own dog training business offers flexibility. You can decide when to offer classes and where to provide your services.
• Rewarding: Whether you train service dogs or help new owners integrate their puppies into the family, it can be very rewarding to see your four-legged clients develop and blossom.
• Growth: There is room for growth in the dog training market. You could eventually hold multiple classes over various locations, and potentially even take on other trainers to further expand your offerings.
• Inexpensive: You may already have most of the equipment you need to start dog training. And, if you need to pay for premises, you can use the money you make from the classes, which means minimal upfront costs. If you train at your own home, or your client’s homes, the costs could be even lower.
• Clients: You might get into dog training because of your love for dogs, but you will have to deal with people just as often as their four-legged companions, in most cases.
• Aggressive Dogs: Depending on the type of training you offer, it is likely that you will come up against aggressive dogs at least from time to time. These are the ones that tend to need training the most, and you need to be prepared to deal with them.
• The 8 Steps for Starting a Dog Training Business
• 1. Decide on Your Expertise

If you have decided that a dog training business is right for you, the next step is to determine the kind of training you will offer.

• Group Training : Group training classes, which are sometimes also known as puppy classes, invite multiple owners and their dogs to partake in classes at the same time. You could have just a couple of participants or as many as a dozen or more. As well as teaching some basic commands, these types of classes are great for socializing dogs and they help teach owners how to train their dogs at home.
• Private Training: Private training means visiting clients in their own homes, or having clients come to you. This type of service is often used for reactive or aggressive dogs, but can also be useful for anxious dogs that wouldn’t be able to concentrate in a group training environment. Rates are higher for private training, per dog, but you can only see one client at a time.
• Service Dog Training: Service dogs range from guide dogs and hearing dogs to therapy and emotional support dogs, and they need extensive training before they can be placed with their long-term handlers. It can take a long time and a lot of experience to become a recognized service dog trainer.
• Canine Sports: Agility is perhaps the best known of the canine sports, but other sports like flyball and herding or nose work classes also exist. Although these are sports classes for dogs and owners to get involved in, the dogs, and their owners, do require some training.
• Behavioral Training: Behavioral training is similar to private or group training, but it concentrates on specific issues or types of dogs. For example, you can offer training to reactive dogs that are aggressive while on their leash, or dogs with specific phobias. With the number of new dog owners that are returning to the office, there is a call for behavioral training for dogs with separation anxiety, too.
• 2. Find the Finance

No matter what type of training service you offer, you are going to need some level of financing. Even if you visit your clients’ homes and use their equipment, you will need money to pay for insurance and marketing, networking, and your website.

Total costs can vary from $1,000 or so, for a very basic setup, to $20,000 or more for more complex businesses. If you have savings you can use, this may be an option. Alternatively, put a business plan together and speak to banks and other financers to help arrange the money you need.

• 3. Get Qualified and Certified

You don’t need formal qualifications or certifications to become a dog trainer, but they will benefit you. Formal training will help ensure that you have the skills and knowledge to do the job, and some clients may only be willing to work with a qualified instructor.

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers offers courses that require you to gain experience as well as pass a multiple-choice exam.

• 4. Get Experience

Having some experience is a good idea. Again, it is something that you can show to potential clients when trying to persuade them you know what you are doing, and if you want to become a service dog trainer, you are unlikely to get very far without this experience. Volunteer at shelters or relevant businesses to help get the experience.

• 5. Get Insured

You will need insurance to be a dog trainer. At the very least, you need liability insurance. You will likely also need business insurance, bailee coverage for any injury or illness caused to dogs under your care, workers’ compensation insurance if you have other people working for you, and auto coverage to protect the van or other vehicle that you drive.

• 6. Decide On Premises

Depending on the type of training you will offer, there are various options when it comes to the premises you will use. If you are training service dogs , you will likely do this from your own home.

Puppy classes can use a local community center or hall, which you should be able to rent out for an hour or two, while private training can be offered in your client’s homes.

• 7. Buy Your Equipment

You likely won’t need much equipment for training. You may need leashes and harnesses for certain cases, and if you are setting up canine sports classes, or will introduce these as elements to your training group classes, you will need the appropriate equipment.

You may also want to invest in a vehicle and it is always best to make sure you have everything you need before you start your business, rather than buying the equipment as you discover you need it.

• 8. Market Your Business

Set up a website, print flyers and business cards, and network with local veterinarians and pet supply businesses. Talk to groomers and other pet professionals, too. The more relationships you can establish with related businesses, the more you can benefit one another.

You can recommend a good groomer to owners who need one, and a friendly groomer can recommend your training services if they meet a dog that perhaps isn’t as well-behaved as it can be.

Once you have a website, post on social media with photos of your four-legged clients (get permission first) and use local groups to help spread the word.

Dog training is a potentially rewarding career path , but there aren’t that many job opportunities even for a qualified trainer. Setting up your own dog training business may be the most fruitful path, although there are challenges to establishing and running any type of business. Determine the type of training you will offer , get insured, and make sure you have all the equipment you will need, before you start.

Always be professional and helpful with your two-legged clients, too, because this will help with word of mouth, and look for ways to use social media to help spread the word even further.

• See Also:  Petco Dog Training Review: Pros, Cons & Verdict
• https://www.k9ofmine.com/how-to-start-dog-training-business/
• https://stepbystepbusiness.com/business-ideas/start-a-dog-training-business/
• https://www.fitbark.com/blog/how-to-start-a-dog-training-business-a-complete-guide
• https://www.thehartford.com/business-insurance/pet-dog-trainer-insurance

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About the Author

Nicole Cosgrove

Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her whole life so it's no wonder she has dedicated her career to helping them through what she loves best: learning, writing, and sharing knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, a cat, and a human. With a degree in Education and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole wants to help pet parents and pets around the planet to live happy, safe, and healthy lives.

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Dog Training Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Dog Training Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Dog Training business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Dog Training businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Dog Training business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center is a startup dog training company located in Portland, Oregon. The company is founded by Sandra Jackson, a dog trainer who has trained over two hundred dogs during the past ten years as an employee of the Complete Dog Training Company. Sandra has garnered several national and state awards as a dog trainer for specific breeds of dogs and she has groomed and trained over twenty national award-winning, pedigreed dogs in various competitive kennel club shows.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will provide:

• At-center or In-home training programs and plans
• Professional trainers with proven track records
• Puppy training packages
• All breeds, sizes, shapes, ages
• Remote collar training/no leash training
• Advanced K-9 Command training
• Personalized in-home consultations for troubled dogs

Customer Focus

All dogs and dog owners are welcomed at Wagging Tails Dog Training Center. Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will target dog owners and those who have puppies, have a newly-acquired dog or are preparing for a dog. Dogs who need training by law enforcement officers will be trained in an intensive 12-week program. Also, purebred dog clubs and other kennel clubs will be targeted.

Management Team

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will be owned and operated by Sandra Jackson. She has hired two dog training professionals to serve with her, Jay Taylor and Kendra Samuelson, both of whom have experience in dog training and operational or administrative skills, as well.

Sandra Jackson holds a doctoral degree in veterinary medicine, earned at Auburn University in Alabama. She has trained over two hundred dogs during the past ten years as an employee of the Complete Dog Training Company. In addition, Sandra has garnered several national and state awards as a dog trainer for specific breeds of dogs and she has groomed and trained over twenty national award-winning, pedigreed dogs.

Jay Taylor is an experienced “remote collar” dog trainer with over six years of experience training off-the-leash K-9 dogs for law enforcement personnel. He is known and beloved by his clients for his caring warmth and dedication in training K-9 dogs to perfection. Jay also has experience in the oversight of professional kennels and maintenance; he will be assuming those duties upon startup of the Wagging Tails Dog Training Center.

Kendra Samuelson has been a dog trainer for five years, highly proficient at training small dogs in all areas of obedience through commands. Her style is to lead with gentleness, backed by a strong “parent-leader” role for the dog owner. She is also experienced in training center administration and will run the main office for the Wagging Tails Dog Training Center.

Success Factors

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly qualified team of Wagging Tails Dog Training staff professionals.
• Comprehensive menu of services and plans for dog training via a number of avenues that best suit the dog owners and breed of dogs.
• Wagging Tails Dog Training Center offers the best package pricing for in-center or in-home training in the city of Portland. Their pricing structure is the most cost effective compared to the competition.
• Specialized law-enforcement programs are offered for officers and K-9 working dogs.

Financial Highlights

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its Wagging Tails Dog Training Center. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing dog training equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for Wagging Tails Dog Training Center. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Kennel and office space build-out: $20,000
• Kennel equipment, dog training supplies, and materials: $10,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for Wagging Tails Dog Training Center.

Company Overview

Who is wagging tails dog training center.

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center is a newly established, full-service dog training business located in Portland, Oregon. Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will be the most reliable, cost-effective, and efficient choice for private dog owners and professional dog owners in Portland and the surrounding communities. Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will provide a comprehensive menu of plans, formats, and services for any dog owner or prospective dog owner to utilize. Their full-service approach includes a comprehensive set of dog training plans and pricing structures.

  Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will be able to manage dog training kennels, all training outdoor facilities, dog training processes and boarding of dogs, as needed. The team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in several methods of dog training, kennel care, all-breed training and puppy consultations, as well. Wagging Tails Dog Training Center removes all headaches and issues of dog training and ensures all issues with dog obedience are carefully removed during the training process. Wagging Tails Dog Training Center takes care of the hardship of dog training while delivering the best customer service.

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center History

Since incorporation, Wagging Tails Dog Training Center has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Wagging Tails Dog Training Center, LLC to transact business in the state of Oregon.
• Has a multi-year contract in place with a purebred dog kennel club for training services. Wagging Tails Dog Training Centers will manage to set up its kennel and operations areas of 30,000 square feet.
• Reached out to numerous contacts to include Wagging Tails Dog Training Center.
• Began recruiting a kennel staff of Wagging Tails Dog Training Center and office personnel to work in human resources, administration and bookkeeping areas of service.

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center Services

The following will be the services Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will provide:

• Day to day dog-training management

Industry Analysis

The dog training industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $825 million by 2028. The growth will be driven by two areas of sector growth: law enforcement trained dogs for duties such as search and rescue, and privately owned dogs requiring training for obedience and good behavior for owners and families. Dog training companies are expected to increase in number and size, as more families travel without their dogs and require kenneling, and more individuals are choosing to make dogs part of the family in significant ways. This requires extensive training for “remote collar” capabilities, no-leash obedience and other forms of well-designed training that keeps the dog “on the team” and “on the job” at all times. Costs will likely be reduced, as dog kennel supplies have become more available, particulary with green products that are environmentally approved.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

All dogs and dog owners are welcomed at Wagging Tails Dog Training Center. Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will target dog owners and those who have a puppy, have a newly-acquired dog or are preparing for a dog. Dogs who need training by law enforcement officers will be trained in an intensive 12-week program. Also, purebred dog clubs and other kennel clubs will be targeted..

Customer Segmentation

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Private owners of dogs in need of training
• Law enforcement officers in need of training for K-9 working dogs
• Kennel club owners who need pre-show training for purebreds

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company follows:

Cop Dogs Training Grounds

Cop Dogs Training Grounds exists as a direct competitor to Wagging Tails Dog Training Center, as staff members train law enforcement K-9 dogs for service duty. The dogs are housed in kennels during training, which typically consists of 8 weeks in duration. Cop Dogs Training Grounds is located in Beaverton, Oregon on 10 acres of property. Private and group dog training sessions are not offered, nor are other services offered other than K-9 dog training and development as working dogs for life.

Cop Dogs Training Grounds promises to deliver fully-trained and equipped dogs for law enforcement service and guarantees are offered if dogs do not obey commands. They provide housing in kennels, food, veterinary services, and professional trainer services. They follow a multi-step process and have a motto that indicates their client target market: “Trained to Serve 24/7.”

Les Enfants Puppy Training Service

Les Enfants Puppy Training Service is a direct competitor of Wagging Tails Dog Training Center. Les Enfants Puppy Training Service takes 9 week to 16 week puppies into in-kennel boarding and care while training them for private owners. Training includes: potty training, crate training, remote collar training and “off leash” training. Owners may choose 4-week or 8-week programs, depending on the length of training desired or the temperament of the puppy. The Les Enfants Puppy Training Service offers a money-back guarantee and has been in business for three years as a C-corporation. There are 4 employees who work with the puppies on a daily basis, with 2 additional employees in the administration office. Located in Newhall, Oregon, the facilities are mostly on lawn or clipped turf with kennels that are heated or cooled, as needed.

CoExist Dog Trainers

CoExist Dog Trainers is a direct competitor to Wagging Tails Dog Training Center. CoExist Dog Trainers works with dogs of all sizes and age levels, providing in-kennel training or private in-home training. The company has been in business for two years and specializes in crate-training dogs for owners who are absent during the daytime hours. Packages and pricing services are offered, with recommendations for care when dogs are anxious or acting out in the evenings when owners return. CoExist Dog Trainers is a sole proprietorship, owned by Mackie McCall, who has been a dog trainer and poodle breeder for twenty-five years. The property is two acres with ten large kennels in the outdoor area. Two part-time employees assist Mackie McCall in breeding and raising dogs. The philosophy of CoExist Dog Trainers is that dogs should be free to run and play in any environment; therefore, training is centered on the owner’s responsibility to contain dogs in public places as the dogs run freely and without leash constraints.

Competitive Advantage

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

• Comprehensive menu of services and plans for dog training via a number of avenues that best suit the dog owners and their furry friends.
• Specialized law-enforcement programs for officers and K-9 working dogs.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled personnel, including a veterinarian, that is able to provide a comprehensive set of training options, including packages for all types of dogs and working K-9 dog programs.
• Unbeatable pricing to its clients, including long-term contracts for professional training of purebred and K-9 dogs. They will offer the most cost-efficient training in Portland, Oregon.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Wagging Tails Dog Training Center is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center has built up an extensive list of contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise for clients. They have communicated to Sandra Jackson that they have been very satisfied with her service as a dog trainer and veterinarian during prior years and would like to continue using the services of Wagging Tails Dog Training Center when it opens. In addition, one long-term contract has already been signed for Sandra Jackson as a trainer of a purebred kennel club dog show trainer. This will assist in word of mouth referrals and additional attention focused with potential clients at the new Wagging Tails Dog Training Center.

Professional Associations and Networking

Sandra Jackson is accredited by the National Association of Veterinarians and has been networking for the past several years at association conventions. She will continue to build interest via networking. Jay Talor and Kendra Samuelson will also join and network with contacts they have to assist in the process.

Print Advertising

Print advertising will be employed in the form of direct mailers to every household in the Portland, Oregon area. This effort will reach dog owners with dog-training needs and include the surrounding areas of Portland in the launch effort.

Website/SEO Marketing

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will utilize their website as a primary driver of marketing. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all their services that Wagging Tails Dog Training Center is able to provide. The website will also list the descriptions of packages and pricings for each plan of training. Jay will manage the website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “Portland dog training” or “dog training near me,” Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Wagging Tails Dog Training Center. Operation Functions:

• Sandra Jackson will be the Owner and President of the company. She will oversee all staff and manage client relations. She has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Kendra Samuelson will be the Office Manager who will manage the office administration, client files, and accounts payable. In addition, she will be a Dog Trainer and provide puppy consultations, as well.
• Jay Taylor will be the Senior Dog Trainer and specialize in K-9 dog training. He will oversee and be responsible for the kennel maintenance and general grounds of the facilities.

Milestones:

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

• 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease grounds and office location space
• 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the Wagging Tails Dog Training Center
• 6/1/202X – Finalize contracts for Wagging Tails Dog Training Center clients
• 6/15/202X – Begin networking at association events
• 6/22/202X – Begin moving into Wagging Tails Dog Training Center grounds and office
• 7/1/202X – Wagging Tails Dog Training Center opens for business

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center will be owned and operated by Sandra Jackson. She recruited Jay Taylor and Kendra Samuelson to be dog trainers and to hold the specific roles of kennel director (Jay) and training center administrator (Kendra).

Sandra Jackson holds a degree in veterinary medicine, earned at Auburn University in Alabama. She has trained over two hundred dogs during the past ten years as an employee of the Complete Dog Training Company. In addition, Sandra has garnered several national and state awards as a dog trainer for specific breeds of dogs and she has groomed and trained over twenty national award-winning, pedigreed dogs. She has successfully secured a long-term contract with a professional kennel club for dog training at the new Wagging Tails Dog Training Center.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Wagging Tails Dog Training Center are the fees they will charge to the private dog owners, purebred owners, and kennel club contracts for their services. Most other dog trainers charge hourly prices that are more expensive than the package and price plans offered by Wagging Tails Dog Training Center for their services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff, run and operate the Wagging Trails Dog Training Center. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials, as needed.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Wagging Tails Dog Training Center is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its property management business. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of packages sold and contracts in place per month: 112
• Average fees per month: $50,000
• Office lease per year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement.

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Dog Training Business Plan FAQs

What is a dog training business plan.

A dog training business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your dog training business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Dog Training business plan using our Dog Training Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Dog Training Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of dog training businesses , some examples include: Puppy Training, Dog Bootcamp, In-Home Training, and M&A Dog Training.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Dog Training Business Plan?

Dog Training businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Dog Training Business?

Starting a dog training business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Dog Training Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed dog training business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your dog training business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your dog training business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Dog Training Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your dog training business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your dog training business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Dog Training Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your dog training business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your dog training business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising.

How to Start a Dog Training Business: A Complete Guide

Dog Training

WRITTEN BY:

Kayla Fratt

March 15, 2019

K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

If you’re considering a career that merges pets and business, starting your own dog training business is a great option to consider.

According to Business Insider , pet care is a “recession-proof industry.” Even better for business, 7 in 10 Millennials are pet owners – showing the pet industry isn’t slowing down any time soon.

All that said, dog training isn’t exactly an easy field to break into.

On top of requiring a certain level of knowledge regarding dog behavior, dog trainers also need to navigate all the hurdles of owning their own business (including taxes, payroll, and healthcare). Many trainers experience serious burnout and compassion fatigue from the stress of trying to help pets with serious issues and seeing dogs in tough situations.

Dog trainers are also expected to navigate the socially fraught landscape of teaching people to change their lifestyles- never an easy task!

I’ve owned my own dog training business, Journey Dog Training, since 2012. Today I’m happy to share what I’ve learned over the years. Let’s cover what you need to do to start your own dog training business – learning from my triumphs and mistakes as we go!

Dog Training Education: How Do I Get Started?

One of the most challenging aspects of starting a dog training business is figuring out what sort of training you’ll focus on, and then pursuing the right education and certification for that route.

As you consider getting into dog training, decide which areas of training you’ll focus on.

Your business, paradoxically, will likely do better if you find a niche and stick to it. My most successful trainer friends only work on aggression cases with a bite history, separation anxiety cases, puppies, or agility.

Don’t be afraid to get specific!

In fact, niching down will make your marketing, messaging, and education much easier. It simply isn’t possible to do well at all areas of dog training right away as a single person!

Choose a Dog Training Area of Expertise

There are all kinds of canine areas of expertise you can specialize in as a dog trainer. Here are a few ideas:

1. Puppy Training, Socialization, and Troubleshooting

This is a pretty logical place to start out for most new trainers, though it’s no small order to turn puppies into well-rounded adults!

2. General Obedience and Manners

This is the other most common set of dog owner problems that can be addressed by even relatively new trainers. You mostly teach new skills, rather than fixing problems.

3. Therapy Dogs, Service Dogs, and/or Emotional Support Animals

This fast-growing industry is a great next step for an experienced trainer. Service dogs must be able to obey a long list of cues in incredibly diverse situations, so be prepared for high-level training if you go this route.

4. Adventure Training and Around Town Training

Another common niche is helping take dogs beyond basic obedience to being extra-well-behaved canine citizens of the world.

Most trainers who focus on this will also offer other training, but off-leash obedience and brewery training are incredibly popular classes in places like Colorado.

5. Dog Sport Training

If you really love teaching complex, fast behaviors, you might want to consider training competitive and performance dogs. Most sport dog trainers focus on one or two main sports rather than covering them all.

It’s best to have some titles on your own dog (meaning you’ve already placed successfully in a given sport) before attempting to teach others.

• Protection sports

6. Reactive Dogs

Cities are full of dogs that bark and lunge at other dogs. An increasing number of facilities are now offering reactive dog group classes in addition to private sessions. This is a great introduction to behavior modification because the problem of leash-reactive dogs is so common.

7. Dogs with Phobias or Fear Issues

Many skilled trainers largely focus on helping abused, neglected, fearful, anxious, and phobic dogs live more confidently. This line of work requires a ton of patience and compassion, but it’s very rewarding.

8. Dogs with Separation Anxiety

This complicated behavior issue really benefits from experienced trainers.

Separation anxiety is a challenging but fairly common panic disorder. Helping owners work through this problem with their pets can be life-changing for both humans and canines!

We have our own (basic) guide about resolving separation anxiety – you may want to give it a read if you’re considering this line of training work.

9. Aggressive Dogs

Working with aggressive dogs , especially dogs with a bite history (meaning they’ve already bitten someone) is incredibly difficult.

You need to be prepared to almost never touch your client’s dogs (not exactly the cuddliness of puppy classes), some of your client’s dogs may be euthanized, and you may even end up involved in court cases and legal proceedings. It can be emotionally devastating and even scary work.

Think carefully about whether or not you’re actually prepared for this subset of dog training.

Generally, it’s best to start teaching puppies or general obedience before moving to competitive sports or behavior issues. This approach lets you practice running your own business and teaching people without as much pressure.

2. Become a Dog Training Pro (Through Classes or Mentorship)

Once you know what aspect of dog training you want to focus on, it’s time to get yourself educated! There are a few main ways of getting experience as a dog trainer:

Option 1: Find a trainer who is willing to mentor you

This is the “traditional” way to get started in dog training, and it still works today. The tricky part is finding an experienced local trainer who you work well with and who has time to take you under their wing.

PROS: You can get amazing, hands-on, intimate feedback this way. You can build relationships quickly and start working with clients right away. Some trainers also offer small-scale trainer schools, helping you get the benefit of a set curriculum while also getting small class sizes.

CONS: If you and your trainer don’t click, this can fall apart quickly. Your education may be sporadic or incomplete based on your schedules, your trainer’s client focus, and how good at teaching your trainer is. It may take a while before you start earning money.

Option 2: Enroll in a dog training school or program

More and more dog training schools are popping up these days. Some are self-study, others are in person.

Some of the most reputable include:

• Karen Pryor Academy : $5,300 for six months of school
• Academy for Dog Trainers : $6,825 for a two-year, part time school
• Companion Animal Science Institute : $2,600 Canadian dollars for 500 hours of school
• Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Trainers : $2,950 for online or $6950 for in-person
• CATCH Canine Trainers Academy : $1,443 to $5,250 depending on course level
• Peacable Paws: $1,500 for a variety of six-day intensives in different specialties, including service dogs or aggression.

PROS: You get the benefit of professional teachers and a set curriculum. You’ll know how long training will take and you often graduate with a certificate. Schools are also excellent for networking! 

CONS: They can be quite expensive (generally several thousand dollars), and quality varies from each school to the next. Some schools are a great introduction but should be paired with hands-on experience. It may take a while before you start earning money. Some ultra-expensive schools teach terribly outdated training methods and are actually meant to earn money for the course provider, not make you into the best trainer you can be.

Avoid schools that promote “pack-based” training methods, “traditional training” and other potentially harmful and punitive training.

These outdated training methods were falling out of prominence until recently, but have made a damaging resurgence. Pack theory, dominance theory, and the corrections-based training techniques have been thoroughly debunked and shown to be harmful.

Option 3: Get a job as an assistant trainer at a large local school or animal shelter

This is the best option for tight budgets and slightly more experienced trainers-to-be.

PROS: You learn while you earn a paycheck! When done correctly, this approach has all of the hands-on benefits of mentoring with the networking components of a school. Shelters in particular offer you the chance to see a huge number of new cases in a very short time. 

CONS: Your main job is actually caring for the animals in front of you, so you’ll get a lot less time with actual instruction from trainers. You might spend time cleaning kennels or walking dogs rather than actually learning how to train. Many of these jobs have odd hours or poor pay, so you might still struggle financially while getting started.

Option 4: Take enough classes with your own dog that you could teach the material.

Many people get started in training because of their own dog – I don’t know many agility instructors who didn’t start as agility students, and many behavior specialists started because of their own dog’s problems.

PROS: This approach progresses at your own pace. You know you love your niche, because you’re in it as a student before you launch your business. Once you’re a trainer, you’ll really understand what it’s like to be a student.

CONS: This approach only works if you’ve got your own dog and a good training facility nearby. While this approach is a great way to get started, you’ll generally have to combine it with mentorship or another approach to really be ready to take on other clients. 

The important thing is that you shouldn’t try to become a dog trainer without getting lots of hands-on, deliberate practice. Good trainers need to be able to apply scientific principles to thousands of different dogs, so reading a bunch of books and training a few of your friend’s dogs doesn’t count as a complete education.

How I Became a Dog Trainer

Of course, many trainers get their start using a blend of these methods. I started out shadowing two different local trainers (#1) to get started teaching basic obedience and manners. I then fostered dogs and took classes with them (#4) to build my skills with working on behavioral issues.

After about two years of working with obedience and moderate behavioral issues, I got a job at a shelter. There, I really learned how to work with serious behavioral challenges. I continued shadowing another trainer to get more practice working on aggression cases.

I’ve taken several classes through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants to continue deepening my knowledge in specific types of cases, and I read a new dog training book almost every week.

Now I readily take on most behavior cases – and I don’t do much with obedience and manners anymore.

An important note: your education as a dog trainer is never complete. Good dog trainers will attend seminars and workshops, pursue new certifications and classes, and keep reading and learning forever! Just in 2018, I took seven different courses on dog training to keep deepening and expanding my knowledge.

Dog Training Certifications: Do I Need Them?

Dog training is an entirely unregulated field – many states have no laws preventing animal abusers from owning dog training businesses. You don’t actually need any kind of certification to become a dog trainer, andhis creates a serious credibility problem in the industry.

I firmly believe that seeking credentials is one of the best ways to foster trust in the dog training industry.

General Dog Training and Behavior Certifications

There are a variety of different certifications and memberships to consider. A few top picks include:

1. International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)

This organization is geared towards animal behavior consultants – trainers who primarily work with serious behavior problems like aggression and separation anxiety. They’re not the right fit if your goal is manners, puppies, or sports.

Members must keep up with rigorous continuing education requirements and are given the opportunity to brainstorm with a network of behavior consultants and veterinary behaviorists.

The IAABC offers four different membership levels for different experience levels. You can join as a supporting, affiliate, associate certified, or certified level. The certified level is one of the most respected certifications in dog training.

At the Certified Dog Behavior Consultant level, members must pass an exam, write case studies, collect references from vets and clients, have over 500 hours of in-person training, over 400 hours of coursework, and write discussions and recommendations for four example cases.

Membership costs between $115 and $235 for certification plus the first year of dues, depending on your certification level.

If you’re interested in behavior, join at the supporting level while you learn more!

2. Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)

The CCPDT is geared towards trainers as well as behavior consultants. Like the IAABC, it offers a few different membership levels based on your experience.

The CPTD-KSA certification is one of the only certifications that requires you to demonstrate your skills in front of an evaluator. Like with the IAABC, you’ll be expected to commit to positive reinforcement and continuing education.

Membership and certification costs between $225 and $385 depending on certification level.

3. Karen Pryor Dog Training Course

Karen Pryor Trainers are certified after graduating from the Karen Pryor Academy professional mentorship program.

The advantage of this program is that it comes with the certification – you get education and certification in one go! KPA is well-recognized as a starting point for trainers.

KPA costs $5,300 for the six month education and certification.

4. Association for Professional Dog Trainers

The Association for Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) is a group that offers great networking opportunities as well as some solid educational resources for beginner trainers.

It’s $89 – $160 per year to become a member, which is less than most other certificate programs detailed here. However, it’s worth noting that certificates from here don’t hold a ton of weight. As a membership group though, it’s absolutely worth considering.

5. Pet Professional Guild

The Pet Professional Guild is another great organization for networking with other trainers and learning from more experienced industry pros.

At just $55 – $70 per year to join, it’s financially achievable no matter what your budget. However, as with the APDT, the certificate isn’t worth much and the real value comes from networking with other members.

Other Dog Training Certifications to Consider

There are many other dog training certifications out there to help you stand out from the crowd.

While it’s generally best to start with one of the five groups above, you can pursue many others, including:

• Canine Good Citizen Evaluator is a great starting point for manners, therapy, or service dog work. While the Canine Good Citizen exam (CGC) isn’t nearly as rigorous as therapy dog work, it’s an excellent starting point and a fantastic end point for manners or obedience classes!
• Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT) is only awarded upon completion of Malena DeMartini’s exhaustive program – but it’s the best-respected stamp of approval for separation anxiety experts.
• Certified Canine Fitness Trainer (CCFT) is an excellent certification to pursue if you’re interested in dog sports. This certification comes after completion of a long online course and an intensive in-person weekend. While you certainly won’t be a vet afterwards, you’ll be well-equipped to help clients create fitness plans and assist in injury recovery.
• Fear Free Certified Trainers are recognized for their commitment to using fear-free training methods.
• Certified Nose Work Instructor is aimed at recognizing trainers who are skilled in teaching scent detection classes.
• Dog Sport Judge . You can become certified as a judge in a variety of different dog sports, as well. Your choice in those certifications will depend on the venue you aim to judge in. Being a judge isn’t the same as being an instructor, but the title will certainly earn you some credence as you grow your business!

Your certification and education level will dictate what sort of cases you’re equipped to take on and how much you should charge for them.

I t’s irresponsible to start charging $100 per hour to work on separation anxiety cases when you’re not experienced enough , and it’s downright dangerous to do the equivalent with aggression.

While it’s possible to start teaching basic manners or puppy classes without expensive certifications, a professional membership will help you learn and grow regardless of your goals.

What Dog Training Services Will You Offer?

Aside from your specific client niche (discussed above), you will also need to determine how you’ll organize your classes. If you don’t plan on renting or purchasing a training facility, you’ll likely be limited to private training.

Purchasing or leasing a training facility for group classes can be a huge financial and logistical undertaking. The vast majority of trainers start by teaching private lessons first, then leasing space for just a few classes, and only then actually getting their own space.

It’s also important to research the laws behind doggie daycare facilities in your state . In Colorado, for example, there are fairly strict laws surrounding the housing facilities in doggie daycares and overnight boarding situations – which would affect a trainer who offered day training or board-and-train in Colorado.

Here are some common structures for your dog training services:

Group Classes

This is what most people think of when they imagine dog training – six or so dogs in a room learning classroom-style.

This training style is great for teaching basic manners, dog sports, and even reactive dog classes – but it’s not well-suited at all for aggression, separation anxiety, or service dogs.

You also need to be prepared to handle several dogs and handlers at once, which requires a high level of focus and adaptability as a trainer.

PROS: You can help more dogs this way. Depending on your pricing structure and schedule, you may also make more money per hour with group classes.

CONS: You will need to be able to rent space for this setup in most areas. Some cities may allow outdoor classes, but this is logistically difficult due to weather, noise, distractions, and more.  When pricing out group classes, be sure to take into account what you’ll pay for a rental fee.  

Private Training

Most trainers, myself included, get started with private training. Generally, you’ll drive to the client or meet in another location to work one-on-one for their training goals.

This flexible approach works for most types of training, but it’s especially essential for aggression cases, fearful dogs, and service dog work.

PROS: You can select clients carefully to match your skill level, geographic area, and schedule. Your clients benefit from your undivided attention and personalized support.

CONS: You’re constantly driving from one client to the next. If a client cancels or reschedules, your whole schedule may be disrupted. You may progress more slowly as a trainer because you’re working with fewer dogs overall.

Day Training

A fast-growing industry combines daycare and training into something that closely resembles school for children.

Owners drop their dogs off in the morning, and the trainer runs daily training sessions. This approach allows the trainer to “install” basic behaviors and get to know the dogs extremely well.

This approach is well-suited to puppies, around the town training, and basic manners . For this method, you need a facility and generally need staff help as well.

Another approach is to come and train the dogs while the owners are at work – similar to private training, but without the owner present. This is far less common.

PROS: You can focus on training for most of the day, rather than teaching owners how to train. Dogs get to socialize with each other and learn to settle around distractions when you’re not actively training.

CONS: Since the owners aren’t present, you’ll need to figure out how to do “hand-off sessions” to ensure that the owners know how to handle their dog and their dog’s new skills. If a dog is struggling with a specific issue, it can be challenging to address the problem when you have a room full of other dogs that need attention.

Board-and-Train

In a Board-and-Train scenario, the dogs stay at your facility or home for several weeks while you train them.

Like day training, this approach temporarily removes the owner from the picture. This allows the trainer to “install” behaviors before handing them off.

Some trainers do this in a kennel facility, others take just a few dogs at a time into their homes.

Starting out fostering dogs really prepares you for this sort of work, especially if you focus on basic manners.

PROS: You have much more control over when and where you train board-and-train dogs. For example, you’ll be able to work on leash walking in tightly controlled environments that ensure success. Then you can gradually add difficulty to the training for a dog. This approach is well-suited to many behavior concerns as well as service dogs who require intensive training.

CONS: There have been a lot of horror stories about dogs being abused or neglected in Board-and-Train scenarios, making owners rightly nervous. Another issue is that some owners expect perfection after these programs, and it can be difficult to teach the owners how to follow through with the training you’ve started. 

Online Training

Training dogs online can be tricky, and it’s certainly not a great place to start out. You’ll need to be able to understand a client’s needs and communicate new skills to them without ever being in-person to demonstrate. But more and more people are open to this service, and it’s got a lot of great benefits.

PROS: You can reach a much broader audience and lower your prices with this approach, because you have much lower overhead cost. Plus, you can work from home!

CONS: It can be difficult to make yourself known with online dog training. It also requires some basic SEO knowledge, having a full-fledged website, and a general level online literacy  Dealing with some behavior problems is incredibly difficult, as you’re fully instructing rather than training. You also don’t get to actually meet your clients’ dogs!

How to Market Your Dog Training Business

When you’re an entrepreneur, just knowing how to train a dog isn’t enough. You also have to know how to market yourself.

This means truly understanding what your skills are, how you stand apart from the competition, and why owners are looking for someone like you.

There are some basic steps that you’ll have to cover to get started with your dog training marketing plan. Of course, it’s best to ensure that your certifications and education are up-to-snuff before you get going here.

1. Set Up a Yelp Account

Yelp is still a go-to way for people to research businesses. Visibility on the site is a great early step in your marketing process. Creating a Yelp business account is pretty simple:

• Visit biz.yelp.com
• Click the big red “Get Started” button
• Follow the instructions on the page.

2. Set Up a Google My Business Account

You know how when you Google a business, there’s often a box on the right-hand side of the page with their hours, contact info, and some reviews? That’s thanks to Google My Business.

Like Yelp, this is relatively easy to set up.

• Log in to your Google Account or create one. This will be associated with your business – so don’t use the screen name you created in 2003.
• Go to Google.com/business .
• Click “Start Now” in the top right-hand corner.
• Input the information requested – be sure to be complete here.
• Verify your account using one of the methods offered. This might mean waiting for a physical postcard in the mail!

Having your Google Business account set up also means that you’ll turn up for local search results in your area when people Google topics like “dog training schools”.

Definitely don’t pass up getting your Google Biz account set up (and don’t forget to ask clients for reviews, as those favorable star ratings go a long way on Google)!

3. Set Up a Thumbtack and/or Nextdoor Account

Both of these sites exist to help connect people with their community to get things done. As a trainer, you can post your services and respond to jobs with a bid. Depending on your area, one or both of these services might be a popular way to find clients. Both of these services are optional, but they’re a good way to find locals.

Check out Nextdoor.com and Thumbtack.com to get started – they both have setup wizards that make things easy!

4. Create a Business Website

In today’s day and age, almost everything starts with a Google search – and that means your business needs a website. Unless you’ve got deep pockets to start, I recommend just making your own website rather than paying for one.

Your main options are:

SquareSpace. Great for most small, local businesses. Easy to use and setup, with a handy built-in wizard that can set you up with a gorgeous, professional looking website quickly.

WordPress. The better option for those who are a bit more tech-savvy. You’ll have much more control over design. This guide can walk you through the process , but basically we recommend:

• buying your domain through Godaddy
• using WPX for hosting (it’s who we use, and their customer service is incredible)
• GeneratePress for your theme (but there are tons of options out there)

NOTE: Regardless of which option you choose, make sure you purchase your own domain rather than taking the free one that the one provided free (k9ofmine.com vs k9ofmine.wordpress.com / k9ofmine.squarespace.com) – it makes you look much more legitimate.

What Info Should Your Dog Training Website Include?

• A Picture Of You. A photo of you (and your dog too) helps potential customers connect with you more, rather than just reading about a faceless anybody.
• Your Certifications. Discuss your qualifications and any courses you’ve completed.
• Your Experience With Dogs. Be sure to cover any relevant experience you’ve had with dogs – that means mentorship programs, shelter volunteering, etc.
• Testimonials. Testimonials can be hugely powerful, so be sure to show them off on your website! If you’ve had a few clients who seem very happy with their results, ask them if they’d be willing to write a testimonial you can publish on your website. Asking for Yelp or Google Business reviews is also a smart idea.
• Pricing. Posting your prices and packages clearly online also helps reduce client window-shopping.
• Your Service Area. Spell out which areas of your city you work in most frequently and the radius you’re willing to travel.
• Your Class Schedule. If you’re teaching regular classes, post that schedule where it’s easy for people to find!
• Your Contact Information. Make it incredibly easy for people to find this vital information, including your phone number and e-mail address.

In addition, if you choose to use a piece of dog training business software to organize your clients and classes (which will become essential as your business grows), make sure you are using a website provider that integrates well with your selected software.

5. Grow a Community Online With Facebook Groups

Facebook groups are a great place to start making a name for yourself. There are tons of dog training Facebook groups – or you can start your own for free.

Most groups don’t allow direct selling, so be sure to offer more free advice and be truly helpful rather than sell (unless the group is OK with you directly pitching your services). You can use Facebook Groups to showcase your knowledge, and some members will naturally become clients as a result.

Joining local Facebook groups is another great way to network. When I first moved to Denver, I joined groups like “Colorado Progressive Reinforcement Trainers,” “Colorado Dog Trainers Network,” “Positive Dog Training Colorado,” and more to help meet other trainers.

Building a community can help you find mentors and get referrals quickly.

I’d also recommend joining dog business marketing groups, which can help you learn marketing tips from others in pet-related businesses. I actually run the Progressive Dog Trainers Marketing Powerhouse Facebook group – join us!

6. Network with Veterinarians and Dog Walkers

Connecting with vets and dog walkers is important, too! Many successful trainers closely partner with other local dog-based businesses. Just ensure you’re not stepping on the toes of another local trainer by trying to make this connection.

A vet friend once told me that bringing in donuts is a great way to get the vet’s attention!

Generally, just make it known that you’re open for business, what you’re qualified to help with, and where people can find you.

I find that making your niche clear makes it much easier for other trainers to refer to you (oh, she’s the local separation anxiety expert)!

7. Offer Referral Bonuses

Offer referral bonuses – give vets, trainers, dog walkers, and others a kickback if they send a client to you. This might be 20% of the first lesson or a flat fee. It’s also good to offer a signup bonus for new clients.

For example, I used to give other trainers 20% of my first lesson (usually $20) if they referred me to the client. The client also got 30% off her first lesson – this meant my take-home amount was only 50% of my posted price, but I got way more client referrals this way!

Dog Training Business Plans

You need a business plan if you’re going to be a business – not just a training plan!

I highly recommend looking at Click and Repeat or DogBiz for business planning help while you’re getting started. DogTec offers amazing dog training plans for many of their programs, meaning you’ll have curated handouts ready to go on day one! I still use many of these handouts for my clients today.

For a free business plan template, you can check out this one from BPlans . Your business plan will be long (the sample above is over 40 pages) and it will feel like a lot of work – but it will really help you visualize your goals, who your clients will be, how you’ll reach your clients, and how you’ll actually make your business succeed.

For a slightly simpler fill-in-the-blank business plan, click here .

Business plans may seem like a chore, but they’re immensely helpful for planning and budgeting your new canine business venture!

Dog Training Business Insurance

As a trainer, it’s only responsible to have business insurance. You’re working with people’s pets, and dog training business insurance will help cover you in the event that something goes wrong. Dogs can escape and get hurt, even if you’re incredibly responsible.

Business Insurers of the Carolinas is the go-to dog training business insurance (almost everyone I know uses them). You’ve got to be a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers to get the insurance, but it’s some of the most affordable and comprehensive on the market.

Insurance can seem expensive at first, but it’s the responsible thing to do! It’s not worth the risk to go without it.

Dog Training Business Cards

Business cards are great for feeding word of mouth. Try to carry them in your treat pouch when you’re out and about with your own dog – that’s how I got many of my “walk-up” clients.

Here are a few designs you can start with:

Check out these designs and more on Vistaprint.com.

Dog Training Business Name Ideas

Of course, it’s important to have a name for your new dog training business. Trying to think up a creative name for your dog training business is tons of fun!

Some tips to get you started:

• Keep it short and memorable. Long and complicated business names won’t stick as well in clients’ minds. Also avoid a name that requires you to spell out the wording, or is spoken differently than how it is written. (For example, K9 of Mine isn’t the best business name because you have to explain to people that “it’s K and 9, not canine.”)
• Think of what you want to embody in your business. I chose Journey Dog Training for my own dog training business because I wanted to evoke the idea of adventure and that training is a journey. I originally wanted the name Cognitive Canine because I’m a science geek, but the name was taken!
• Choose words that reflect your target audience. If you plan on mostly working with aggression cases, “pup” or “doggo” seems inappropriate and insensitive. Keep in mind that “K9” often invokes the idea of police or military trainers – this can be a plus or a minus, depending on your goals.
• Avoid misleading wording. If you’re not a certified dog behavior consultant or board-certified behaviorist, avoid using the word “behaviorist” in your business title.
• Check for competition or other businesses. While it’s certainly cute to use a dog-themed word in your business name, ensure you Google the name first to make sure it’s not taken.

Even if the name is available, check other local trainers to make sure you’re not too similar to them. If there’s already a “Paws and Praise” trainer near you, you might not want to name your business “Paws and Reward” or “Pets and Praise.”

Some other words to get your creative juices flowing:

• Paw / Pawsitive
• Good Boy / Good Girl
• Four-footer

Have you started a dog training business or are considering starting one? What other steps did you take to help your dog training business succeed? We’d love to hear your tips in the comments!

Also make sure to check out our guide to starting a dog walking business if you’re considering other careers for dog lovers !

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Hi, This article is wonderful. I was even happier to see that the educational institute I am talking and considering to enroll was listed, Catch Canine Trainer Academy. I trained part time for a few months at a pet store and I loved it. I am soon to retire with an HR background and I prefer working with dogs and their owners. This articles has given me valuable information to move forward. Thank you very much!

So glad you enjoyed it, Millie!

Thank you for a very informative and great article! I learned so much and appreciate all the great detailed information that I know will help me start my journey to a successful dog training business! I was a professional pet sitter for over 8 years then turned the reins over to my daughter. I love working with dogs and miss it a lot so I thought my next step could be a dog trainer. I get such a thrill at watching dog and owner connecting and creating a wonderful bond that I want to be able to do that with clients as well! Again, thank you!

Glad you found the article helpful, Angie! Best of luck on your journey to becoming a trainer!

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Dog Training Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 2,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their dog training businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a dog training business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Dog Training Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your dog training business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Dog Training Business

If you’re looking to start a dog training business, or grow your existing dog training business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your dog training business in order to improve your chances of success. Your dog training business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Dog Training Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a dog training business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

Personal savings is the other most common form of funding for a dog training business. Venture capitalists will usually not fund a dog training business. They might consider funding a dog training business with a national presence, but never an individual location. This is because most venture capitalists are looking for millions of dollars in return when they make an investment, and an individual location could never achieve such results.  With that said, personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for dog training businesses.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

If you want to start a dog training business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your dog training business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of dog training business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a dog training business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of dog training businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the dog training industry. Discuss the type of dog training business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of dog training business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of dog training businesses:

• Puppy Training: this type of business focuses on training dogs while they are still puppies, teaching them basic obedience.
• Dog Bootcamp: this type of dog training is where dogs with more serious behavioral issues are boarded for an extended period of time in order to correct ingrained behavior.
• In-Home Training : this type of training is for people whose dogs may not do well around other dogs or for whom it isn’t convenient to travel, so the trainer visits their home to train their dog(s).
• M&A Dog Training

In addition to explaining the type of dog training business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, number of dog training graduates etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the dog training industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the dog training industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your dog training business plan:

• How big is the dog training industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your dog training business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your dog training business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: puppy owners, rescue dog owners, busy corporate owners, and families.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of dog training business you operate. Clearly, puppy owners would respond to different marketing promotions than rescue dog owners, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most dog training businesses primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other dog training businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes doggy daycare, dog walkers and purveyors of dog training books. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other dog training businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be dog trainers located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of dogs do they train?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide better or more flexible training services?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a dog training business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of dog training company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to dog training, will you provide dog products, grooming services, or doggy daycare?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your dog training company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your dog training business located in a busy retail district, shopping plaza, home, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your dog training marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your dog training business, including marketing to new clients, attending training conferences, training dogs and meeting with prospective clients.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to train your 50th dog, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your dog training business to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your dog training business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing dog training businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in dog training or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you train ten new dogs per month or per quarter? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your dog training business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a dog training business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your training location lease or descriptions of your training programs.  

Putting together a business plan for your dog training business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the dog training industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful dog training business.

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Dog Training business plan?

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Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.  

Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.

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How to Write a Dog Training Business Plan

So, you’re an expert in the world of dog training and have decided it’s time to start a dog training business. You know you have the skills and the passion, but you’re unsure how to get your own dog training business up and running. Well, you’ll need to have a business plan before launching your company. This guide walks you through how to write a dog training business plan.

7 Steps on How to Write a Dog Training Business Plan

1. write an executive summary.

All business plans start with an executive summary, which is like a quick rundown of your entire business plan. The executive summary should be brief yet detailed enough to give the reader a general understanding of how you hope to run a successful dog training business.

An executive summary includes:

• Your mission statement and company goals
• A summary of your company plans
• An outline of your company’s business structure
• A look into your business strategy, such as your competitive advantage and target customers
• An overview of your financial plans

2. Describe Your Company

Next, you’ll want to describe your new dog training business and discuss what makes it different from other dog training businesses.

You’ll want to provide technical details, such as:

• The business address and the location of your dog training center
• The business website URL
• The business registered name and business license number
• The hierarchy of the management team and any unique skills they have

3.  Describe Your Services and Products

Go into detail on all the dog training services you’ll be offering. As a dog training business, you may provide:

• Dog training for individual dog owners
• Dog training classes for other dog trainers
• Training for dog walkers
• Dog training certifications
• Sub-services, such as dog sitting and dog grooming

Additionally, use this section to answer some questions about your service offering: Will you provide puppy training services? Will you offer group or private lessons or a combination of the two? Will you sell dog training books and other products to supplement your services?

4. Industry and Competitive Analysis

A business plan isn’t complete without some thorough market research into the industry you plan to enter. The dog training industry and pet industry can be quite competitive, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into. This section should cover the following:

• How big is the dog training industry in terms of annual revenue?
• Is the dog training industry projected to grow or decrease in the next 5, 10 or 15 years, and by how much?
• Who are the main competitors in your area, and how much market share do they own?
• How much market share do you think is available for you to take over?
• What are the trends impacting the industry?
• What is your competitive advantage to stand out?
• Are there needs in the market that aren’t being met?
• How will your pricing compare to others in the market?

5. Marketing Plan

Your marketing strategy is what’s going to get new and returning customers in the door. You’ll need to identify your target market and how you’ll reach these potential customers.

A dog training marketing plan should include the following:

• Your detailed marketing spend
• How you’ll spend your marketing budget
• The ROI on your marketing budget
• The social media platforms you’ll have a presence on

6. Financial Plan

Lastly, you’ll need to include a financial plan to show you understand the costs involved in running your business. Your financial plan should be detailed, showing you did thorough research into all expenses, such as the costs of dog training business insurance, rental space and more. Identify your start-up expenses and where the money would be coming from. For example, your personal savings may cover a portion of the start-up costs, while a business loan might cover the rest.

Include relevant financial statements in this section, such as:

• Cash flow statement
• Sales forecast
• Income statement
• Balance sheet
• Financial projections
• Statement of shareholders’ equity

After you finish your business plan, have a few people review it. It’s always helpful to get a fresh perspective on your plans so people can contribute their ideas and help you feel more confident in your plan going forward.

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How to write a business plan for your dog training business.

Starting a dog training business is a great idea because it is an evergreen industry that is always in demand.

Additionally, it is a rewarding career that allows you to work with animals and help owners build strong relationships with their pets.

But, first thing first, you need to write a business plan.

Creating a business plan is essential for any new project, as it helps to anticipate potential risks and opportunities, and provides a roadmap for success. It also serves as a helpful tool for securing financing and attracting potential investors.

In short, a good business plan will help ensure the profitability of your dog training business .

What are the necessary elements for a business plan for a dog training business? What's the ideal arrangement for the structure? Which key financial data points should be included? How can I develop an efficient business plan in less time?

In the lines below, we will address all these questions!

One last thing: starting your business plan from scratch is optional.

You can download our business plan for a dog training business and adapt it to your project.

Crafting an elaborate business plan for a dog training business

Should you write a business plan for your dog training business.

Yes, you should write a business plan for your dog training business.

Creating an effective business plan will help you to:

• learn about the dog training market
• stay in the loop with the industry's latest trends
• identify what makes a dog training business thriving
• understand the training needs and goals of dog owners seeking professional guidance
• create a solid value proposition for your canine obedience school
• examine competitor market share
• find competitive advantages for your dog training business
• find a business model that secures a healthy net income
• implement a well-structured and calculated action plan
• assess potential risks involved in operating a dog training business, such as dog bites, liability for pet behavior, and client satisfaction

Our team has created a business plan for a dog training business that is designed to make it easier for you to achieve all the elements listed.

How to structure a business plan for a dog training business?

If done well, your business plan will have everything you need, including content, numbers, and financial information. It must be presented in a structured format, to make easy to read and digest.

When we built and designed our business plan for a dog training business , we made sure to set it up correctly.

It's made up of 5 sections (Opportunity, Project, Market Research, Strategy and Finances).

1. Market Opportunity

The section at the beginning is called "Market Opportunity."

Our team has compiled vital data and metrics about the dog training business, providing insights and trends for entrepreneurs in the pet training and behavior industry.

This section is revamped twice a year for updated data.

2. Project Presentation

The second part is where you introduce the "Project" of your dog training business. You can describe the training methods you specialize in, behavior modification techniques, obedience training, puppy socialization classes, one-on-one sessions, and the unique value proposition that helps dogs and their owners build a strong bond and improve canine behavior.

Also include a short description about yourself at the end of this section.

Discuss your love for dogs, your expertise in dog training, and how you plan to provide effective and positive training solutions. Highlight your personalized training programs, your use of positive reinforcement techniques, and your dedication to helping owners build strong bonds and well-behaved companions through your dog training business.

We've put together language for you in our business plan. Adjust it as necessary to suit your idea.

3. Market Research

Moving on, there's the "Market Research" section.

The purpose of this section is to introduce the market segments for your dog training business.

It includes a competition study, outlining other dog training providers in the area. Your business's expertise and competitive advantages in dog training methods are also highlighted. A customized SWOT analysis is included.

4. Strategy

Within the "Strategy" section, a detailed plan spanning three years is outlined, specifying the necessary initiatives to make your dog training business highly profitable.

Moreover, this section includes a marketing strategy, a risk management approach, and a Business Model Canvas adapted to a dog training business.

5. Finances

In conclusion, you'll find the "Finances" section, which provides all the necessary financial information for your project.

How to draft an Executive Summary for a dog training business?

The Executive Summary is a brief and condensed overview of the business plan for your dog training business.

Keep it concise and limited to 2 pages. Include only the essential aspects of your plan.

This is the beginning of your business plan that investors will see first. It should spark their interest and motivate them to read the rest of the plan.

In the Executive Summary of your dog training business, provide responses to the following: what services does your dog training business offer? who is your target audience? are there other dog training businesses in the area? what funding do you need?

How to do the market analysis for a dog training business?

The market study of your dog training business helps you understand external factors such as customer demands for canine obedience services, competition within the pet industry, and emerging trends in positive reinforcement training.

By conducting a thorough market study, a dog training business can understand dog owner needs, provide effective dog training services, optimize pricing strategies, and execute targeted marketing campaigns, ultimately leading to a loyal customer base, increased training sessions, and a prominent position in the local pet training industry.

Here's what we've incorporated into the "Market Research" section of our business plan for a dog training business :

• figures, data, and statistics related to dog training businesses, including popular training methods, dog behavior trends, and the rise of positive reinforcement
• a compilation of potential market segments for a dog training business
• the competitor analysis
• the potential competitive advantages for a dog training business

The key points of the business plan for a dog training business

What's the business model of a dog training business, business model of a dog training business.

A dog training business's model revolves around providing professional dog training and behavior modification services to dog owners. Revenue is generated through training sessions, offering obedience classes, or specialized training programs.

The business model focuses on employing skilled trainers, understanding canine behavior, providing personalized training plans, building positive reinforcement techniques, and fostering strong relationships with clients and their dogs.

Success depends on expertise in dog training methods, effective marketing to target dog owners, delivering tangible results, maintaining a positive reputation, and providing ongoing support and education to dog owners.

Business model ≠ Business plan

Avoid conflating "business plan" and "business model."

A business model is like a structure that explains how a company makes money and provides value.

In a business plan, you delineate your business model employing a resource called the Business Model Canvas.

And, of course, there is a Business Model Canvas (already completed) in our business plan for a dog training business .

How do you identify the market segments of a dog training business?

Market segmentation for your dog training business involves dividing your potential customers into different groups based on their dog training needs, goals, and demographics.

These categories may include factors such as obedience training, behavior modification, puppy training, or clients seeking specialized training (e.g., service dogs, agility training).

By segmenting your market, you can offer a range of training programs and services that cater to each segment's specific requirements. For example, you might provide basic obedience training for owners looking to establish a foundation of commands, offer behavior modification programs for dogs with specific behavior issues, specialize in puppy training and socialization classes, or offer advanced training for service dogs or dogs participating in agility competitions.

Market segmentation allows you to effectively target your marketing efforts, showcase your expertise in specific training areas, and deliver personalized dog training experiences that help owners achieve their unique goals.

In the business plan for a dog training business , you will find a detailed market segmentation that helps you understand your audience and their preferences.

How to conduct a competitor analysis for a dog training business?

Without surprise, you won't be the only dog training business in your area. There will be other professionals offering obedience training and behavior modification for dogs.

To develop a solid business plan, you must carefully analyze your competitors, considering their traits, strengths, and weaknesses.

Be aware of their weaknesses (such as ineffective training techniques, inconsistent results, or poor customer satisfaction).

Why is it crucial to notice these aspects? Because these weaknesses can impact the effectiveness of dog training businesses.

By focusing on these areas, you can provide professional and positive dog training methods, offer tailored training programs and classes, and deliver personalized attention and support to both dogs and their owners, positioning your dog training business as a trusted and preferred source for dog training and behavior modification.

It's what we call competitive advantages—enhancing them is crucial for a standout business.

Here are some examples of competitive advantages for a canine trainer: experienced and certified dog trainers, positive reinforcement methods, tailored training programs.

How to draft a SWOT analysis for a canine trainer?

A SWOT analysis can help identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in order to develop a successful strategy for starting a dog training business.

As you can guess, there is indeed a completed and editable SWOT matrix in our business plan for a dog training business

The strengths for a dog training business

The "S" in SWOT denotes Strengths, which are the project's areas or aspects that provide a competitive advantage.

For a dog training business, potential strengths could include knowledge of canine behavior, positive reinforcement techniques, an engaging training program, and a strong customer service team.

The weaknesses for a dog training business

W stands for Weaknesses, which are the areas or aspects of the project where improvements are necessary.

For a dog training business, potential weaknesses could include lack of qualified trainers, limited resources, inadequate marketing, and limited geographical reach.

The opportunities for a dog training business

The letter "O" in SWOT signifies Opportunities, highlighting the favorable conditions or chances for the project's progress.

In the case of a dog training business, potential opportunities include providing one-on-one training classes, offering group classes, providing in-home training sessions, and offering online courses.

The threats for a dog training business

The "T" in SWOT represents Threats, which are external factors that may negatively impact the project.

How to develop a marketing plan for a canine trainer?

Including a marketing strategy in your business plan is necessary to capture customers and generate profits.

A canine trainer can connect with dog owners in need of professional training and behavior modification services by developing a targeted marketing strategy that emphasizes the trainer's experience, positive training methods, and successful transformations in dogs' behavior.

Dog owners won't trust your dog training business without effective marketing; emphasizing your expertise in dog behavior, positive training methods, and successful outcomes is crucial.

Have you considered implementing creative marketing initiatives for your canine trainer services? Organize dog training workshops or obedience classes, collaborate with local pet stores or shelters for referral partnerships, and utilize social media platforms to showcase dog training tips and success stories.

No worries if you don't have many ideas for the marketing strategy of your project.

How to build financial projections for a canine trainer?

A successful business plan requires comprehensive financial data in order to accurately forecast future performance.

In your business plan, you will have to make revenue projections for your dog training business.

To make a lasting impression on banks or investors, it is essential to incorporate a revenue forecast that is relevant and credible into your business plan.

Our financial plan for a dog training business is user-friendly, providing automated validations that allow you to rectify any assumptions swiftly. This guarantees the creation of credible projections with ease and assurance.

Without a doubt, you'll need to come up with a basic budget for starting your dog training business. Don't forget any expense (we have listed them all in our financial plan !).

By conducting a break-even analysis, you can assess whether your dog training business will be profitable or not.

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How to Start a Profitable Dog Training Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 05, 2024

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a dog training business plan., 3. develop a dog training brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for dog training., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for dog training services., 8. acquire dog training equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for dog training, if required., 10. begin marketing your dog training services., 11. expand your dog training business..

Before starting a dog training business, it's crucial to understand the market dynamics. A thorough market analysis will provide insights into customer demand, competition, and potential areas for growth. Here's how to approach this initial step:

• Analyze the local demand for dog training services by looking into the number of dog owners, dog adoption rates, and the general pet spending habits in your area.
• Identify your target market, which could include first-time pet owners, busy professionals, or families with specific dog training needs like obedience, agility, or behavioral correction.
• Examine your competitors by researching other dog training businesses in the vicinity. Note their services, pricing, marketing strategies, and customer reviews to find gaps in the market or areas for improvement.
• Consider the pricing models for dog training services and determine what you can offer that provides value while remaining competitive.
• Explore potential partnerships with local pet stores, veterinarians, and shelters to create a referral network and expand your customer base.
• Stay informed about industry trends and new dog training methods to ensure your services remain relevant and appealing to dog owners.

Are dog training businesses profitable?

Yes, dog training businesses can be profitable. With appropriate marketing and budgeting, dog trainers can generate steady income from their services. Dog training companies typically offer classes, private sessions and group classes. Additionally, many companies offer dog-sitting services or even overnight stays for pet owners when they are out of town.

Starting a dog training business requires careful planning and strategic thinking. A well-crafted business plan is essential to outline your vision, set goals, and define the steps needed to achieve success. Here are the key components to include in your dog training business plan:

• Executive Summary: Provide a brief overview of your business, including your mission statement, services offered, and your unique selling proposition.
• Market Analysis: Research and describe your target market, including potential clients and competitors, and identify trends and opportunities in the dog training industry.
• Marketing and Sales Strategy: Outline how you will attract and retain customers, detailing your marketing channels, pricing strategy, and sales tactics.
• Services Offered: Describe the types of training programs you'll provide, such as group classes, private lessons, or specialized training, and how they will benefit your clients.
• Operations Plan: Detail the day-to-day operations, including location, equipment needed, and staffing requirements.
• Financial Projections: Provide an estimate of startup costs, projected income, and expenses. Include a break-even analysis and future financial goals.
• Appendix: Attach any additional documents that support your business plan, such as resumes, certifications, or testimonials.

How does a dog training business make money?

A dog training business can make money by charging customers for their services. These services can include one-on-one classes, group classes, doggy daycare, and grooming. A business might also offer additional services such as pet sitting and walking, or even certified obedience classes. An example of a target audience for this type of business could be individuals looking to start or expand a family pet-owning lifestyle, or individuals with newly adopted dogs that need basic obedience training before they enter the home.

Establishing a unique and appealing brand is crucial to standing out in the dog training industry. Your brand is the face of your business and communicates your values, expertise, and what makes your services unique. Here are key steps to develop a strong dog training brand:

• Define your brand identity by choosing a memorable name, logo, and color scheme that reflect the ethos and professionalism of your dog training business.
• Identify your target market and tailor your brand voice to speak directly to the needs and preferences of your ideal clientele, whether they are families, busy professionals, or show-dog owners.
• Formulate a unique selling proposition (USP) that highlights what sets your training methods apart from competitors, such as special techniques, personalized programs, or a focus on specific types of behavior modification.
• Create a consistent brand experience across all platforms, including your website, social media, business cards, and training materials, to build recognition and trust with potential clients.
• Engage with your community through local events, partnerships, and social media to showcase your brand in action and build a network of brand ambassadors.

How to come up with a name for your dog training business?

When considering a name for your dog training business, there are a few key components to take into consideration. Firstly, you need to decide what type of training your practice focuses on and whether you’re targeting for a specific breed of dog or multiple breeds. You can also consider adding your own personal name or an alliteration to the title. Secondly, be sure to remain creative and memorable, as these two elements can set your business apart from the competition. Thirdly, consider the keywords associated with dog training and use those in your name when possible. Lastly, while naming your business is an important part of the process, don’t be afraid to take some time and brainstorm until you come up with something that resonates with you and your customers.

Once you've laid the groundwork for your dog training business, it's time to make it official. Registering your business is a critical step that legitimizes your operations and may offer legal and tax benefits. Follow these essential steps to ensure your business is registered correctly:

• Choose a business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation) that best suits your dog training business and understand the implications for taxation, liability, and ongoing requirements.
• Register your business name with the appropriate state authority, ensuring it's unique and meets state naming guidelines. This may involve a DBA (Doing Business As) if you're operating under a name different from your own.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, especially if you plan to hire employees.
• Register for state and local taxes, including sales tax and any specific business licenses or permits required to operate a dog training business in your area.
• Check if you need specific permits related to animal handling or zoning laws for running the business from your home or a separate location.
• Consider consulting with a business attorney or a professional accountant to ensure all legalities are addressed and to help navigate complex regulations.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore vital resources designed for dog training entrepreneurs, featuring insights on industry dynamics, operational excellence, and strategies for business expansion:

• The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT): Offers educational materials, networking opportunities, and a professional certification program to enhance the skills and credibility of dog trainers. Visit APDT
• The International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP): Provides access to a global network of professionals, continuing education, and the latest industry news to support the growth of dog training businesses. Visit IACP
• Dog Biz Success: An online platform offering dog training business owners courses, coaching, and resources focused on starting, running, and growing a successful dog training enterprise. Visit Dog Biz Success
• Pet Business Magazine: A publication that covers market trends, innovative products, and management advice specific to the pet industry, including segments on dog training services. Visit Pet Business Magazine
• Modern Dog Trainer Blog: Provides practical advice, business tips, and the latest research for dog trainers looking to expand their knowledge and effectively manage their training business. Visit Modern Dog Trainer Blog

Starting a dog training business requires not only a passion for dogs but also ensuring compliance with local regulations. Before you open your doors, it's crucial to secure all necessary licenses and permits to operate legally and safely. Here are the key steps to guide you through the process:

• Research Local Regulations: Different areas have varying requirements for dog training businesses. Contact your city or county clerk's office to determine what specific licenses and permits you need.
• Business License: Apply for a general business license through your local government. This is typically the first step in becoming a legally operating business.
• Specialty Permits: Depending on the services you offer and your location, you might need additional permits. For example, if you plan on having multiple dogs on your property, a kennel license may be required.
• Zoning Compliance: Check with your local zoning office to ensure your business location is zoned for dog training activities.
• Liability Insurance: While not a permit or license, obtaining liability insurance is essential for protecting your business and its assets.
• Health Department Permits: If you're selling any dog-related products or providing grooming services, you might need a health department permit.
• Continuing Education: Some regions require dog trainers to complete certain training courses or certifications. Stay informed about ongoing educational requirements.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a dog training business?

In order to run a dog training business, you will need to obtain several licenses and permits from the local government. Depending on where you live, the exact documents you will need will vary. Generally speaking, you will need a business license and any necessary permits issued by your local municipality to legally operate in your area. Additionally, if you are hiring staff or running a commercial facility, you may need to obtain additional permits such as occupational licenses or zoning permits. Lastly, if you are using certain methods of dog training that are regulated in your area (such as using electric shock collars), then you may need to get additional licenses or permits specific to this practice.

Opening a business bank account and securing funding are crucial steps in establishing the financial foundation of your dog training business. These steps help in managing your finances effectively and ensure that you have the necessary resources to grow your business. Follow these guidelines to set up your business for financial success.

• Choose a Bank: Research banks to find one that offers favorable terms for small businesses. Consider fees, services, and the convenience of branch locations.
• Gather Required Documents: Prepare necessary documents such as your business license, EIN, and ownership agreements to open your account.
• Open Your Account: Visit your chosen bank to open a business checking account, which will help separate personal and business finances.
• Explore Funding Options: Depending on your financial needs, explore funding options like small business loans, credit lines, or investors.
• Develop a Budget: Create a comprehensive budget that includes startup costs, operational expenses, and potential income to guide your funding decisions.
• Consider Business Credit Cards: Apply for a business credit card to help manage expenses and build your business credit history.
• Maintain Financial Records: Keep meticulous records of all business transactions to simplify tax reporting and monitor your financial health.

Setting the right pricing for your dog training services is crucial to attracting clients while ensuring your business is profitable. Consider the value you provide, the costs involved, and what the market can bear. Here are some key points to guide you in determining your service fees:

• Research local market rates: Look at what competitors charge to ensure your prices are competitive.
• Factor in your expertise: If you have certifications or special skills, your prices can reflect that expertise.
• Calculate your costs: Include expenses such as travel, equipment, and insurance to ensure your pricing covers your costs.
• Offer different pricing tiers: Provide a range of services at varying price points to cater to different client needs and budgets.
• Consider package deals: Bundling sessions can encourage clients to commit long-term and can provide a discount for bulk purchases.
• Value your time: Ensure your hourly rate or session fees compensate you fairly for the time spent training and preparing.
• Adjust as needed: Be open to revising your pricing based on feedback, demand, and your growing reputation.

What does it cost to start a dog training business?

Initiating a dog training business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $6000 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your dog training business.

Starting a dog training business requires not just skill and patience, but also the right equipment and supplies. These items will help you effectively train various breeds and temperaments, as well as ensure the safety and comfort of the dogs in your care. Below is a list of essential dog training equipment and supplies to acquire.

• Training Collars and Leashes: Invest in quality training collars, harnesses, and leashes of different sizes to cater to various dog breeds and training needs.
• Clickers: Clicker training is a positive reinforcement technique; having a set of clickers on hand is essential for marker training.
• Treats and Treat Bags: High-value treats can motivate dogs during training sessions, and treat bags keep these rewards easily accessible.
• Training Mats or Beds: Designated mats or beds can be used to teach dogs to settle and stay in one place.
• Agility Equipment: If you plan to offer agility training, items such as tunnels, jumps, and weave poles are necessary.
• Instructional Materials: Training manuals, books, and videos can be useful references to stay informed on the latest training techniques.
• First Aid Kit: Always be prepared for emergencies with a fully stocked canine first aid kit.
• Portable Water Bowls and Containers: Keeping dogs hydrated during training, especially in hot weather, is crucial.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a dog training business:

• dog treats - Price range $5-$20
• clicker - Price range $2-$10
• leash - Price range $5-$20
• collar - Price range $5-$20
• training manual - Price range $10-$50
• AI software - Price range $100-$500
• computer & printer - Price range $400-$2000
• business cards - Price range $10-$50
• social media accounts/ website hosting- Price range $30-150/year
• dog behavior consulting software-Price range $200-1000/year

As you embark on the exciting journey of starting your dog training business, it's essential to consider the protection that business insurance can offer. Not only is it prudent to safeguard your operations, but in many cases, certain types of insurance may be required by law or recommended for liability reasons. Here are some steps to guide you through obtaining business insurance for your dog training venture:

• Research local and state insurance requirements for dog training businesses to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Consider the types of insurance that might be relevant, such as general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, property insurance, and worker's compensation if you have employees.
• Contact multiple insurance providers to compare coverage options and premiums. Be clear about the nature of your dog training business to get accurate quotes.
• Ask other professionals in the pet industry for recommendations on insurance companies and policies that have served them well.
• Review policy details carefully, paying close attention to coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions. Make sure the policy covers potential incidents that could occur during training sessions.
• Choose a policy that balances comprehensive coverage with reasonable premiums, and finalize your insurance purchase.
• Keep your insurance documents accessible and review your policy annually or whenever your business undergoes significant changes.

Launching a successful dog training business requires not just skill in training dogs, but also in marketing your services effectively. To attract clients and grow your business, you'll need to employ a variety of marketing strategies that showcase your expertise and reach your target audience. Here are some steps to get you started:

• Develop a strong brand: Create a memorable logo and tagline that reflects the quality and approach of your services.
• Build a professional website: Ensure your website is user-friendly, provides valuable content, and highlights your services and success stories.
• Utilize social media: Engage with potential clients by sharing tips, success stories, and live training sessions on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
• Network locally: Attend local events, join pet-related groups, and collaborate with pet stores and veterinarians to gain referrals.
• Offer promotions: Attract new customers with introductory offers, package deals, or discounts for referrals.
• Collect testimonials: Use positive feedback from satisfied clients to build trust and credibility with prospects.
• Invest in advertising: Consider paid ads on social media, Google, or local publications to reach a broader audience.

Once you've laid the groundwork for your dog training business and built a solid client base, it's time to think about expansion. Scaling up your business can involve a variety of strategies, from diversifying your services to reaching new markets. Below are some tips to help you grow your dog training enterprise:

• Offer additional services such as advanced training classes, specialized behavior modification sessions, or doggy daycare options.
• Collaborate with local pet businesses to cross-promote services. For example, partner with pet stores or vets to offer training classes on-site.
• Expand your geographical reach by offering online training sessions or creating downloadable training guides.
• Invest in marketing, both online and offline, to reach a broader audience. Utilize social media, SEO, and local advertising to increase visibility.
• Hire additional certified dog trainers to increase your capacity and offer more classes or private sessions.
• Consider franchising your business model to create new branches under your established brand.
• Continuously gather feedback from clients to improve your services and customer satisfaction, which can lead to referrals and repeat business.

Starting a Dog Training Business: The Ultimate Guide

So, you've got a passion for pooches and a knack for training? Here's your ultimate guide to starting a dog training business!  

• Benefits of starting a business
• Industry trends
• Making a plan
• Determining your services
• Setting your price
• Coming up with a name
• Getting insurance
• Registering your business
• Marketing strategies
• Growing your business

The Benefits of Starting Your Own Dog Training Business

Starting your own dog training business can be a deeply rewarding venture. You'll have the opportunity to be your own boss, taking the reins and making decisions that align with your core values and work style. Moreover, you'll transform your love for dogs and skill in training them into a career that meets a market need.  

Dog owners frequently seek professional help to properly train their dogs for obedience, agility, and even to overcome behavior issues. The dog training business is not just a profitable venture; it also allows you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of dogs and their owners.  

Current Dog Training Industry Trends

Just like any other industry, the dog training world also evolves with new trends and technologies. From modern training methods that emphasize positive reinforcement to the increased use of technology in training programs, staying abreast of industry trends can help you keep your business at the forefront.  

COVID-19 has also shaped the dog training industry in a unique way. With the surge in pet adoption during the pandemic, the demand for dog training services has also skyrocketed. Virtual training sessions have become increasingly popular, indicating a potential avenue to diversify your services.  

Organizations like The Academy of Pet Careers keep up with these trends, providing comprehensive education for future pet professionals. Participating in such programs can help you stay updated and relevant in the industry.  

Making a Plan

Before jumping into a new business, a solid business plan can help you avoid common mistakes and create some accountability in the early stages.  

A well-thought-out plan should include the following:  

• An understanding of your target market  
• Competitive analysis  
• Financial plan  
• Detailed Description of your potential customers  
• What services you will offer  
• Estimates of startup costs and projected earnings  

Answering these questions will provide a roadmap for your business. By putting your ideas on paper, it will help you think through your business more thoroughly. Once your business is up and running, you should reference your business plan at regular intervals to see where you stand compared to your benchmarks. There may be times when you need to rethink your business model and pivot to new opportunities.  

What Services Will You Offer

In dog training, there's a wide array of services you can offer. From basic obedience training to specific behavior modification training, agility training, puppy training, you need to decide what fits your skill set best. You could also consider offering specialized services like therapy dog or service dog training, which could differentiate you from other businesses.  

Your goal should be to find a niche that sets you apart. This will be different for every trainer. Based on your area, local competition, and your skillsets, you should be able to offer services that differentiate your business. Avoid copying your competition. This will make you a commodity and the only way to win in a competition between commodities is to be the lowest price. Offering a unique value allows you to set your price and carve out your own niche.    

Offering ancillary services like dog walking or pet sitting can also provide additional income streams that can supplement your core training business.  

How to Price Your Services

Pricing can be a balancing act. It's crucial to consider the market rates, the cost of doing business, and the value of your expertise. Take a look at what competitors are charging and understand why their prices are set that way. You could use different pricing models, such as hourly rates, package deals, or memberships. Each has its pros and cons, so choose what aligns best with your business plan.  

As a new business, you may be tempted to set your price lower than your competition. This is a good way to run your business into the ground. More established businesses have fine-tuned their business model and have a good understanding of costs and revenues. As a new business, it will be hard to compete with their cost efficiencies and you will most likely eat up all your profit.  

A safer bet is to match or price your services at the higher end. If you carve out a niche, this isn't hard to do because your customers won’t have any competition to compare you to.  

Coming Up with a Name for Your Business

This is where you have a lot of flexibility to express you and your brand. The first question to ask yourself when coming up with a name for your business is if you want the name to represent you or your business.  

Many successful trainers have built a brand around themselves and set themselves apart from the competition by being the local expert. If this is your goal, you may want to include your name in your business name. For example, “Joe’s Pawsitive Training” or something much cooler.  

On the other hand, if you want to grow a business that can scale with or without you, I recommend coming up with a catchy name that better describes your services and doesn’t include your name. For example, “Empowered Puppy Training”. Your focus should be catchy but also descriptive. If you get to abstract with it, customers may find it hard to recognize what you do.

Check out our list of 100+ dog training business names to spark some ideas.

Getting Insurance for Your Dog Training Business

Running a dog training business comes with specific risks. You might have to deal with an aggressive dog, or a dog might get injured during training. As such, getting insurance is vital.  

Liability insurance and business property insurance are types of coverage you should consider. You can reach out to any business insurance agent to obtain this. It is recommended that you price shop a few or work with a broker to get the best rates.  

Registering Your Business

Once you have a name, it's time to make your business official by registering it. The process may vary depending on your location, but generally, it involves choosing a legal structure for your business, filing necessary paperwork, and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN). You can register your pet business here .

This step is not essential for every new business on day one. Many trainers who operate small independent businesses will simply file their business income and expenses on their personal tax return. It is recommended that you speak with a licensed CPA to figure out the best type of business entity for you and your goals.  

Checking If a License Is Required in Your Area

Although there are no licensing requirements to be a dog trainer , some areas require dog training businesses to get a license. In most cases, licenses are required based on how many dogs at a time you will house on site. License or not, you should still consider a proper education and certification from a dog training school .  

It's crucial to research and comply with your local laws to avoid any legal issues down the line. A simple call to your local city can answer your questions. The department of Agriculture is usually the one responsible for overseeing any pet related licensing.  

Marketing Your Dog Training Business

Marketing is essential to spread the word about your dog training business and attract clients. Here's a deeper look into some effective marketing strategies:  

Branding and Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Your brand is more than just your business name or logo; it's the experience your clients get when they engage with your business. To create a strong brand, consider what makes your dog training business unique and how you want to be perceived by your potential clients. Do you specialize in training service dogs? Are you great at helping problematic dogs? Or perhaps you use unique training methods? This uniqueness becomes your USP, which differentiates you from your competitors.  

A professional, user-friendly website can serve as the home base for your business online. It gives potential customers an easy way to find and learn more about your services. Make sure to include clear descriptions of your services, pricing, contact information, and client testimonials. You can also maintain a blog to share useful dog training tips and advice. This can help improve your website's search engine ranking, making it easier for people to find your business.  

A Facebook page can be a good alternative for new businesses on a budget. Make sure to include business information such as hours of operation and forms of contact to make sure potential customers can reach you.  

Social Media

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube are fantastic tools for promoting your business. Regularly posting engaging content can help you build an online community. Share images or videos of your training sessions, success stories, or even simple day-to-day activities. Be sure to interact with your followers by responding to comments and messages in a timely and friendly manner.  

Using social media on a regular basis is a great way to build a community around your business and set the tone of your brand. On social media, the amount of work you put into it will determine your outcome. Organic posting on your business page may not get you new customers, but getting engaged in community groups and dog training pages can put you in front of customers.  

Partnerships

Partner with local pet shops, vets, or dog shelters to increase your visibility. You can leave your business cards or brochures at their locations, or even offer exclusive discounts to their customers. You might also consider organizing joint events or cross-promotions.  

Offline Marketing

Don't forget about traditional offline marketing strategies. Participate in local events or sponsor a local dog show. Deliver workshops or seminars about dog training in your local community. All of these activities not only promote your business but also establish you as an authority in the field of dog training.  

Referral Program

Happy customers are your best marketers. Develop a referral program that offers incentives to customers who refer your services to their friends or family. This could be a discount on their next training session or even a free session if they refer a certain number of clients.  

Remember, marketing is all about connecting with your potential customers and building relationships. Your passion for dogs and commitment to their well-being should shine through in your marketing efforts. With a little creativity and consistency, your dog training business will surely thrive.  

Growing Your Dog Training Business

Once you've established your dog training business, consider strategies for expansion. This could be offering new services, exploring new markets, or even franchising. Remember, customer retention is key to business growth, so focus on providing exceptional service that encourages referrals. Continuous learning, such as courses from The Academy of Pet Careers, can also help improve your training techniques and business skills.  

In conclusion, starting a dog training business can be a fulfilling and profitable career choice. As long as you're ready for hard work, continuous learning, and of course, lots of tail wags, you're well on your way to making your dog training business dreams come true!  

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to have a physical location for a dog training business.

While a physical location like a training center can be beneficial, it's not mandatory. Many dog trainers provide services at their clients' homes or public spaces like parks.  

Do I need to have prior experience in dog training to start this business?

While not necessary, having prior experience can provide you with valuable skills and credibility. Organizations like The Academy of Pet Careers offer comprehensive training programs for aspiring dog trainers.  

How can I differentiate my dog training business from competitors?

Unique services, specialized training, effective marketing, excellent customer service, and continuous learning can help differentiate your business.  

What kind of investment is needed to start a dog training business?

The investment can vary based on the scope of your business. Basic costs include training equipment, insurance, marketing, and possible licensing fees.

Is it necessary to hire staff when starting a dog training business?

While you can start solo, as your client base grows, you may need to hire additional trainers or administrative staff to manage the workload.

Related Dog Training Articles

• How to Become a Dog Trainer
• How Much Do Dog Trainers Make?
• What Is Positive Reinforcement Training?
• Guide to Dog Sports
• How to Choose a Dog Trainer
• Dog Training Cost
• 9 Questions to Ask a Dog Trainer
• Qualities of a Good Dog Trainer

Joseph Schifano

Joseph Schifano is the President of The Academy of Pet Careers and the Founder of DogNerdly.

With over 20 years of professional pet experience, Joseph began his journey as the owner/operator of a successful seven-figure pet care business. He later acquired The Academy of Pet Careers, aiming to elevate the quality of care provided by industry professionals. This position enabled him to connect with leading experts in the field and deepen his knowledge in all aspects of pet care.

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How to Start a Dog Training Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   April 11, 2024

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The COVID -19 pandemic was a driving factor in pet ownership in the United States. The ASPCA says 23 million Americans brought a new pet home in 2019, 90% of these being dogs. With so many new pups in family homes, pet training is becoming a booming industry.

According to Pet Educate , the U.S. dog training business market has a financial trajectory of $820 million by 2026. Globally, dog training has a current compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.6%. Not a bad time to join the dog training industry with your own dog training business, if you have a solid business plan. 

The three main areas of training new pet owners look for from a professional dog trainer are:

• Obedience 
• Special job (Seeing eye dog, search and rescue dog, police dog, etc.)

You can offer these as individual or group classes. Here, we’ll take a deeper look into how to start a dog training business, including required licenses, marketing tools, and even branding. 

1. Conduct Dog Training Business Market Research

Creating a seamless dog training business plan means investing in dog training business market research. There are two types of market research.

• Primary : First-person research including personal experiences. Visiting local businesses, chatting with local pet owners, and polling customers all fall under primary research.
• Secondary : Second-hand information through readily available sources is secondary research. This includes government reports, online reviews, and dog training industry statistics.

Some of the things to tally as you dig into how to start a dog training business research include:

• Current leaders in the local dog training business market
• The population of dog owners in town
• Popular dog training business services
• Consumer demographics (age, income, household, etc.)

These details give you a jumping-off point for your own business model.

Choosing the Right Dog Training Services for Your Business

Knowing your market helps you decide which services to offer through your dog training business. There are many ways to train dogs, including:

• Positive reinforcement : Rewards are offered for good behavior. Bad behavior is ignored.
• Clickers : A clicker is used to deliver noise to condition the dog. A reward is offered to reinforce the clicker. Eventually, the dog recognizes the clicker without the pet treat .
• E-collar training : Uses electric collars which deliver a shock for bad behavior. This can be stressful for dogs, and some pet owners may steer away from it. 
• Mirror training : As the name suggests, mirror training shows dogs what to do or not to do by way of a model. Another dog receives rewards or punishment, showing the dog in training how to proceed.

Gather service opinions by polling local pet owners, and visiting competitor websites. Don’t just look at what competitors offer, but what’s missing in the dog training industry that your brand can deliver.

2. Analyze the Competition

Dog training business competition is mainly local. As you analyze your competition to start a dog training business, look into tangible and digital resources, including:

• Training services
• Customer Outreach
• Social media 
• Training locations (inside, outside, in customer homes, etc.)
• Additional services or product sales (treats, shampoos, food sales, etc.)

The best way to find local shops is to perform a Google search for dog training in your city. You can also check out franchises, and national brands for ideas on successful dog training business plans. 

Here are some of the top U.S. companies in dog training:

Bark Busters

This in-home training franchise currently offers opportunities in 15 different states. The home office is in Danville, California, and the company has been serving dog owners since 1989. The initial franchise fee is $37,500, with an overall investment of $71,000 to $94,000. 

The Dog Wizard

Another popular franchise, The Dog Wizard has 40 locations across the U.S. They quote a total investment for a franchise as $73,350 to $101,500. Dog Wizard offers packages for mobile training, retail facility training, and add-on training for doggy daycare. The initial franchise fee is $38,000.

Hot Dog on a Leash

Big and small dogs benefit from Hot Dog on a Leash training. Hot Dog on a Leash specializes in agility training, scent training, water exercise, boot camp, surfing classes, and more. It’s also one of the cheaper franchises to set up with a franchise fee of only $1,000 and an overall investment of $14,000 to $20,000. 

3. Understand the Costs of Starting a Dog Training Business

There are starting and ongoing costs associated with beginning a dog training business. From the facility, you train in, to the legal side of things. Here’s what you need to know.

What Does It Cost to Start a Dog Training Business?

There’s more to dog training than dogs and trainers. A lot of money goes into the initial investment of a dog training business, including elements such as:

• Facility rental
• Dog poop cleaning
• Utility expenses
• License and permits
• Point of sale (POS) system
• Website and web design
• Training equipment (obstacle course, clickers, etc.)
• Employee training and income
• Commercial vehicle
• Pet waste removal

The costs to start a dog training business depend on whether you’re developing a new brand or opening a franchise. As you saw above, a franchise can run anywhere from $1,000 to $38,000 for franchise fees and $14,000 to $102,000 for total startup costs. 

Beginning your own brand changes these costs, and the outcome is dependent on things like:

• Training in-home or on-site
• Size of office space and training facility
• Number of employees
• Required equipment based on desired training services

You can expect a new dog training business brand to run between $10,000 and $45,000. The spectrum’s lower side is for business training in customer homes and public dog parks.

Business Equipment/Materials

A big part step in learning how to start a dog training business is the equipment. The training equipment you use depends entirely on the space you have to use them in. Dog training businesses with their own facility should invest in large equipment to stimulate play and encourage tricks.

Small training businesses operating out of homes or public parks may only invest in mobile equipment like training hoops, treats, and collars. 

Here are a few places to begin your search.

• Maximum K9 Service : Provides handler gear, reward toys, training collars, dog crates, field equipment, and more. 
• Pet Pro Supply Co : Supply a variety of large equipment, including agility training sets, dog training platforms, pet treadmills, treat pouches, and wobble boards.
• Chewy : A bulk training treat company with various flavors and ingredients.

As you get started, here are some of the materials and supplies to consider purchasing:

• Bulk Training Treats ($80 to $103 for 15lbs) : Training treats vary depending on the type of treat and ingredient. You’ll pay more for specialty treats for pups with dietary issues.
• Training Platform ($160):  A durable, washable platform offering dogs a place to practice commands. 
• Agility Tunnel ($72):  Play tunnel with sandbags for sturdiness. The dog travels through a tunnel, learning to follow commands and trust the trainer. 
• Clickers ($56 for a pack of 50):  Clickers tell dogs when they’ve performed good behavior and to anticipate a reward.
• Treat Pouch ($5 to $20):  Training dogs requires plenty of treats in the beginning. A pouch keeps treats easily obtainable during activities.

Save money by looking for used equipment on Craigslist, eBay, and Kijiji. 

Cost of Renting or Leasing a Location

Leasing space for a dog training school is tough. Many commercial spaces prohibit pets to keep spaces clean and odorless. Some dog trainers choose to buy or build.

You’ll pay by square foot if you find a property owner open to a dog training business. For example, a commercial property at $24/sq ft per year on a building with 1000 square feet costs $24,000 per year. Divide this by 12 for monthly payments of $2,000.

You might find success renting:

• Leasing space from a local veterinary clinic
• Partnering with a doggy daycare/boarding business
• Finding training or grooming companies going out of business

Business Formation

All businesses, big and small, need to form a legal business by registering a name and obtaining proper licensure. Start with the Small Business Administration . Dog training businesses pay roughly $300 to $800 for name registration and permits.

Business Insurance

Dog training businesses require business insurance to protect yourself, your employees, and your brand. Some insurance products you might need include:

• General liability insurance
• Commercial property insurance
• Commercial vehicle insurance

Utility costs vary by the size of your training facility. Some of the utilities you’ll pay for include:

• Electricity

You may also choose to hook up a landline business phone and internet at your facility. This is especially true of any dog training business with on-site office space.

Utilities range in price from city to city, but you can expect to pay roughly $2.90 per square foot for electricity a year. Most dog training businesses will spend about 4% of total operational costs on these utility payments. 

What Are the Ongoing Costs of a Dog Training Business?

After startup costs, damage deposits on your lease, and equipment, your dog training business will have ongoing fees to pay. These are the costs of everyday supplies and services, such as:

Administrative materials (printer paper, ink, etc.)

• Business cards
• Monthly rent
• Marketing costs
• Staff wages
• Training costs
• Commercial vehicle fuel
• Bank and credit card fees

If you sell special training products like e-collars and no-pull leashes, you’ll likely pay to replenish inventory as well.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

In the U.S., you must form a legal business entity to offer services for income. There are four main entities to consider. These are limited liability corporations (LLCs), sole proprietorships, partnerships, or corporations. Each has its pros and cons. Here are some details to help you decide.

Limited Liability Corporation (LLC)

An LLC is the most beneficial business entity choice for small businesses like a local dog trainers. It separates personal and business assets, protecting you from potential lawsuits or liability issues. 

Sole Proprietorship  

A sole proprietorship is a business entity owned by a single person (or married couple). You make all the business decisions for your business, with no input from a board or shareholders. 

Unlike an LLC, a sole proprietorship doesn’t protect your assets. Instead, everything is tied up with your business. If you get sued because a dog bites an employee, your legal fees could come out of your personal savings. 

Partnership

Like a sole proprietorship, a partnership ties personal and business property together. This is a good business model for family members looking to share business ownership and decision-making rights. Lenders may look to your personal assets for recompense if the company goes bankrupt. 

Corporation

A corporation is a highly advanced and somewhat complicated business entity. It offers maximum protection and separates personal and professional assets. It’s also extremely costly and requires plenty of paperwork to get off the ground. 

This is a good choice for large companies, but not for small businesses. 

5. Register Your Business for Taxes

Every business needs an Employee ID Number (EIN) to legally operate. This is also called the federal tax ID because you need one to file business taxes. 

As a dog training business, you can obtain your EIN through the  U.S. Small Business Administration . The process is fairly straightforward and opens doors to a variety of business-specific practices, such as:

• Opening a business bank account
• Applying for a business credit card
• Paying employees
• Filing annual business taxes
• Making changes to payment and benefits for non-US resident employees

Every state has individual tax requirements set by the  U.S. government . Check with your state to make sure your pricing plan meets state tax regulations.

6. Setup Accounting for Success

Any business with an income needs some type of accounting. Small businesses like dog trainers can do a lot on their own with business software. Some things still require a professional. Here are some accounting options to consider as you start your business.

Accounting Software

Quickbooks is one of the top accounting software on the market. It offers a variety of tools and information specifically designed for small business owners. From automating customer invoices to tracking spending, there are different packages based on your needs.

Accounting software handles a lot of the small everyday accounting tasks for your business. It minimizes the costs of a full-time accountant.

Find an Accountant

While Quickbooks does a lot, you’ll still want an experienced business accountant at tax time. Accountants are trained in all the red tape and legalese of tax season. For businesses looking for max deductions, working with a professional is worth the cost. A CPA charges between $150 and $400 an hour. 

Get a Business Bank Account

The IRS provides a useful Small Business Tax Workshop. One of the steps they cover is setting up a business bank account to separate spending. Keeping your personal and professional finances apart is best from a legal standpoint. It also makes filing taxes easier.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

A business credit card is another option small business owners may want to invest in. Business accounts offer several incentives compared to private credit cards, including:

• Low interest
• Cash back rewards
• Travel rewards

You can also set up custom spending caps and track work-related charges.

7. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits

There are different license and permit requirements across the U.S. for small businesses. A dog training business doesn’t fall under any federal agencies, but you can double-check with the U.S. Small Business Administration for updates. 

For state licenses, enter your state and zip code in the SBA ’s Find Local Assistance tool. This will give you details on your state’s individual license and permit codes.

There’s no official certification for dog trainers. However, if you want to stand out you can apply to the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers to become a certified dog trainer . The CCPDT exam has a pre-requisite of 300 training hours (in the past 3 years), a recommendation from a veterinarian, and signed documents provided by CCPDT. 

8. Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is essential for a dog training business. Working with pets is a liability in itself. There’s always something that could go wrong, and your insurance protects you against legal and financial hardship. 

The most common insurance product for a dog training business is general liability insurance. This protects you from financial claims due to injury, or property damage caused by your services. 

For a small business, general liability insurance costs somewhere between $300 to $1,500 for $1 million in coverage.

If you’re leasing a training facility, you’ll also want to invest in commercial property insurance. This product protects against damages to your business and assets caused by theft, vandalism, and some natural disasters. On average you can expect to pay $1,000 to $3,000 per year for $1 million in coverage.

9. Create an Office Space

Every dog training business needs an office for administrative work. You can’t train and pay invoices in the same space (you could, but it might get messy). Offices come in all shapes and sizes. You need to choose the space that works best for your small business. 

Home Office

Creating a home office is easy and affordable. It also offers some great tax incentives, including rebates on the internet, travel, utilities, and even some renovations. You can learn more about specific home office incentives through the IRS .

The IRS caps home office deductions at $1,500 each year. You can calculate this based on square footage or individual expenses.

CoWorking Office

Coworking offices give the feel of a corporate office without the high cost. Use your space when you need it, with no long-term commitment, down payment, or lease.

WeWork is an excellent example of a coworking office. They provide a variety of plans based on your preferred level of privacy and your budget. Membership options are flexible with short-term contracts. 

Commercial Building Office

A commercial office is an attractive administrative option, but pricey. For small businesses, this isn’t always a feasible choice. Cost varies by building and lease, but the price is $24 per square foot on average. 

10. Source Your Equipment

Finding the right tools for your dog training business sets you apart from local competitors. There are so many toys, treats, and equipment to choose from. Here are some options for finding the best supplies.

Buying new equipment offers the advantage of clean training tools with no scents of other dogs or people. For technical equipment like e-collars, you also receive warranties for mechanical issues.

Maximum K9 Service and Pet Pro Supply Co are good spots to shop for new commercial dog training equipment. 

Some products in dog training are fine to buy used. Large obstacle courses and agility training equipment, for example, are much cheaper when used. 

Craigslist and Facebook marketplace are two spots to start your search for used gear. You can also check with local vets and doggy daycares to see if they have any connections selling training equipment.

11. Establish Your Brand

Your brand is critical to the success of your business. It encompasses a variety of things, including the reputation and identity of your dog training company. Building your brand helps you connect with customers, and differentiates you from other dog trainers in town. 

There are plenty of ways to begin developing your brand. Creating an entity separate from your personal life, and engaging with customers is the best way to get started. Here are some tips for getting your brand off the ground.

Get a Business Phone Number

Keeping your business and personal life separate is important for many reasons. Business lines are recommended to stay organized, appear professional, and ensure you don’t miss any business calls. 

Try Google Voice to add a business line for as low as $10 per month. There are also traditional business lines available through big brands like T-Mobile and AT&T .

Create a Logo & Brand Assets

What’s a business without a logo? Still a business, but harder to differentiate from other dog training companies in town. A logo tells your customers who you are. It helps them identify you at events, and even find your business signage on a busy street. 

An affordable logo resource for small businesses is Looka . Using artificial intelligence, Looka supplies logo design options based on your preferences for other logo designs. Change the size, color, font, and more based on your tastes.

Create Business Cards and Signage

Signs make your training facility look like a business inside and out. Professional signage is important to your business’ image. It should include your brand logo and business name as a baseline.

Business cards are another important facet of branding your business. These are like tangible paper Facebook shares. Customers can give them to friends and coworkers, you can hand them out at local events, and they’re great marketing resources at networking activities. 

Vistaprint is a leader in business card design and distribution. Get 100 matte business cards for your dog training business for just $18. Vistaprint offers a variety of design and logo options for your cards.

Purchase a Domain Name

Domain names give your online identity credibility. A real .com address has a ring of authority to it. You can get a domain name through a variety of online providers, including Namecheap.com . 

Choose a package for your domain based on usage, name availability, and other preferences. Namecheap offers addresses at just $5.98 per year and up.

Build a Website

Your website tells local dog owners who you are and why you’re qualified to train their pets. This is the first place many customers will look to learn about your services, prices, and qualifications. 

There are plenty of ways to build a credible and affordable website. Do it yourself with website builders like Wix , or use a crowdsourcing site like Fiverr to find an affordable freelancer. 

12. Join Associations and Groups

Joining dog training and dog business associations is a big support for a new business owner. You can talk to others in your industry, and learn to navigate tricky situations with help from professionals. 

There are plenty of places to look for these groups, starting with the International Association of Canine Professionals . Here are some other places to look.

Local Associations

Look for local associations and groups in your area supporting dog training, doggy daycares, and other dog businesses. Join the Association of Professional Dog Trainers to look for other trainers in your area. 

Local Meetups

Local networking events and trade shows are good places to market yourself and access new partnerships. The American Kennel Club has a search feature for finding local dog training events. 

Meetup is another great digital resource to find local events and meetings in and around your area. You can create a group, or find an existing dog training group in your city or state. 

Facebook Groups

Social media support groups are great for connecting with local businesses and global industry leaders. Learn modern and humane dog training techniques, share tricks of the trade with other trainers, and gain insight into new training tools.

Some Facebook dog training groups to get you started are:

• Dog Trainer Sales and Marketing Group
• Dog Training Advice and Support
• Dog Business Owners Advice Support Group

There are plenty of other dog and pet training business groups to explore. 

13. Focus on Marketing

Marketing is crucial for small local businesses, especially niche industries like dog training. People love their pets. Your marketing efforts need to prove to your community they can trust you with their furry friends. Some ways to get your brand out there include:

Your loved ones are a great untapped marketing resource. They already support you personally, why not professionally? Some ways to get your friends and coworkers involved is to ask them to:

• Share your business page on social media
• Spread the word about upcoming doggy social events 
• Hand out business cards and coupons for training classes
• Try your business and leave a genuine review

Word-of-mouth marketing is super relevant in today’s consumer-driven business landscape. The more people talking about your dog training business, the better. 

Digital Marketing Ideas

It’s a digital marketplace, even for businesses operating in the real world. Modern consumers are looking up local brands on social media and Google reviews long before visiting in person. Here are some ways to make your brand relevant online:

• Write a blog
• Engage with customers on social media
• Create dog training videos on YouTube or TikTok
• Send a weekly newsletter on upcoming events and discounts
• Use Facebook and Google ads to target local pet owners online

Digital marketing has free and paid advertising options. The more you share and engage, the more brand knowledge you build online. 

Traditional Marketing Ideas

Traditional marketing isn’t over. There’s a lot to be said about tangible advertising. Holding something in your hand like a business card or a brochure makes an impression. You also don’t have to worry about it getting stuck in “the filter”. 

Your dog training business might benefit from traditional marketing mediums like:

• Newspaper ads
• Local billboards
• Park bench and bus ads
• Course catalogs
• Bulletin board flyers
• Coupons for treats and classes

14.  Focus on the Customer

Dog training business owners prosper by really getting to know their customers. Both human and four-legged customers are important to the longevity of your brand. 

Your initial market research tells you all about your customer demographic. It can also help you discover things dog owners want to see from the businesses they frequent. Connecting and engaging with local consumers is a great way to humanize your own dog training business and build brand loyalty.

Try giving back to customers with:

• Loyalty programs
• Doggy socializing events
• Referral rewards
• Exclusive offers via email and direct mailouts
• Customized training classes tailored to unique breeds and behaviors

We hope this guide has offered some useful advice on how to start a dog training business. Good luck and keep those tails wagging!

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How to Start a Dog Training Business

Many dog owners either don’t know how to effectively train their dogs or don’t have time to. A dog training business offers dog owners a convenient, safe and effective place to have their canines trained. A business may be located in a home or in a commercial space, or a trainer may go to clients’ homes.

You may also be interested in additional home business ideas .

Ready to turn your business idea into a reality? We recommend forming an LLC as it is the most affordable way to protect your personal assets. You can do this yourself or with our trusted partner for a small fee. Northwest ($29 + State Fees) DIY: How to Start an LLC

Start a dog training business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Dog Training Business
• Form your Dog Training Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Dog Training Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Dog Training Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Dog Training Business
• Get Dog Training Business Insurance
• Define your Dog Training Business Brand
• Create your Dog Training Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your dog training business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Dog Training Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Find a Domain Now

Powered by godaddy.com, what are the costs involved in opening a dog training business.

The startup costs associated with opening a dog training business are relatively minimal. Business owners need to have a phone and computer so they can effectively communicate with clients and market online.

Aside from this, they either need a place to train dogs or transportation to clients’ homes. Those who don’t want to sign a long-term lease may be able to rent space a few days a week in a pet store, use a local park or train dogs in a fenced-in yard.

What are the ongoing expenses for a dog training business?

A dog training business has two primary ongoing expenses. Unless training dogs in a home, the business must continue to lease or rent space for training dogs. How much this cost amounts to depends on where the business is located, how much space it uses and how often the business uses the space. The business must also pay to renew any certifications that expire. Renewing certifications usually doesn’t cost as much as initially becoming certified.

Who is the target market?

An ideal client is someone who has at least one dog, has discretionary income and is busy. People who have little discretionary income are less likely to pay someone to train their dog. People who have many obligations and discretionary income are less likely to have time to train their dog themselves and have income to pay a training business.

How does a dog training business make money?

Dog training businesses are paid for training dogs. Businesses may offer multi-week classes people can sign their dogs up for, one-on-one lessons and remedial behavior correction sessions. Additionally, some dog training businesses also offer dog walking, dog sitting and dog grooming, which provide additional income sources.

The cost of dog training varies widely, depending on a trainer’s expertise, the number of dogs in a class and the location of a business. Group classes typically cost $50 to $125 and run between four and eight weeks. Private lessons typically range from $30 to $100 per hour, with most dogs requiring at least several hours of training. The higher ends of these ranges are usually earned by trainers who have at least one certification.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Dog training businesses can increase profits by opening more classes, encouraging people to sign up for individual sessions, getting trainers more certifications or adding other services. Starting more classes and signing clients up for one-on-one sessions increases how many hours dogs are being trained, and thus increases revenue. Getting more certifications gives trainers more expertise, allowing a business to charge more for the amount of time they spend training dogs. Adding other services, such as dog walking, dog sitting or dog grooming lets a business continue to serve clients after their dogs have been trained.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when starting your dog training business is the importance of establishing a solid business foundation. While sole proprietorships and partnerships are the most common entity types for small businesses, they're a far less stable and advantageous option than LLCs.

This is because unincorporated business structures (i.e., sole proprietorships and partnerships) expose you as an owner to personal liability for your business's debts and legal actions, while LLCs protect you by keeping your personal assets separate from your business's liabilities.

In practice, this means that if your dog training business were to face a lawsuit or incur any debts, your savings, home, and other personal assets could not be used to cover these costs. On top of this, forming your business as an LLC also helps it to appear more legitimate and trustworthy.

More than 84% of our readers opt to collaborate with a professional LLC formation service to kickstart their venture. We've negotiated a tailored discount for our readers, bringing the total down to just $29.

Form Your LLC Now

Note: If you're interested in more information before getting started, we recommend having a look at our state-specific How to Start an LLC guide (DIY) or our in-depth Best LLC Services review (for those opting for a professional service).

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate an dog training business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Service Agreement

Dog training businesses should consider requiring clients to sign a service agreement before starting a new project. This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership. Here is an example service agreement.

Recommended: Rocket Lawyer makes it easy to create a professional service agreement for your dog training business when you sign up for their premium membership. For $39.95 per month, members receive access to hundreds of legal agreements and on call attorneys to get complimentary legal advice.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Dog Training Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Dog Training Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a dog training business

The most effective way to promote a dog training business is usually via referrals and word of mouth. Business owners can build relationships with veterinarians, dog walkers, or pet sitters who can provide referrals. Owners may even want to offer these people compensation for referring clients. Owners can also incentivize clients to tell other dog owners they know about the business by offering free lessons to anyone who refers a family member or friend.

How to keep customers coming back

A dog training business can set itself apart from similar businesses by offering convenient lesson times and locations, and by having more highly-trained trainers. Getting certifications from dog-training agencies demonstrates expertise.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

People who love dogs and other people may be well-suited for owning a dog training business, as the work involves interacting with both dogs and their owners. Patience is another valuable attribute, because training dogs often requires repeating the same drill multiple times. Dog training businesses usually operate during the day, which can make it difficult to run a business while keeping a traditional day job.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a dog training business?

Dog training business owners usually work with dogs on a daily basis, which often requires moving about a lot (sitting, standing, walking, running, throwing, etc.). Business owners also spend time interacting with dogs’ owners, teaching them how to interact with their dogs and providing training updates. Marketing, which is essential to growing a dog training business, can also take up a lot of time.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful dog training business?

Dog training business owners need to be familiar with the various techniques used to nonviolently train dogs. Dogs of different ages, breeds and personalities may respond differently to training, so owners should have several techniques they can use with any given dog.

The most sought-after trainers have certifications that show their credentials. Many associations provide certification programs that teach different dog training techniques. These programs may be offered through local or regional schools, or online.

What is the growth potential for a dog training business?

Dogs usually only need to be trained once, so the need for a dog training business in any geographic area is dependent upon the amount of untrained dogs in that area. Many dog training businesses start out with just one, or at most a few, trainers who serve a local area. Some businesses remain small, while others open up satellite locations to reach more potential clients. Few dog training businesses become larger than a local chain with programs situated around a city.

Not sure if a dog training business is right for you? Try our free Business Idea Generator and find your perfect idea.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

How and when to build a team

A dog training business can be run by one person, but it can also grow to include a team of trainers. Having multiple trainers can let a business offer lessons in several locations at the most popular lesson times, such as Saturday morning and Sunday afternoon. Building a team requires a considerable investment of time, as owners must ensure employees are suited for this business.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• Franchise opportunity for Bark Busters Home Dog Training
• Website for The Association of Professional Dog Trainers

Real World Examples

• Peyton Farms Dog Breeding and Training
• Website for Petco, one of America’s largest pet stores, offering dog training classes
• Smaller dog obedience training facility in Mississippi
• Cesar Millan’s Dog Training Schools

Further Reading

• Book detailing the process of training dogs by widely revered dog trainer Cesar Millan
• Collection of videos on dog training
• List of dog training schools
• Steps to become qualified as a dog trainer

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

How to Create a Successful Dog Training Business Plan

🐶 Need software to help you run your pet business? Check out DoggieDashboard. It's 100% free for the first 10 pets you save in your database. 😺

Last Updated: February 9, 2023 • Visit Blog Homepage

In order to create a comprehensive plan that sets you up for success, it's important to consider all aspects of your business, including your target market, marketing strategies, financial projections, and more. Running a dog training business is more than just training dogs. It's also about finding those dogs that you'll train, billing their pet parents for the lessons you give their pets, etc.

In this blog post, we will cover the key components of a successful business plan for a dog training business, and offer tips and tricks for making the most of your resources and maximizing your chances of success. Enough with the banter, let's get to work!

1. Selecting Your Target Market

2. short-term and long-term financial projections, 3. developing a marketing strategy, 4. utilizing online business management software to track growth.

Creating a successful business plan for your dog training business requires careful consideration of all aspects of your business, including your target market, financial projections, marketing strategy, and management and tracking tools. By following these steps and being realistic about your goals and resources, you can set yourself up for success and achieve your goals in the pet industry. Investing the right amount of time in writing your business plan will help set you up for success and let you do what you do best: training dogs and helping pet owners!

1,067 Page Views since February 24, 2023

🐶 Looking for software to help you run your pet business? Check out DoggieDashboard. It's 100% free for the first 10 pets you save in your database. 😺

Need tips for running your pet business? Check out the popular posts below or click here to visit the blog homepage.

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How to Start a Dog Training Business

Being an entrepreneur isn't easy. It takes dedication, drive and passion for the industry you're going into as well as for the business itself. Many pet parents dream and ponder how to start a dog training business for many reasons, but the most common is a simple love for dogs and a desire to improve the relationship between pets and their owners.

Working with pets is a rewarding experience, and even more so when you can be your own boss: planning, creating, imagining and implementing everything from A to Z. If this sounds like you, and you believe you're a hard working enough person with an interest in dog training , the first step to figuring out exactly  how to start a dog training business is to actually commit to this venture .

Keep in mind though that regardless of the sense of adventure, excitement and optimism that will come once you take your first steps into building your own dog training business, it will not always be an easy road to travel. In fact, pet parents who are dead set on launching a dog training business should prepare for a long road of many hours and hard work.

“ 30% of new businesses in the usa fail within the first two years after launch…”

…according to the US Small Business Administration ; and within the first five years that number can jump up to a 50% failure rate . Although this is true across all industries, not just pet businesses , the failure rate in running a dog training business specifically can be even higher for many different reasons.

Always begin with learning as much as you can and research of the industry you're about to enter.

Doing your homework before you begin – along with plenty of investigation of what's out there – will definitely and significantly  improve the odds of your dog business becoming successful. You'll also want to make sure that you have a good support system  set up around you, because starting a business, no matter what kind, is a very stressful undertaking overall.

What do I mean by “support system”? It's the people and the environment that surrounds you: avoid all the negativity and consume all positive thoughts and encouragement from those who push you into learning how to start a dog training business. Additionally, gather around all types of resources for information and reference. Grab dog business books, subscribe to our newsletter and follow our Dog Business Column .

“I'm ready. I can do this. I'm dedicated and I want to learn how to start a dog training business!”

First thing's first…

Dog training industry is competitive. But what's even more important to know is that it's also unregulated, meaning that  anyone can be a dog trainer , even without any dog training certifications. Some dog owners may hire trainers who are not qualified in the least to train a canine. Thus it's important to get unbiased, objective opinions of your dog training knowledge and handling skills from third-party sources (preferably NOT your family and friends).

If you haven't already done anything like that, make sure to take group classes or private lessons with your own dog in learning how to train dogs professionally . We even have a great column on how to get a dog trainer's certification , if you wish to look into that.

To make sure that your dog training business stands out from the crowd, you'll want to have as many canine training skills on your resumé as possible. Take additional classes and seminars that offer more certificates of completion, new skills, ideas, and if possible, get a list of references of people that have seen your ability to train dogs first-hand.

Having a huge crush on dogs does not qualify you to become a dog trainer, and it especially doesn't mean that you're a really good dog trainer. You need to show potential clients that you have the knowledge and skill set that is required to train their dogs. The more education you have, the higher-quality training you will be able to provide.

Don't forget that you'll be working with the public.

With the above being said, love for dogs is crucial in this business (duh!) but so is the ability to communicate with those on the other end of the leash. You aren't just training canines; you are also teaching their owners . Customer service skills are vital when teaching Fido's other-half how to use commands and other tactics appropriately. Sometimes, it can be even harder than teaching a dog…

RELATED: How to teach a dog to walk on a leash

Remember that not everyone will have the same amount of knowledge that you do, so you can't expect dog owners to know anything about training animals. Cut them some slack and develop a good sense of patience. Making dog owners feel competent and understanding their needs and concerns is what will set you apart from other trainers in the business. Customer service is a huge part of a thriving business, and those who want to learn how to start a dog training business should look for some good examples, like Amazon or Johnson & Johnson whose love for customers is absolutely top-notch .

If you are articulate and know what you're doing , and you're easy to understand, then chances are good that you have what it takes to launch a successful career as a dog trainer . If you feel like your people skills could use some work, consider investing in a training program. It may sound silly now, but a few night classes in customer service and how to effectively work with clients may be all it takes to make or break your business.

“Where are all the dogs at?”

Picking a good location for your dog training business

Although it is not uncommon to see dog training companies operate in remote and sparsely populated parts of the country, it is wise for a first-time business owner to find an area where the most people — and dogs — are. If you are in a market where you could only train an average of 30 dogs a year, then it would be more like a hobby and less like a viable business.

This part is called market research, and it's responsible for about half of your success. It's absolutely vital that you do your market research.

Another duh : in order to support and scale your dog training business, you need to be sure that you are opening in the area where there is a high percentage of dog owners. The denser the dog population, the better! According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 36.5% of U.S. households own a dog , and you want to be near as many of those families as possible.

If you're open to relocation across the country, then focus on settling your business in a state, city and neighborhood where a large number of families own dogs. You can get this information from local animal control officials, town offices, or any other institution that provides information on the number of registered dogs in the area. Also, check the information in surrounding towns, because some people may be likely to travel in order to receive the best service possible (yours!)

After you have thoroughly researched your market and figured out where the demand is, you can start the next step — scouting for a location.

“Can I just rent any vacant building for my dog business?”

Yes, of course you can. And you can also save some money by starting in your own house, but there are a few aspects of this plan that need to be considered.

Before choosing the actual physical space where your dog training business will be located, you need to keep this important part in mind: seriously consider (and calculate) how much space in square feet you'll require . This is where many aspiring trainers fail by skimping on space, because usually, successful dog training businesses need plenty of room to move and run.

Alternatively, some canine trainers who are learning how to start a dog training business will often begin their entrepreneurial venture in their homes. There's nothing wrong with that if your house is big and has plenty of room where you can accomplish all necessary tasks.

RELATED: Puppy training 101 – Basic walkthrough

So whether you'd like to run your business out of your home or you're planning on renting a space, make sure it has adequate room  for all the supplies and equipment you will need, as well as plenty of space for you and the dogs to move freely while working together.

You also need to think about how easy it is for customers to access your building. If you are planning on running your dog training business out of your home and it's located on a muddy dirt road that is 5 miles from the nearest main road, that's not very easily accessible for your future clientele. You want your business to be easy to find and easy to get to.

This is a type of business that highly relies on easy access to location on a daily basis.

Other things to consider when looking for the proper venue when you're just beginning to learn how to start a dog training business are:

• Is there adequate parking?
• Does the location promote the desired image of your business?
• Is there room for future growth?
• Is there competition located near this location?

* Tip : Be sure to check zoning requirements for the city beforehand to make sure you can run a business in that location.

Who is your competition?

Let's say you have succeeded in locating an area with a large population of dog owners. Chances are that if there are dogs around, there are also well-established pet businesses in the area, possibly even schools and trainers . It is important for your business to stand out by offering something unique , that perhaps the other trainers don't offer.

To understand your competition a little better, check and see how far in advance other dog trainers in your target market are booked.

This type of information is necessary to determine whether there is a shortage or over saturation of dog training services in your target area. There will be places where every dog trainer in town can see you today, which probably means there is an excess supply of canine trainers in that area.

RELATED: Dog training basics – 11 essential tips

If the latter is the case, don't give up yet — first, examine your ability to stand out from the competition. Having something special to offer, such as really  high-quality training at a lower price with amazing customer service and gifts for dogs (etc.) might be all you need to have your dog training business succeed and grow.

Another thing to consider is the type of training that the other programs are offering. If they use a punishment-based training method, a positive reinforcement method may be exactly what that particular area and its dog owners are looking for. The bottom line is to make sure that the market you are looking to come into isn't over-saturated, or that there's something unique or improved you can offer that hasn't been offered yet .

However, if you've done your research and it seems that there is an abundance of highly-qualified trainers in the area that specialize in the same type of training that you will be offering, it may be time to reconsider your location. Even if you have to commute a few towns over, it will be worth it if there is a chance you will get more business. This type of commitment is what it takes to run a successful dog business.

Now it's time for a little paperwork…

Once you've chosen the perfect location, you're well on your way to understanding how to start a dog training business. Now comes the tedious part – paperwork. A big part of learning how to start a dog training business is hidden away in bureaucracy, something many aspiring petpreneurs forget to consider.

The first thing you'll need to do is choose a name for your business. You want it to be something that is catchy and easy for costumers to remember. Before you settle on a name, think about how you'll market your business and make sure that the name is professional looking and great for marketing, too.

Once you've selected the perfect name, it's time to legalize your business. If you're unsure of how to do this, go to your state's business website and do some research. Most states require all businesses to be registered with the state and many have certain licensing regulations as well. For example, if I were to start a business in California, I'd visit this site .

RELATED: How to housebreak a puppy effectively

If you can't find all the information that you need online, make a phone call to the state business department and get your questions answered. You don't want to get close to opening your dog training business and realize that you don't have a required license, or worse – get shut down after opening because you didn't file the required paperwork.

You're also going to need insurance . Finding business insurance can be tricky, so shop around well and long. You want to make sure that you have plenty of coverage because you never know what can happen. What if one of the dogs you are training gets hurt and the owners want to blame on you? Same goes for your location – your building/office/area or whatnot needs to be covered in the event there is a fire, flood, etc.

Be smart about your business insurance. At first, focus on the most essential things you'll need and try to minimize your expenses as much as you can. Let's say you live in a place like the desert of Arizona, then flood insurance may not be a high priority for you. Likewise, if you live in Maine you probably won't need tornado coverage.

Talk with multiple different insurance agents and especially read a lot online about all offers you can get before you choose which one to work with. Ensure that your pet business insurance company is giving you the coverage you need without any hidden policies that your business won't require. It's easy to get upsold ten times over your budget.

RELATED: Toilet training puppies – 10 tips for success

Now that all your paperwork is completed, you need to keep it organized and in a safe place. You're going to need to refer to this information many times, so you don't want to lose it or have to hunt for it when the time comes. It's never a bad idea to scan everything into your computer so you have a back up copy if you happen to misplace anything.

Dog supplies and products, training equipment and more…

Hopefully you've been planning on purchasing A LOT of professional dog supplies, because you're going to need them. Talk to other dog trainers, research information online, and come up with a list of all the materials that you will need to run a successful dog training business .

Luckily, Top Dog Tips specializes in profiling dog supplies companies, start-ups and providing reviews on all types of dog products. Read everything on this site to educate yourself on what you need, what you don't need and how to work those things.

Obviously you'll need a lot of good quality supplies for training and working with your clientele dogs. Some very first things to consider are:

• Agility training equipment
• Calming aids
• Books and videos
• General dog training equipment

You'll wear many different hats as a business owner, so don't forget about the other dog products that you'll be needing as well. Think about the office supplies you'll need, too. I'm not just talking about pens, paper, and sticky notes. You'll need that stuff as well but take into account (as an expense) other, much larger and more expensive things.

Obviously, a computer will be necessary to send emails, keep up with your website and social media pages, create invoices, keep records, and much more. You may also need a separate phone line and maybe an answering machine. What about a desk, office chair, and chairs for your clients? The more detailed you make your list now, the more prepared you will be.

Once you have the list down, start restructuring in terms of priority. Every successful business owner should be good at prioritizing stuff. Find ways to spend as least funds as possible in the beginning without sacrificing quality of your services.

Try to spend less and be prepared to get your hands dirty

Chances are you’re not going to have lots of money to hire a cleaning service, general contractor, lawyer, accountant, marketing firm, or web designer at first. In order to keep your start-up costs low, it is advisable to do some of these things yourself. If you don't know how, take a class or find someone who can help you pro-bono.

Do your own painting and household repairs and learn accounting, basic bookkeeping, the basics of online marketing, social media and website design, or at least website maintenance. Doing these simple tasks on your own can help your business get off to a better financial start because your start-up costs will be considerably cheaper. And, if the business fails, you will significantly reduce the impact on your own financial health.

RELATED: How to live on a budget with dogs

Also, learning everything first-hand will make you a much better boss later down the road once you start outsourcing tasks and hiring professionals to handle specific parts of your dog training business.

Now that you understand how to start a dog training business, the rest is up to you.

Even with a well-prepared plan, starting a dog training business – or ANY business for that matter – isn't easy. There’s a lot involved both physically and emotionally, and it can take some time for you to build up a clientele. Try looking online for free resources and visit your local government to look into the rules regarding licensing and registration.

Research the web for financial grants and free business-planning services. There are great benefits to be had from incubator and mentorship programs, along with other government-run services. You'll find resources on creating a dog training business plan and securing financing. Here are just a few of the great resources out there:

• BPlans has tons of great stuff to get your business up and running quickly.
• Check out  MyOwnBusiness for some great free business planning information.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is a great place for info.
• Entrepreneur.com  has lots of free advice, tips and inspiration.

Remember that everything takes time, and building up a strong business is no exception. Don't expect things to take off right out of the gate. Give yourself time to build relationships with clients and get people in the community talking about your business. Before you know it, you'll have a successful dog training business.

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Dog Training Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

Dog Training Business Plan Template

If you want to start a successful dog training business or expand your current dog training services, you need a business plan.

Fortunately, you’re in the right place. Our team has helped develop over 100,000 business plans over the past 20 years, including thousands of dog training business plans.

The following dog training business plan template and example gives you the key elements you must include in your plan. In our experience speaking with lenders and investors, the template is organized in the precise format they want.

You can download our Ultimate Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.  

Dog Training Business Plan Example

I. executive summary, business overview.

[Company Name] is a new dog training business located in [Location]. We provide several dog training services to help dogs of every age and breed reach their full potential. Our company provides multiple training services to do this, including puppy training, trick and basic command training, and behavioral training. We offer group classes, private sessions, and remote training options for all of our programs.

[Company Name] is founded by [Founder’s Name], who is an avid dog lover and experienced dog trainer. She has raised dogs her entire life and has worked at several dog shelters, vet clinics, and dog training businesses. Her expertise, experience, and knowledge makes her the company’s most valuable asset.

Products Served

[Company Name] will provide training service to dogs of all breeds and ages. There are a variety of concerns that come with raising a dog, meaning there are multiple reasons a dog may need training. To reach the widest demographic possible we offer three training services: puppy training, trick/command training, and behavioral training.

Customer Focus

[Company Name] will primarily serve the residents within a ten mile radius of our location. The demographics of these customers are as follows:

• 53,128 residents
• Average income of $72,500
• 43.1% married
• 55.2% in Mgt./Professional occupations
• Median age: 35 years
• 42% pet ownership

Management Team

[Company Name] is led by [Company Name] who has worked with dogs for her entire career. She has worked in several settings with dogs, including vet clinics, kennels, shelters, and other dog training facilities. [Founder’s Name] has extensive experience training dogs and a thorough knowledge of the most effective training techniques in the industry. Her expertise will be the company’s most valuable asset.

Success Factors

[Company Name] is uniquely qualified to succeed due to the following reasons:

• Our location is in a high-volume area with easy access from multiple residential and commercial district areas.
• The management team has a track record of success in dog training services.
• Dog training is a proven business and has succeeded in different communities throughout the United States.

Financial Highlights

[Company Name] is currently seeking $400,000 to launch. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Location design/build: $200,000
• Equipment and supplies: $50,000
• Working capital: $150,000 to pay for marketing, salaries, and lease costs until [Company Name] reaches break-even

II. Company Overview

You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Who is [Company Name]?

Our services ensure that we help train dogs through every phase of their life. This starts with our puppy training which helps with puppy basics such as socialization, potty training, and crate training. Next, we offer trick and command training to adult dogs who need to learn certain commands or tricks. Finally, we offer behavioral training to address unusual behavioral and disobedience concerns in dogs of all ages.

[Company Name] is founded by [Founder’s Name] who has been working with dogs here entire life. Her career has consisted of working at vet clinics, animal shelters, and other dog training companies. Her considerable experience and knowledge of dog training techniques makes her the perfect candidate to lead our company.

[Company Name]’s History

After surveying the local customer base, and finding a potential location, [Founder’s Name] incorporated [Company Name] as an S-Corporation on [date of incorporation].

Currently, the business is being run out of [Founder’s Name] home office, but once the lease on [Company Name]’s location is finalized, all operations will be run from there.

Since incorporation, [Company Name] has achieved the following milestones:

• Found a commercial space and signed Letter of Intent to lease it
• Developed the company’s name, logo, social media accounts, and website located at [website]
• Determined equipment and fixture requirements
• Began recruiting key employees

[Company Name]’s Products/Services

We offer three types of dog training services.

Puppy training : This is a service offered to those who just adopted a new puppy. Training includes potty training, socialization with other pups, getting used to human touch, and learning to be calm.

Trick training : This is a more specialized service depending on the tricks and commands that our clients want their dogs to learn. These commands can be as simple as learning to sit or stay or be more fun such as rolling over or shaking hands.

Behavioral training : Not all dogs immediately behave well. This is especially true when dogs are adopted from shelters and have had negative prior living experiences These experiences can cause them to be extremely aggressive or overlay anxious. Behavioral training teaches dogs to respond more positively to humans and other pets. Though most of these services are private to address specific concerns, we also offer group classes that help dogs become positively socialized with other canines.

III. Industry Analysis

You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here. Basic training is essential to make sure that a new pet acclimates well into their new home. Though many owners successfully train their pets on their own, it can still be a difficult process that can be improved by the help of professionals. This is especially true for pet owners who don’t have the time to train their pets or owners who have pets with behavioral issues.

There are many different types of dog training services, with the most popular services being puppy training and obedience training. Puppy training ensures a new puppy masters the basics of living in a new home and includes potty training, socialization training, and crate training. Obedience training ensures that a young or adult dog remains obedient to their human. These services include leash training, basic commands, and learning to stay focused and calm in all situations.

According to Allied Market Research, the pet training services market was valued at $3.83 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6% from now until 2031. This shows that many pet owners still require the services of dog trainers to help their dogs reach their fullest potential. Therefore, this is a perfect time to start a dog training business.

IV. Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

[Company Name] will serve the community residents of [Location] and its surrounding areas. The community has a high pet ownership rate and favors owning dogs over other animals. The community will benefit from another dog training company.

Customer Segmentation

[Company Name] will primarily target dog owners in the area. This can include people who have just adopted a new puppy as well as people who have had dogs for several years.

V. Competitive Analysis

Direct & indirect competitors.

The following establishments are located within a ten mile radius of [Company Name], thus providing either direct or indirect competition for customers:

Puppy Preschool Puppy Preschool is a dog training business that focuses on training newly adopted puppies. They offer all the services required for a puppy to get acclimated to their new home. These services include potty training, socialization with humans and other dogs, getting acclimated to human touch, learning basic commands (such as sit and stay), and crate training.

Happy Dog Training Services Happy Dog Training Services helps dog owners whose dogs are disobedient, aggressive, extremely anxious, or have other behavioral issues. The trainers utilize a multitude of services and methods to help dogs with these concerns. They not only help address the root of the behavioral issues but also help the humans learn how to better connect and work with their pets. These services are typically private, but classes are offered for dogs who may improve from socializing with other canines.

Canine Classroom Canine Classroom is a dog training school that focuses on teaching basic tricks and commands and addresses common obedience issues. Some of these services include leash training, crate training, basic commands (like sit and stay), and more. These services can either be private, remote, or in a class with other dogs for socialization.

Competitive Advantage

[Company Name] has several advantages over its competitors. The following are some of its major advantages:

• Expert Trainers : [Company Name] only hires the best dog trainers who have excellent skills working with humans and dogs.
• Great service at an affordable price : The services offered by [Company Name] are similar in quality to its most premium positioned competitors but offers more affordable prices.
• Management : Our management team has years of dog training experience that allows us to market to and serve customers in a much more sophisticated manner than our competitors.

VI. Marketing Plan

The [company name] brand.

The [Company Name] brand will focus on the company’s unique value proposition:

• Convenient location
• Expert dog trainers
• Moderate price point
• Fun, energetic, and customer-focused environment

Promotions Strategy

[Company Name] expects its target market to be individuals working and/or living within a ten mile radius of its location.The following are [Company Name]’s promotions strategy to reach these individuals:

Website/SEO [Company Name] will develop a professional website that displays images and explanations of our training classes. It will also invest in SEO so that the company’s website will appear at the top of search engine results.

Social Media [Founder’s Name] will create the company’s social media accounts and invest in ads on all social media platforms. The company will use targeted marketing to appeal to our target demographics.

Direct Mail [Company Name] will blanket neighborhoods surrounding its locations with direct mail pieces. These pieces will offer discounts and/or provide other inducements for people to try out our services.

Local Publications [Company Name] will announce its opening several weeks in advance through publicity pieces in multiple local newspapers and publications. Advertisements will also run to maintain exposure to relevant markets. Community newspapers, school publications, youth sports programs, and similar channels will be a major promotion effort.

Ongoing Customer Communications [Company Name] will maintain a website and publish a monthly email newsletter to tell customers about new services, classes, and basic dog training tips.

Publication Materials/Noticeboards Posters and flyers will be posted on public notice boards. To target a more specific audience, [Company Name] will also contact companies for permission to hand out flyers in their vicinity. These companies may include kennels, vet clinics, and pet stores.

Pricing Strategy

The pricing for [Company Name] will be moderate so customers will feel they receive great value when using our dog training services.

VII. Operations Plan

Functional roles.

In order to execute [Company Name]’s business model, the company needs to perform many functions, including the following:

Administrative Functions

• Bookkeeping
• Website maintenance
• Hiring and training staff

Service Functions

• Book appointments
• Monitor dog behavior
• Stock inventory and supplies

VIII. Management Team

Management team members.

[Company Name] is led by [Company Name] who has worked with dogs for her entire career. She has spent the past twenty years working in various settings including, vet clinics, kennels, shelters, and other dog training facilities, giving her considerable experience in caring for and training canines. She is thoroughly educated in the most effective training methods, making her one of the best dog trainers in the area and our company’s most valuable asset.

Though [Founder’s Name] has never run her own business, she will hire several other staff to help her run the operations and other tasks she is unfamiliar with.

Hiring Plan

[Founder’s Name] will be the owner of [Company Name] and work as one of the trainers. In order to launch, the company needs to hire the following staff:

• Dog Trainers (3 to start)
• Receptionist (1 to start)
• Maintenance Crew (2 to start)
• Administrative Assistant (1 to start)

IX. Financial Plan

Revenue and cost drivers.

The [Company Name]’s revenues will come from the fees charged for providing dog training services.

The major cost drivers for the company will include overhead, labor expenses, supplies and inventory costs, and marketing expenses.

Capital Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

  5 Year Annual Income Statement

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Dog Training Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Dog Training Business in 13 Steps

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on March 2, 2022

Investment range

$1,550 - $5,600

Revenue potential

$62,000 - $180,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 – 3 months

Profit potential

$45,000 - $72,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Here are the most essential factors to consider when starting your dog training business:

• Skills and certifications — Get professional training and certification from recognized organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) or the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) . 
• Location — Decide on a location for your training sessions. This could be at clients’ homes, a rented space, or a facility you own. Ensure the environment is safe and suitable for dogs and conducive to learning.
• Equipment and supplies — Invest in high-quality, professional training equipment such as leashes, collars, treats, clickers, agility equipment, and educational materials for your clients.
• Register your business — A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple. Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the best LLC services on the market.
• Insurance — Get liability insurance to protect yourself and your business from claims related to accidents or injuries that might occur during training sessions.
• Legal business aspects — Register for taxes, open a business bank account, and get an EIN .
• Choose a niche — Attract clients with a specific niche such as puppy training, behavioral modification, service dog training, agility training, or obedience competition.

Interactive Checklist at your fingertips—begin your dog training business today!

You May Also Wonder:

How profitable is a dog training business?

A dog training business can be very profitable. You can make a good hourly rate and you’ll have very few ongoing expenses. Better yet, you can use your skills to improve the lives of dogs.

How do I get more clients for my dog training business?

You can invest in digital marketing or pass out flyers in your neighborhood. You can also ask your current clients for referrals.

What is the most popular dog training method?

Positive reinforcement training is the most highly recommended dog training method. It involves rewarding dogs for good behavior.

How do I differentiate my dog training business from competitors?

You need to do good quality training and good results to differentiate your dog training business. You could also offer convenient training hours. 

At what age is a dog hardest to train?

Around 8 to 9 months is the hardest age to train a dog. They’ve grown and have often developed a pattern of bad behaviors.

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a dog training business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Fun! – Hang out with those cute fur babies
• Valuable Service – Make dogs and their owners happier
• Small Investment – Not much money needed to get started
• Aggressive Dogs – Not all dogs are easy to work with, nor do they always get along
• Training People – Sometimes the dog owners are the problem

Dog training industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US dog training industry is worth $272 million in 2022 and has grown modestly over the last five years.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/dog-training-services-industry/ ))
• Growth forecast – The US pet training industry is projected to grow an impressive 6% annually through 2026.(( https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5319552/u-s-pet-training-services-market-industry )) 
• Number of businesses – In 2022, 2,333 dog training businesses were operating in the US. 
• Number of people employed – In 2022, the dog training industry employed 4,987 people in the US. 

Trends and challenges

Trends in the dog training industry include:

• Dog training is increasingly focused on training the dog parents as much as the dog itself. People need to learn more about how to treat dogs, and how to communicate with them. 
• Training now has more of an emphasis on improving the overall wellness of the dog, including emotional wellness, rather than just teaching them to respond to commands. Both of these trends are opportunities for entrepreneurs who are more educated in the latest dog training techniques to differentiate their business. 

Challenges in the dog training industry include:

• Dog training techniques are becoming more science-based, which increases the need for education for dog trainers. They need to understand the psychology of dogs and their owners.
• Training to stop bad behaviors at home, rather than just teaching responses to commands, is a challenge for dog trainers.

What kind of people work in dog training?

• Gender – 57.7% of dog trainers are female, while 38.8% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/dog-trainer-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average dog trainer has a bachelor’s degree.
• Average age – The average dog trainer in the US is 37.9 years old.

How much does it cost to start a dog training business?

Startup costs for a dog training business range from $1,500 to $5,500. The low end assumes that you’ll do the training at home, in a park or in a space you can rent periodically, such as a community center. The largest expense at the low end is for a website. The high end includes renting a permanent space where you can hold your classes.

You can become a certified dog trainer through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers . You need to have:

• A minimum of 300 hours’ experience in dog training within the last 3 years
• Provide a signed attestation from a CCPDT certificant or veterinarian
• Pass an exam

You can take dog training courses through places like the Karen Pryor Academy . A basic course package costs $250 while a professional course package costs $6,000.

How much can you earn from a dog training business?

Group dog training classes cost an average of $40 per session, while private training costs about $120 per hour. In the beginning, most of your business will probably be group classes. Your profit margin if you rent a space for a few hours at a time to hold your classes should be about 70%.

In your first year or two, you could do training 6 hours per week for 5 dogs at a time, bringing in more than $62,000 in annual revenue. This would mean nearly $45,000 in profit, assuming that 70% margin. As your business gains traction and you begin to get referrals, your training hours could climb to 15 hours per week for 5 dogs at a time. You may be able to attract some private training clients at this point for 4 hours per week. You’d probably rent a small, permanent space now, reducing your profit margin to about 40%. With annual revenue of $180,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $72,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a dog training business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Acquiring the skills required to be an effective dog trainer
• Finding an inexpensive space to rent for classes

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a dog training business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research dog training businesses in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a dog training business for pit bulls or abused dogs. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as private home behavior training.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Specify your dog training programs

Your services will depend on your skill level. Here are a few training programs you can offer:

• Basic Obedience Classes : Teach fundamental commands such as sit, stay, and come.
• Behavior Modification : Address specific challenges like aggression or anxiety.
• Service Dog Training : Advanced training for dogs to assist with disabilities.
• Private Home Sessions : Personalized training at the client’s home for tailored guidance.
• Puppy Training Programs : Help new owners establish good habits and basic commands for puppies.
• Customized Training Plans : Adapt programs to the breed, size, and learning pace of each dog.

How much should you charge for dog training?

Prices for group classes range from $30 to $50. Private dog training prices range from $100 to $140. Your ongoing costs will be for space rental and insurance. You should aim for a profit margin of 70% until you get a permanent space, and then it will be closer to 40%. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be dog owners, which is a broad category. You should spread out your marketing to include sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. You could also distribute brochures to pet stores, veterinary offices, and rescue shelters. 

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you may need to rent out a space for classes. Find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “dog training” or “pet training”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Doggy Diplomas” over “Service Dog Training Services”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Discover over 430 unique dog training business name ideas here. If you want your business name to include specific keywords, you can also use our dog training business name generator. Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: A concise summary outlining the key elements of the dog training business plan, including its purpose, mission, and key highlights.
• Business Overview: A brief description of the dog training business, covering its mission, vision, values, and the problem it aims to solve in the market.
• Product and Services: Clearly defined dog training services and products offered, highlighting the unique value proposition and benefits for customers.
• Market Analysis: An examination of the dog training market, identifying target customers, market size, trends, and potential opportunities for business growth.
• Competitive Analysis: Evaluation of competitors in the dog training industry, identifying strengths and weaknesses to position the business effectively in the market.
• Sales and Marketing: Strategies and tactics for promoting and selling dog training services, including pricing, distribution, and promotional efforts to attract and retain customers.
• Management Team: Introduction to key team members and their roles, emphasizing their expertise and contributions to the success of the dog training business.
• Operations Plan: Details on the day-to-day operations of the business, including location, facilities, equipment, and processes involved in delivering dog training services.
• Financial Plan: Financial projections, including startup costs, revenue forecasts, and profit margins, providing a comprehensive overview of the financial viability and sustainability of the dog training business.
• Appendix: Supplementary materials such as additional data, charts, graphs, or supporting documents that provide further insight into the dog training business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to dog training businesses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your dog training business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family : Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a dog training business. 

Step 8: Apply for Licenses/Permits

Starting a dog training business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your dog training business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability : The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property : Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance : Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation : Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property : Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto : Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability : Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) : This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as HoneyBook , Pawfinity , or SuperSaas , to manage your scheduling, classes, billing, and payments. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Professional Branding — Ensure your branding reflects professionalism, trust, and friendliness. This includes your logo, business cards, promotional materials, website design, and social media tone.
• Website and SEO — Create a website to display your training services, client testimonials, and training philosophy. Optimize for relevant search terms like “dog training” and “puppy classes.”
• Local SEO — Optimize your Yelp and Google Business profiles and encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews to enhance local visibility.
• Social Media Engagement — Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to share success stories, training tips, and method demonstrations.
• Direct Outreach — Network with local veterinarians and pet stores, attend pet-related events, and offer free workshops to introduce your services.
• Content Marketing — Maintain a dog training blog with articles on behavior tips and advice, and send regular email newsletters with updates and training tips.
• Video Content and Testimonials — Post video tutorials and client testimonials to engage your audience and highlight your training success.
• Experiential Marketing — Host free introductory workshops and participate in local pet expos to attract and educate potential clients.
• Partnerships — Collaborate with local pet businesses like pet stores and groomers for cross-promotions and referral discounts.
• Loyalty and Referral Programs — Offer discounts to clients enrolling in multiple sessions and rewards for referrals to grow your client base.
• Targeted Advertising and Partnerships — Advertise in local media and online community groups, and build relationships with local veterinarians for referrals.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your dog training business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your dog training business could be: 

• Private training in your home for your precious pup 
• Dog training classes for the well-being of your best friend
• In-home dog behavioral training – you’ll have an obedient pup in no time!

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a dog training business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in dog training for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in dog training. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If your business grows to the point where you can’t handle the load, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a dog training business include:

• Dog Trainers – teach dog training classes
• General Manager – scheduling, staff management, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Dog Training Business – Start Making Money!

People love their dogs, but they are not always easy to control. As a dog trainer, you have the opportunity to make life better for dogs and their owners and make surprisingly good money while you’re at it. With the increasing number of dog owners, your services will be in demand, so you should never have a shortage of customers. Now that you know what’s involved, go ahead and start training your way to success!

This information is extremely helpful

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Business Name
• Create a Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Licenses/Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Dog Training Business - Start Making Money!

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Pet

A Sample Dog Training Business Plan Template

Are you about starting a dog training center? If YES, here is a complete sample dog training business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE . Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a dog training business.

We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample dog training service marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for dog training businesses. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

Why Start a Dog Training Business?

The demand for dog training services is very high especially in areas where a large number of people own dogs and where dog owners have shown willingness to invest in the welfare of their dogs.

Starting a dog training business can become something that will be profitable in a short while plus it has flexible start-up costs as the owner can decide to use little, or large funds depending on the scale in which he intends to start the business.

Dog trainers usually have vast experiences working with varying dogs and in different capacities, so it would be wise to have some sort of experience before starting this business.

As simple as the business looks, it is necessary for you to carry out a thorough research before starting this business so that you do not throw away your little financial investment. Asides from conducting a research on your dog training business, it would also be wise if you write a business plan as well.

A business plan might seem like a huge task for such a small business but it is highly necessary if you intend to run a successful dog training business. Your business plan need not be a huge affair, it can be a simple draft intended to guide you in making decisions during the course of running your business. Below is however a sample business plans for your dog training business:

1. Industry Overview

According to statistics, the united states of America has more than 77.5 million dogs, with the number projected to grow each year. This has also caused an increase in demand for dog training services. States such as New York and California have a large number of dogs and dog owners and so this makes it a thriving place for dog training businesses.

Data from the American Pet Product Association stated as at 2012, that those who spent on their pets in the United States of America, climbed to a new record revenue level of $53 billion dollars. Pet services, according to data of which dog training is a part of, generated $4.4 billion dollars in 2012, and the projection for the next several years shows a positive gain.

According to a 2015 survey, 65% of households in the United States of America own at least a pet, these amounts to over 300 million pets that need to be cared and catered for. The pet industry on its own has products and services (training, food, daycare, medical services, toys, and a whole lot of other services) on ground so as to keep these pets healthy, alive and happy.

Pets are being owned by all economic levels of households in the United States of America; however, households with higher incomes accounted for about 60% of the total money spent on pets.

Data from the American Pet Products Association (APPA) has revenue in the pet industry to be projected at $62.75 billion in 2016, which is an increase of over 4% from that of 2015. Since 2002, the average growth rate annually has been 5.4% and the revenue has been steadily growing over the last two decades.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has states that the job growth for the pet industry is expected to be above average as it had been experiencing 11% growth from 2014 which was expected to last till 2024. Also, revenue for pet services grew from $5.41 billion in 2015 to $5.73 billion in 2016.

Baby boomers are not only spending on their pets according to statistics but pampering them as well. It has been found that spending for pets has peaked between the ages of 55 and 64. Also, millennials (those born between 1985 – 2010) who have disposable income are also spending for and spoiling their pets.

The pet industry has continued to grow even during major economic downturns, which shows that the industry has a huge advantage over others.

2. Executive Summary

Woofy Dog Training Services is a standard dog training business in San Francisco – California, USA and intends to ensure that customers who owned dogs are offered training services as well as other services, such as dog sitting, grooming and so on for their dogs.

We also intend to offer consultancy and advisory services to those who intend to start the business but do not possess the know-how. Our vision is to ensure that we become the preferred dog training service here in San Francisco – California and also the top six dog training business in the whole United States of America by 2022.

To attain our vision and objectives, we have ensured that only the best professionals = from management staff to the low end staff – have been hired by us. This shows how willing we are to go the extra mile in ensuring that we lay a solid foundation in our business structure.

Our staff will not only be the best paid employees across the industry amongst similar start-ups, but they will also undergo training and performance appraisals to ensure that their skills as well as their productivity are enhanced. We know how important having a good location that is convenient for our customers is and so we have chosen a very strategic location that is not only convenient for our customers but also our employees as well.

We abhor cruelty to animals and indeed pets and so we will ensure that we hold ourselves and employees to that standard of not applying cruelty to the dogs in which we will be training. Also, we believe in achieving customer excellence and due to this, we intend to train our customer care executives in the act of answering and handling our customers – the dog owners.

While Bill Trump holds a Doctorate degree in Certified Applied Animal Behavior with clinical work for the past 10 years focused on behavioral problems in dogs; his wife Maggie holds a Masters in Business Administration from a prestigious school. The two who love dogs also have several dog training certifications and experience in this industry, and will therefore bring their experience and expertise to bear in this business.

3. Our Products and Services

Woofy Dog Training Service is an established dog training service that intends to offer all our customers and their dogs varied services in a bid to make their experience at our company a delightful one.

The reason why we intend to offer other services in addition to our main service is so as not to be able to attract more customers in our target market to our business but also boost our sources of income thereby ensuring that we have a healthy bottom line.

Our offering of other services will however be in line with the permissible laws of the United States of America. Therefore some of the products and services we intend to offer are:

• Boarding kernel
• Doggie day care
• Dog walkers
• Pet sitters
• Dog show handlers
• Pooper Scooper
• Pet boutique
• Consultancy and advisory services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to be the preferred dog trainer in California and amongst the top six dog training business in United States of America by 2022.
• Our mission is to ensure that we will meet the demands and preferences of our customers by offering different services in our dog training business for our various customers here in California.

Our Business Structure

No matter how low scaled a business is, having the right business structure is very important, and so at Woofy Dog Training Service, we are committed to ensuring that we get it right from the beginning by hiring employees who are not only dedicated and hard working to handle all the various positions in our company, but also committed to the company’s true vision and objectives.

Because we want only what’s best for Woofy Dog Training Services, we are ready to ensure that we not only correctly source the right individuals for the different available positions but that we also pay the right amount that will not only keep them committed but also improve their productivity and invariably boost out bottom line.

We intend to ensure that our management staff are those with vast experience and have the required knowledge that is necessary to ensure that we attain our goals and objectives and also be able to communicate these values not only to the employees under them but also to customers of Woofy Dog Training Services as well. Therefore, below is the business structure we intend building for Woofy Dog Training Services;

Chief Executive Officer

Admin and Human Resource Manager

Dog Trainer Supervisor

Marketing Team

Accountants/Cashiers

Customer Service Executives

Purchasing Manager

Security Guard

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

• In charge of making strategic decisions on behalf of the company
• Drafts and ensures company policies are understood and implemented by the employees
• Evaluates the success of Woofy Dog Training Service
• In charge of recruiting competent employees on behalf of the company
• Reviews employees work rate by carrying out regular performance appraisals
• Ensures that the administration of the company runs smoothly
• In charge of all the dog trainers in the facility
• Reviews dog training methods and changes ineffective or inappropriate ones
• Remains updated about happenings in the industry for the benefit of the company
• Responsible for conducting market research that will identify new target market
• Drafts and implements marketing strategies on behalf of organization
• Promotes the company via its social media platforms and official website
• In charge of invoices and dispensing cash to be used within the office
• Prepares financial statements and records on behalf of the company
• Ensures that tax is adequately prepared and submitted to the tax authorities
• In charge of answering customers’ enquiries and resolving complaints
• Keeps and updates an accurate customer database on behalf of the company
• Carries out any other duty as might be determined by the Human resources manager
• In charge of ensuring adequate supplies of items at Woofy Dog Training Services
• Liaises with reliable vendors and distributors and keeps a mutually satisfying relationship with them
• Prepares and reviews contracts for vendors and suppliers
• Ensures that all within the premises – people and property – are safe during work hours
• Keeps guard over facility after work hours
• Conducts all the ferrying of the dogs to and fro the facility
• Carries out light maintenance on vehicle and reports major faults to appropriate quarters
• Carries out any other duties as might be determined by the Human resources manager
• Ensures that the facility is kept hygienically clean at all times
• Ensures that the rest rooms are kept neat for visitors and employees
• Carries out any other duties as determined by the Human Resources  manager

6. SWOT Analysis

Due to our need to start off on the right foundation, we got the best consultant here in California who had an experience of this industry to look through our business concept and determine if it was worth the time and effort we were willing to put into it.

To ensure that the results were accurate enough, our consultant made use of the SWOT ( Strength, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats ) analysis to determine if the business was worth going into and if we were likely to succeed going into the business.

Below is the of the results from the SWOT Analysis that were conducted on behalf of Woofy Dog Training Service:

Our strength lies in the fact that we will be offering our customers other services in addition to our core service – dog training so as to be able to meet up with our customers varying needs whilst also attracting more customers to our business.

Another factor that is to our advantage is that we have well qualified staff that will ensure that the business attains its original goals and objectives here in California as well as the whole of the United States of America. Another huge strength in our favor is the husband and wife tea, Bill and Maggie Trump who are dog lovers and have several certifications as well as years of business.

California is a city after New York, where there are a lot of dog owners and dogs, which means that there are enough dog training services here in California making the market seem saturated and posing a challenge for us who intend to make an impact into this business. Regardless of the fact that our location might be our weakness, we are confident that grand opening party will pave the way for us to penetrate and grab a fair share of the market.

• Opportunities

The opportunities available to us as a business intending to make an impression are limitless as we intend to continually re-innovate our services so as to differentiate us from other dog training services. Also, we intend to offer consultancy and advocacy services as well as franchises for those who intend to start up newly in this business and have no inkling what to do.

The threats we are likely to face while starting or running a dog training business are, liability as the dogs might damage property while undergoing training; new competitors are likely to crop up in our location making it more difficult for us to hold onto our market share as they will compete with us for a share of the market.

Another threat is an economic downturn that will likely affect how dog owners spend on their dogs. As a business, we are aware of the fact that threats will crop up but we are also confident and optimistic that our laid down proactive strategies will combat any threat that might likely occur.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

Generally, this business is one that can be started with low capital as money for overhead is very low. Generally trainers rarely have a physical location to operate their dog training business; instead they travel to the homes of clients or go to boarding facilities for dogs in order to provide their services.

Also, asides from not needing to rent a physical location in which to start the business, there is also little investment that is needed in order to buy the equipment necessary to ensure that the business is being run efficiently. If you need to acquire any extra equipment at all, this might include a few extra leashes, dog treats, clickers as well as other aids that can assist in training the dogs.

Another trend is on the pricing structure where dog training rates are usually within same range in the same location, so as to make it easier to compete. However, those who tended to offer special discounted rates or give out a free session were those who were new trainers and did that in order to attract clients and grow the business.

Also, the rates for dog trainers usually fall in between the half-hourly and hourly rates especially when it is a private lesson. The rates are also lowered for group training classes.

Finally, the last trend is the use of the internet, which has been used as a major tool of penetrating the market and attracting new customers from the target market, whilst also communicating the core values of the brand via publicity through its social media platforms.

Dog training services especially those that operated from home knows how powerful deploying the internet effectively can be. Furthermore, , dog trainers’ network with kernel boarding facilities, pet boutiques and groomers, so as to be able to source for clients for their dog training business.

8. Our Target Market

Even though plenty households in the United States of America own dogs as pet and California and New York are amongst states where the highest owners of dogs and dogs themselves live, thereby spiking the demand for dog training services in this area; we still however cannot limit our target market to just households, especially here in California.

It is for this reason that we conducted a thorough market research on this industry so as to be able to garner accurate facts and data that would allow us correctly predict what our customers and the target market would be expecting from us, which would allow us better draft strategies that would serve them better.

We are therefore in business to offer our dog training services to the following groups of people here in California;

• Corporate Executives
• Business people
• Celebrities and important personalities
• Sports men and women
• Boarding facilities

Our competitive advantage

Our vision when starting Woofy Dog Training service was so that we could be the preferred dog training business here in California and also amongst the top six in the whole United States of America by 2022. To achieve this vision, we know how necessary it is for us to come up with competitive advantage strategies that will stand us apart from other dog training businesses here in California.

First off, we are going to ensure that we offer training services mixed with other dog services for our customers, as this will allow us attract and grab a better share of the target market.

Another competitive strategy is the fact that we have hired the right management staff for our company that are not knowledgeable and have vast experience but one that knows our core values as a business and also knows understands how to bring the business up from scratch to become something to be reckoned with.

We intend to ensure that our customer service executives are adequately trained to handle all our customer’s enquiries and complaints and ensure that all are promptly resolved on behalf of the organization. Asides our management staff, we intend to ensure that all our employees are adequately trained, paid and have welfare packages that are the best amongst similar dog training start-ups here in California.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Woofy Dog Training Service is a business that has been established with the aim of making profit and favorably competing with other such businesses in the pet industry in California and in the United States of America. We intend to offer different services to all the dogs of our various customers here in California as well as all over United States of America.

Therefore the sources of income we intend to generate at Woofy Dog Trainers are:

10. Sales Forecast

According to the American Pet Association, dogs are amongst the top three pets owned by most Americans, which means that demand for dog training services will continually surge.

California is one of the two top cities that have the most dog owners and dogs, which makes it a good enough place for us to not only generate enough income for our business but also start to make profit that will grow our business from the second year into the business.

The sales projections were done after much critical evaluation conducted by us as well as by a sales expert familiar with this industry. The sales expert was able to come up with this reliable forecast after gathering accurate data from similar start-ups here in California.

Below is the expected sales projection for Woofy Dog Training Services based on present data that is deemed reliable:

• First Fiscal Year-: $200,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $400,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $800,000

N.B: It should be noted that the above projections were done with available data and information that was obtained from the pet industry at the time and that was deemed accurate. The projections were done on the assumptions that the love and ownership for dogs would not decline, there won’t be any major competitors and that there won’t be a major economic meltdown to warrant customers not having enough to spend extra for their dogs. Any change in the above factors is likely to affect the sales projections figures to go up or down.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Marketing is a very important aspect of any business as it does the purpose of ensuring that money is generated for the business whilst also creating awareness for the business. However, to be able to draft effective marketing strategies for Woofy Dog Training Services, we intend to first conduct a critical and thorough marketing survey that will allow us best understand the market we intend going into and how best we would penetrate it.

Carrying out this market survey required us sourcing and getting reliable and detailed data so as to get an accurate result from our market survey, which will allow us compete against other dog training service businesses here in California.

To help us in conducting this market research, we hired a marketing expert who is not only reputable but has a deep understanding of the pet industry and what it would take to be able to penetrate the target market for customers who owned and cared for their dogs. The expert has already come up with strategies that will allow us get a large percentage of the market here in California.

Also, our marketing tea have not been out of the picture, as they have been empowered to draft, modify or review and implement effective marketing strategies to sell our services as well as products on behalf of Woofy Dog Training Service.

Marketing has however evolved digitally due to changing times, as few people are relying less on the word of mouth direct marketing and instead using the search engine or social media platforms to make their findings. And so, if you are looking to survive in this new age, you will need to ensure that you build a website for your dog training business and also get an Search Engine Optimization (SEO) expert to help you with ensuring that your website pops up on search engine when people are searching for anything related to dog training service.

Therefore, at Woofy Dog Training Service intends to adopt the following marketing and sales approach towards selling our products and services;

• Word-of-mouth or direct marketing
• Launching of a website with unique colors and logos to market our dog training services
• Place ads in local newspapers and magazines as well as on radio and television stations here in California
• Print fliers and distribute it in target areas to dog owners and lovers
• Network with dog walkers and veterinary clinics to get information about potential clients
• Ask customers for reciprocal referrals and give discounts for those who do
• Start our business with a huge bang by throwing a dog costume themed party for dog and in extension pet owners here in California so as to create awareness
• Leverage on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to market our dog training services
• Ensure that our dog training business is listed in local directories

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

No matter what kind of business one intends to go into, ensuring that one drafts and implements effective publicity and advertising strategy is very important. Also, offering publicity for our Woofy Dog Training Services will ensure that we are able to not only attract the intended customers we seek but also to compete favorably against other competitors in the market place.

There are several things that boosts the success chances of a publicity strategy and we at Woofy Dog Training Services intends to exploit these factors for the benefit of our company here in California and so as to be able to achieve our vision and objectives in the United States of America by 2022. We also intend to combine several factors in ensuring that we publicize and advertise our dog training business successfully.

Below are the publicity and advertising strategies we intend to use in promoting and communicating our Woofy Dog Training Business to customers.

• Sending out newsletters and coupons to customers – existing and potential
• Print business cards with relevant information and logo and distribute in relevant areas
• Place adverts in local newspapers, magazines as well as on local radio and television stations
• Attend dog fairs and events and create awareness for Woofy Dog Training Services
• Sponsor dog events and other related dog programs in local community
• Distribute our fliers in target locations and also paste in legal conspicuous places
• Ensure that we print customized tee-shirts for all our employees here at Woofy Dog Training Services

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Before deciding on the pricing strategy for our dog training business, we would need to conduct a thorough market research on what other dog training centers are offering their customers. Normally, trainers usually offer rates depending on the services required from customers, and so we would ensure that we offer various packages that would require different rates for our customers.

However, because we are just starting this business newly, we intend to offer prices that were slightly lower than that of our competitors in the first six months of business. Our lower rates will however still be within comparable range of existing businesses so that we do not run our business at a loss. We have carried out a detailed strategy and seen that this will encourage more customers to patronize our business.

• Payment Options

Woofy Dog Training Services intends to operate a payment policy that will suit all our different customers and whatever paying options they might prefer in paying for services offered them by our company. Therefore, the payment options we intend to offer our various customers are;

• Cash payment
• Payment via credit card
• Payment via check
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine

The above payment option platforms were carefully chosen by our bank for our target market, and we have been assured that the platforms will run without any hitches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

Even though the dog training business is not seen as a capital intensive business for any entrepreneur that wants to go into such business, it still however needs to generate capital to be successfully operational in its first few months of business and sort overhead expenses especially if it intends to rent a facility and employ staff as well as pay certain utility bills that will be incurred during the process of running the business.

Therefore the key areas where we intend to spend our start-up capital on at Woofy Dog Training Services include;

• Fee for registering the business here in the United States of America – $750
• Licenses and permits, accounting software as well as other legal expenses incurred during the registration process – $1250
• Cost of hiring a business consultant – $2,000
• Insurance coverage (General liability, property insurance, and workers’ compensation) – $4,000
• Cost of purchasing start-up equipment in bulk (such as leashes, clickers, dog treats as well as other dog aid training materials) – $10,000
• Cost of leasing and renovating a facility for dog training business for at least a year – $33,000
• Marketing and publicity expenses (for grand opening party as well as normal business operations) – $5,000
• Operational cost for the first six months of running the business (employee salaries, payment of bills) – $100,000
• Other start-up expenses which includes furniture, stationeries, phone, and computer – $5,500
• Cost of purchasing an official vehicle – $30,000
• Cost of launching a website – $500
• Cost of throwing a grand opening party – $3,000
• Other miscellaneous expenses – $5,000

From the above calculations, we would need an estimate of $200,000 if we intend to fully start and successfully run our dog training business here in California. It should be noted that the half of the start-up capital will be used to pay the salaries of our employees as well as pay certain utility bills that would be incurred during the months of operation.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Woofy Dog Training Business

Woofy Dog Training Services is a business owned and run by husband and wife, Bill and Maggie Trump. This is a family business and as such we do not intend to have any external partner which is the major reason why our sources of generating capital have been limited to three.

Therefore the areas which we intend to source for capital for our dog training business are:

• Generate part of start-up capital from personal savings
• Sourcing for soft loan from wealthy family members and friends
• Applying for loan from the bank

N.B: From our personal savings, we were able to generate the sum of about $30,000 . The soft loans from our wealthy friends and family members amounted to $40,000. We approached the bank several months bank for a loan of $130,000 and after submitting several paper works; we have not only been approved for a loan but the amount will at any moment from now be credited to our business account.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Establishing a business whose intention is to make profit and compete favorably with its competitors is just one aspect of running a business, ensuring that the business is sustained and even expanded later is another aspect that requires certain strategies, such as employees’ competence, customer loyalty as well as well as re-innovation of services strategies.

Any business that wants to remain in existence for a long time has to see to it that they employ staffs that are competent and knowledgeable enough about the business’ objectives to be able to bring it to fruition. This is why it is very important that we employ only the best hands for our dog training services from the management staff down to our trainers and other low end staff.

We intend to not only pay our workers well but also continually see to it that they undergo training every now and then that will not only enhance their skill but improve productivity for the company as well. Another aspect we intend to look into whilst implementing our sustainability and expansion strategies include ensuring that we keep our customers happy and satisfied with our services as this will ensure that they remain loyal to us.

We will continually improve on the services we offer our clients and will endeavor to listen to and act on feedback. We will also give our loyal customers discounts for every referral they bring our way, this way; we seal our customers’ loyalty to us.

Finally, we intend to ensure that our services are continually reviewed and re-innovated as this will ensure that we continue to have an edge over our competitors. With these ways, we are sure that we will comfortably be able to sustain and then expand our own business at our own pace.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting feasibility studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• writing of business plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – wholesale suppliers / merchants: In Progress
• Purchase of trucks: Completed

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Starting A Dog Training Business From Home

The service dog training community has now become an important and fast-growing part of the dog training market, due to an increase in the public interest and an expanded need for dogs trained to meet specific assistance requirements of clients.

U.S. dog training professionals, in an ongoing effort to keep up with the latest methods and techniques, are currently looking at options to further research and acquire business capital.

Wise Business Plans Offering free dog training business plan to entrepreneurs, a long-time leader in the global business planning industry, supports dog training entrepreneurs with in-depth market analysis and consumer trends data to assist dog trainers in remaining solvent and meeting future profit margins.

How to Start a Dog Training Business

The majority of dog owners either don’t know how to train their dogs effectively or don’t have the time to do it. Dog training businesses offer dog owners a convenient, safe, and efficient method to train their canines. A business may be located in the home or in a commercial space, or a trainer may visit clients in their homes. If you want to start a dog training business, here are some simple steps

1. Create Your Dog Training Business Plan

When you start a new business , having a plan can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Business plans outline the company’s objectives and goals. You can use a business plan for inspiration. The plan should outline your products or services, as well as budget requirements.

Do You Need Help in Creating a Dog Training Business Plan?

Our clients no longer have to worry about the complexities of writing a professional business plan. Our MBA-qualified business plan writers have written over 15000+ business plans for over 400 industries in over a decade.

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2. Make Your Business Valuable

Take pride in your knowledge and skills. Selling yourself and your packages requires you to become an excellent salesperson. No matter how new you are to your profession, you should charge professional rates. People value money over everything else.

3. Be A Professional

Have confidence in yourself as the dog trainer. You help people because they need help in this area, which is your expertise. When it comes to dogs and their owners, you know what is best for them. Don’t be afraid to say “no”.

4. Get a Business License and Permits

If you want to open a business, you’ll need permission from your state. For example, you probably need a business license . Depending on your local government, you may also need a license and other permits.

Do You Need a License for Dog Training Business?

Licenses for businesses can be complex to obtain. A wise business plan makes it effortless for you to acquire a dog training business license.

Let Wise Business Plans help you to Get your License for Dog Training Business

5. Pursue a Dog Training Certificate

You need to pursue a dog training certificate before you start your business. However, a certificate program can give you the expertise you might not otherwise obtain through work experience. You can also advertise that you are a certified dog trainer.

6. Gain Experience with Dogs

Before starting your own dog training business, you should spend a lot of time with dogs. All dog trainers have at least had some training experience prior to starting their business. Here are some ways to gain experience.

• dog groomer
• dog show handler

7. Form a Legal Entity

The process of registering a dog training business is similar to registering any other type of business. In general, sole proprietorships , partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs) , and corporations are the most commonly used types of business entities. No matter what type of business structure you choose for the business, the processes and requirements are the same.

Need to Register a Dog Training Business?

We at Wise Business Plans provide you with a wide range of business formation services for incorporating a business in a way that makes the process easy and allows you to stay focused on other important tasks.

Register Your Dog Training Business Now

How much does it Cost to Start a Dog Training Business?

The average cost to start a dog daycare business can range from $10,000 to $40,000, the average expense of a commercial rent is $4,500 each month however can run as low as $3,000 and as high as $7,500 each month. Lease expenses vary according to the size of the area covered, the features of the facility, and so forth.

Is Dog Training Profitable?

The simple answer is Yes. The profitability of dog daycare is on the rise as compared to other pet franchises as Dog training services are in high demand as pet owners keep on exhibiting a willingness to invest in the well-being of their animals.

Having a Well Trained Dog is a Good Choice

Dog Training Business Plan by Wise Business Plans

“Obedience and safety are important foundations of dog obedience training school and knowing that your pet or working dog has been effectively trained in these areas will make your dog a better citizen and a more reliable companion,” said Joseph Ferriolo, Director of Wise Business Plans.

“At Wise, we believe in effective training and have a team of professionals that constantly researches, trains, and works to efficiently complete free dog training business plan professionals that will meet individual client needs in a timely and courteous manner.”

The Wise Business Planning team of experts utilizes careful market research on many levels, and an understanding of both the client base and potential sources of continuing cash flow , to formulate an individual outline for achieving success.

Other Major Business Services for Dog Training Business

Starting a dog training business? Wise business plans offer you a quick and easy guide to start your own dog training business , as well as assistance in every step along the way from funding to registering or licensing a business entity, branding, and marketing. Following are our main services

• LLC, S Corporation and NonProfit Business Formation
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Wise business plans also offer a  net 30 account application . If you buy products on a Net-30 account, you have 30 days after the purchase date to pay the full bill. Having a Net 30 account can also make managing your business finances easier.  Apply for your net 30 business accounts now

Yes, starting a dog training business from home is possible. Many successful dog trainers operate their businesses from home, utilizing their indoor or outdoor spaces for training sessions.

While formal certifications or qualifications are not always mandatory, obtaining relevant certifications or completing dog training courses can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your expertise to clients.

The necessary equipment and supplies for a dog training business may include treats, training aids (such as clickers or target sticks), leashes, collars, agility equipment (if offering agility training), training mats, and a secure and suitable training area.

Effective marketing strategies for attracting clients may include creating a professional website, utilizing social media platforms, offering free or discounted introductory sessions, partnering with local pet-related businesses, and leveraging positive client testimonials and reviews.

Training programs or classes should be tailored to the needs of the dogs and their owners. They may include basic obedience training, socialization, behavior modification, puppy training, or specialized training for specific activities (e.g., agility, scent work). Clear learning objectives, structured curriculum, and progressive training techniques are essential.

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All those doggie kisses can be yours when you care for and train a dog, either your own or the family pet.

Dog, Animal

Provide complete care for a purebred or crossbred dog for at least 90 days, including obedience training and/or showing your animal. You will keep complete records on the costs of feeding and caring for a dog.

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The Palouse Region's premiere choice for dog training, behavior modification and service dogs

It's about the whole picture.

A healthy, happy dog has balance - nutritionally, mentally, and physically. Behavioral issues often arise when one of your dog's core needs is not being met. We specialize in creating individualized wellness plans that address all of your canine's core needs. Contact us today to set up an initial consulation - we would love to help you address any issues you may be experiencing.

& rehabilitation

We specialize in creating custom training programs to meet the individualized needs of your dog. We do everything from basic obedience to behavioral modification for the most problematic behaviors, including anxiety, biting, aggression and resource guarding. We offer several options ranging from group classes and private lessons to residency. Click the training Link above fo additional information. Feel free to call us with any questions or to set up an appointment for assessment.

custom service dog training

Prana K9 trains custom service dogs for autism, PTSD and general assistance. Some of the tasks we can train include: anxiety alerts, panic attack and nighmare interruption, deep pressure therapy, turning off and on light switches, opening doors, picking up dropped objects, finding lost objects, and bracing. An exhaustive list of task can downloaded on our service dog page. Please contact us with an questions you might have or to inquire about available dogs.

Needs assistance training your own service dog? Ask us about our train-your-own-service dog program

Downloadable List of Available Service Dog Tasks