FAQs
I'm new at dog-sitting and don't have many clients. How can I get more business? Answer: The easiest (and quickest!) way is to advertise your business on NextDoor or use an app such as Wag or Rover. As time goes on, you will start getting referrals - lots of them if you are professional and work to keep the owners and their pups happy. Online apps will be more beneficial if you can get your clients to leave a review. You can also get clients by letting everyone you know that you are in the dog-sitting business. Word of mouth plays an important role in almost any business so do not underestimate the benefits of letting dog-owners and even people without dogs know you are an official dog-sitter.
What breeds are the hardest to handle? Should I limit which ones I accept? Answer: This is a personal preference, but we highly recommend that you get a good book on all of the different types of dogs and their general personalities, sizes, temperaments, and grooming requirements and then look at your home and what you can accommodate. If you do not have a lot of experience with dogs - and especially with big dogs - then do not start out taking pitbulls, German Shepherds, Dobermans, or any other larger dog that might be more than you can handle. Golden Retrievers and other generally mellow dogs may be fine for you, but keeping them smaller in the beginning can help you build confidence so that a larger, more stubborn pup won't be able to get the best of you. Also keep in mind the available sleeping quarters for any canine you watch. Do you have a place for a larger pup to sleep? And finally, how messy of a dog can you accommodate? White carpets and big, dirty paws do not go well together. Bigger dogs make bigger messes. It's just that simple. However, if you like big dogs and you have the room, you'll always be able to get plenty of clients. There is lots to consider when choosing which clients you should accept. Take your time and make sure you are comfortable with your guests no matter their size.