Must Haves for New Dog Walkers
The Professional’s Toolkit: 5 Essentials Every Dog Walker Needs
Running a professional dog walking business is a dream job, but it requires being prepared for anything. Whether I’m navigating a busy city street or hitting the trails, I rely on a specific set of tools to keep the pups safe and my workflow smooth.
Here are the 5 things you will always find in my gear bag:
A Durable Dog Walking Bag: I keep everything organized in a specialized dog walking bag that has dedicated pockets for my supplies. It’s a game-changer for staying hands-free and prepared for any situation.
Hands-Free Leash: This is my top recommendation for any walker. It allows me to handle treats, water, and waste bags without fumbling with a leash handle, giving me much better control.
Reliable, Supportive Shoes: I’m on my feet all day, so I never compromise on footwear. Good, supportive shoes are the difference between a great day on the trail and sore feet by noon.
The PupFlask: Hydration is non-negotiable. The PupFlask Large Dog Water Bottle is my go-to because the built-in, reversible leaf-shaped bowl allows me to offer fresh water anywhere without carrying a separate dish.
Plenty of Poop Bags: It sounds simple, but I always carry double what I think I’ll need. Staying stocked up on high-quality, leak-proof poop bags is the hallmark of a responsible, professional walker.
Are you starting your own pet care business?
I’ve put together a Dog Walking Business Kit that includes all the templates I use to run my own business, from client intake forms to contracts! You can find it right here in the “shop” section on the drop down menu on my website.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you! I only recommend products I truly use and love.
