22 Pros & Cons Of Starting A Dog Training Business (2024)

Updated: January 18th, 2023
Start A Dog Training Business

Please note that the data provided in this article are estimates and may vary depending on various factors, and should not be considered as perfect or definitive.

Trying to understand the pros and cons of starting a dog training business?

Here are all of the pros and cons of selling dog training online:

Learn more about starting a dog training business:

Where to start?

-> How to start a dog training business?
-> How much does it cost to start a dog training business?

Need inspiration?

-> Other dog training business success stories
-> Examples of established dog training business
-> Marketing ideas for a dog training business

Other resources

-> Dog training business tips

Pros Of A Dog Training Business

Pros Description

Flexibility

You can put as much time into the business as you'd like. If you like the work and have some initial experience, you can start small and manage all aspects of the business on your own.

Ability to start your business from home

It's not necessary to have a physical storefront or office space to get your business started. You can do everything from the comfort of your own home, at least in the beginning!

Rewarding work

Starting a dog training business can be really rewarding work. After all, you are solving an immediate issue for your customer and you're working on something you truly care about.

No overhead costs

To get your dog training business started, there are no costs associated with overhead, storage, packaging, etc. This will save you a lot of time and money!

Meaningful business connections

You never know who you will meet as a dog training business. This could be the start of an incredible business opportunity!

Quick build time

The average time it takes to build your product is quick - typically around 7 months. This will allow you to bring your product to market faster.

Pick & choose the clients you work with

Dog Training Businesses have the ability to choose the clients they work with. You have the freedom to work with only a few loyal clients or with hundreds of clients!

Daily physical activity

Dog Training Business's typically involve a much greater degree of movement than other lines of work. Most days, you will spend your day walking, running errands for your business, and performing a multitude of tasks. This can have a positive impact on energy levels and your overall health.

You are your own boss!

With starting a dog training business, you are the one to make decisions for almost all of the operations. Calling the shots can be empowering and liberating!

Local Community

One of the best parts of starting a dog training business is that you can develop a local following by selling your products at craft shows, farmers' markets, or even local storefront businesses! This gives you access to additional revenue streams and loyal customers.

Higher likelihood of getting referrals

This business is all about referrals, which can be a a very impactful way to attract and retain customers. It's critical that you have a great referral program in place that incentivizes your customers to tell their friends about your product.

Face to face interaction

If you are the type of individual that thrives on human interaction, then this is the business for you! With a dog training business, you will be hands-on with customers and or employees every day.

Simple business model

A dog training business has the advantage of a simple business model, which makes launching and building the business more seamless.

You get to do something you truly love

With starting a dog training business, you get to put your energy into something you are truly passionate about! You'll find yourself devoting as much time and energy as possible into the business to make it successful.

Cons Of A Dog Training Business

Cons Description

Crowded Space

Competition is high when it comes to your dog training business, so it's important that you spend a good amount of time analyzing the market and understanding where the demand lies.

Low margins

The gross margins for your dog training business are typically around 20%, which can make it more challenging to incur new expenses and maintain profitability.

Stressful work

This line of work can be stressful for both you and your clients. This type of transaction is a significant financial decision for your client, so expectations are very high for you. Although this career path can be very rewarding, it also comes with its challenges and stressful moments.

Time commitment

With starting a dog training business, all responsibilities and decisions are in your hands. Although this is not necessarily a negative thing, work life can take over at times. This can place a strain on friends and family and add to the pressure of launching a new business.

Work is not always glamorous

With starting a dog training business, you may need to get your hands a little dirty. Although it may seem glamorous from the outside to start this business, the work can require a lot of physical activity and repetition.

The job can be demanding

This is one of the major disadvantages starting a dog training business. It's important to understand that you may need to make yourself available on a 24/7 basis.

You'll spend a lot of time in the car

Many dog training business offer their services outside of their office or home, which means you'll be spending quite a bit of time behind the wheel. You will also need to consider traffic and delays, which can be time consuming and take each job longer than expected.

The job can be dangerous

Your dog training business can have its dangerous moments, which puts you and your employees at risk. It's important to consider all liability and put processes and procedures in place that will prepare you and your team.