Start a dog walking and training business

The short answer

Combining dog walking with training is one of the most rewarding ways to build a business around dogs. Owners value it, it sets you apart from other walkers, and training work is usually priced higher than a standard walk.

You can start a dog training business on your own. But because anyone can call themselves a dog trainer, trust and credibility are everything, and building both from scratch takes time.

From 2026/27, We Love Pets franchisees can add tailored training walks to their business: an additional, premium service, with each walk tailored to the individual dog. And for franchisees who want to take it further, we'll be offering qualifications in dog training, run by one of the UK's leading dog trainers.

Starting a dog training business on your own: what to know

Credibility is the whole game

Dog training isn't a regulated profession in the UK, so there's no single licence or qualification that proves you know what you're doing. That's exactly why owners look hard for signs of trust: recognised training, insurance, reviews and a professional brand. Building those from scratch takes time and money.

Training on its own can be hard to fill

Pure training businesses often rely on classes or one-off sessions, which can make income patchy. Owners who need training also need walking, sitting and holiday care, so a business that offers both tends to keep clients for longer.

You still need everything else

Register your business, take out specialist insurance, check local park rules and find clients, exactly as you would for a dog walking business, plus the cost and time of your own training and development.

Why training walks work so well in a walking business

They build loyalty. An owner who sees their dog improving with you is unlikely to switch to a cheaper walker.

They're worth more. As a premium service, training walks raise the value of each visit without needing more hours in the day.

They set you apart. Most local walkers just walk. Offering tailored training gives owners a clear reason to choose you.

They fit the rhythm of the day. Training walks slot in alongside regular walks, puppy visits and pet sitting, rather than needing a separate venue.

Training expertise at the heart of the business

We Love Pets co-founder Ryan White has taught animal care at college and university, trained police dogs, and worked across Europe in dog training roles. He's a dog behaviour specialist and media contributor, and that expertise shapes how we train our franchisees.

Read our story →

The franchise route: walking, training and more, with support

With a We Love Pets franchise, you run your own pet care business in an exclusive territory, offering dog walking, puppy care, pet sitting, home boarding and more, and from 2026/27 you can add tailored training walks as a premium extra.

You don't need previous pet care experience. You'll get full training before you launch, including the Level 2 Canine Care Award and pet first aid, plus free, unlimited online courses with our sister company Animal Ed. If you'd like to continue on the dog training pathway, we'll be offering qualifications in dog training, run by one of the UK's leading dog trainers. Behind you there's a trusted national brand, launch marketing, proven systems, a 24/7 vet advice line and a community of 115 franchisees.

The franchise fee is £12,995 + VAT, with funding available through a government-backed Start Up Loan, plus a 10% management fee on turnover. Going solo is cheaper to start, and we'd always encourage you to weigh both routes honestly. Our dog walking business guide includes a full side-by-side comparison.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a qualification to start a dog training business?

There's no legal requirement for a specific qualification in the UK. But because the field isn't regulated, owners look carefully for recognised qualifications, insurance and a trustworthy brand before booking anyone.

What are We Love Pets tailored training walks?

They're a new, additional service for 2026/27: walks tailored to the individual dog and what their owner wants to work on, delivered by franchisees who've completed extra training.

Can I gain a dog training qualification?

Yes, if you'd like to. For franchisees who want to continue on the dog training pathway, we'll be offering qualifications in dog training, run by one of the UK's leading dog trainers. It's an option, not a requirement.

Do I need dog training experience to become a franchisee?

No. You don't need any previous pet care or training experience. Our core training covers what you need to launch, and you can choose to build on it with the dog training pathway.

Are training walks priced higher than normal walks?

Yes. Training walks are a premium, additional service, priced higher than a standard walk, which makes them a valuable addition to a pet care business.

Can I offer training walks alongside other services?

Yes. Training walks sit alongside dog walking, puppy care, pet sitting, home boarding and the other services franchisees offer, so you can build a varied, year-round business.

Should I start a training business on my own or join a franchise?

If you already have strong training experience and want total independence, going solo can work. If you'd rather build on a trusted brand, proven systems, training and support, a franchise removes many of the hardest parts. Our free Info Pack sets out exactly what's involved.

Love the idea of walking and training dogs?

Book a relaxed chat with Jasmin below. We'll tell you more about tailored training walks, what running a branch involves, and whether it's the right fit for you.