Running a dog walking business isn’t just about loving dogs.
It’s about managing people, boundaries, energy, finances and yourself.
As we come to the end of the year, I wanted to share a short update on what I’ve been working on behind the scenes, what’s coming up in 2026 and how I’ll continue supporting dog walkers to build businesses that support their lives – not consume them. This blog is adapted from a short year-end update I shared on The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, where I reflected on the year just gone and what’s ahead for pet professionals in 2026.
A Year-End Reflection
This year has been a big one.
Alongside mentoring dog walkers through The Dog Walking Business Mentor, I’ve stepped further into speaking, industry collaboration and wellbeing-focused support – all rooted in the same belief I bring into every mentoring conversation:
Healthy businesses are built by healthy humans.
As the year draws to a close, there’s often pressure to plan harder, push more and “get everything sorted” before January.
In reality, reflection and rest are just as important – especially in physically and emotionally demanding roles like dog walking.
What’s Coming in 2026
In 2026, I’ll be supporting dog walkers and pet professionals in a range of ways – both online and in person.
Here’s a snapshot of what’s ahead:
- January – Delivering a webinar for Kids Around Dogs (KAD) approved professionals
- From January – Running monthly wellbeing and personal development sessions with Pet Professional Network (PPN)
- From February – Hosting monthly member mentoring sessions for the International Institute of Canine Ethics (IICE)
- March – Attending the Pet Remedy Conference by the Sea
- June – Sponsoring my first industry event: Canine Principles – The Inside Out Symposium
- October – Attending the PACT Conference
Alongside this, I’ll continue mentoring dog walkers through The Dog Walking Business Mentor – supporting both new starters and established businesses who want clarity, confidence and sustainable growth.
Why This Matters for Dog Walkers
Dog walking is often underestimated.
Behind the scenes, many dog walkers are juggling:
- physically demanding days
- emotional responsibility for clients’ dogs
- inconsistent income or pricing worries
- blurred boundaries with clients
- very little time to actually switch off
That’s why my mentoring doesn’t just focus on pricing, systems and services.
It also looks at:
- setting and maintaining boundaries
- building confidence in your decisions
- avoiding burnout before it creeps in
- creating a business that fits your life, not the other way around
This balance between practical business support and sustainability will remain at the heart of my work going into 2026.
Free Support for Dog Walkers
If you’re a dog walker or thinking about becoming one – these free resources may help as you head into the new year.
🐾 5 Steps to a Successful Dog Walking Business
A clear, practical checklist to help you feel more confident about setting up or refining your dog walking business – without feeling overwhelmed.
👉 Download the free checklist here
🧡 Pet Pro Rescue Plan
A wellbeing-focused guide many dog walkers use to plan time off properly – without guilt, panic or business chaos.
👉 Access the free guide here
A Gentle Reminder as the Year Ends
As we move towards Christmas and into the new year, you don’t need everything figured out by January.
Rest counts.
Reflection counts.
Taking your foot off the pedal even briefly – counts.
You can build a successful dog walking business without burning yourself out and support is there when you’re ready.
Want support in 2026?
If you’d like help starting, refining or stabilising your dog walking business next year, you’re always welcome to get in touch.
