While they say the first step is always the hardest, the second might be the most important. From finding new customers to choosing the right booking software for you, there’s a lot to figure out when starting your journey in the pet care industry.
If you’ve opened the door to lots of furry friends as a dog trainer or behaviourist, we not only have a round of appaws for you, but also a helping hand for your new business.
We know a little about taking a leap into the pet care industry — after all, Pata was created by pet parents who wanted a better way to manage appointments for their four-legged pals. But we’re also lucky enough to work with some amazing training organisations run by experts in their field.
We caught up with our Pata partners who teach pet care professionals like you, getting their top tips for new business owners. Here’s what Ross McCarthy (tutor at the Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour & Training), Clare Drew (Chairwoman for the Guild of Dog Trainers), and Helen Wainwright (Founding Co-Director of The Dog Trainer School) had to say.
CIDBT: It is vital to assess the market and your local competitors. What do you offer that they don't? What is their business model? How can you position yourself within the market and make your product unique, while ensuring it is priced appropriately?
TDTS: Anyone looking to set up a new dog training business should really understand their demographic. Speak with local dog owners/guardians, vets and pet businesses to find out what challenges they face, what breeds are most popular and who your clients are more likely to be.
CIDBT: There are many ways — it starts with your website and how you use social media to drive people there. Building veterinary relationships and other professional collaborations is also essential to grow your dog training business.
TDTS: Offer free Lunch and Learns at vet clinics; talks at local schools and WI groups; partner with secure fields or pet shops for cross‑promotions; and create helpful content (like blogs or short videos) to showcase your knowledge. Most importantly, deliver a brilliant service. Word‑of‑mouth referrals are the most powerful tool, and happy clients are your best ambassadors.
GoDT: Administration can take up a huge amount of time for dog trainers and professionals alike. Using a client management software, like Pata booking platform, is a great way to stay organised, and on top of your time, business and clients.
TDTS: The more you can automate routine tasks, the more energy you'll have for the hands‑on work that matters. Scheduling software can handle bookings, reminders and payments without you spending hours on your laptop, and we provide done‑for‑you resources, from training plans to client handouts, so our members aren't reinventing the wheel.
CIDBT: Being stuck in an ideology that does not help your clients — which often results in people seeking training elsewhere. Be honest, open-minded, and work in the best interests of your clients and their dogs.
GoDT: Many trainers stretch themselves too thin, getting drawn into working with a client and their dog where experience is lacking, because they want to help everyone or because they’re building a new business and don’t want to turn work away. It’s imperative to work only with the dogs and clients that you have the skills for, and learn when to refer.
TDTS: One common mistake is undervaluing the importance of working with the human half of the team. Training is as much (if not more so) about coaching people as it is about teaching dogs. Invest time in developing your listening and teaching skills, set realistic expectations and remember that empathy and encouragement go a long way.
CIDBT: The Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour & Training is highly recommended, along with gaining hands-on experience across all aspects and disciplines within the industry.
TDTS: Look for programmes that emphasise modern, science‑based, force‑free methods. The Dog Trainer School's Foundation and Reactivity courses are designed around current best practice and include practical teaching skills alongside theory.
CIDBT: You can be the best dog trainer in the world, but if no one knows about you, you won't succeed. Marketing skills, report-writing skills, and the ability to create and maintain relationships and partnerships are all essential — and much more besides!
CIDBT: Outside of the comprehensive courses available through CIDBT, the Guild of Dog Trainers and the Canine & Feline Behaviour Association are excellent places to start.
GoDT: Canine professionals are very welcome to contact the Guild to seek advice and ask questions about the industry. We are here to help dog trainers grow and develop into the best they can be.
TDTS: Building and growing a dog training business is both challenging and rewarding, and a supportive network like TTDTS really can help make all the difference.
You heard the experts — it’s important to stay organised as you grow your dog training business, and Pata is here to help. Our easy-to-use booking software is packed with flexible and intuitive tools that reduce admin and make managing your business a breeze.
There’s also the Pata Marketplace which connects you with local pet owners looking for your services. All this and more with no upfront or monthly fees, so you get access to powerful features from the very beginning. Book a free demo or sign up to take the next step in your journey.