Pet Business Ideas: Your Ultimate Guide to Starting a Pet-Focused Business

The pet industry continues to grow in the United States, offering entrepreneurs an exciting opportunity to combine passion with profit. From dog grooming and training to mobile pet sitting and pet waste removal, there’s no shortage of pet business ideas for those who want to break into the world of entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover or someone who recognizes the booming demand for pet services, this guide walks you through:

• Why Start a Pet Business?
• Who Makes a Great Pet Business Owner?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Pet Business
• Popular Pet Business Ideas
• Understanding the Pet Owner Mindset
• Common Challenges Pet Business Owners Face
• How to Market a Local Pet Business
• Providing Excellent Service: The Key to Retention
• Side Hustle vs. Full-Time Pet Business: What’s the Difference?
• Franchise vs. Independent: Which Pet Business Model Works Best?
• Why Pooper Scooper Services Deserve More Attention
• What to Expect When Franchising with DoodyCalls
• Growing Beyond a One-Person Operation
• Final Thoughts: Is a Pet Business Right for You?
• Ready to Learn More? 

Why Start a Pet Business?

There are more than 86 million dog-owning households in the U.S., and pet spending reached over $147 billion in 2023 alone. Dogs, cats, and other furry friends aren’t just pets anymore – they’re family. And families are willing to spend on convenience, cleanliness, and care.

Here’s why starting a pet business could be your next big move:

The Pet Industry is Booming

The pet care and services industry has shown consistent growth, even during economic downturns. More people are working from home, adopting pets, and looking for services that improve their quality of life.

It’s Personally Rewarding

For those who love animals or want meaningful work, helping pet owners meet the needs of their pets can be incredibly satisfying.

High Demand + Low Competition Niches Exist

Everyone knows about dog walking and grooming, but few people consider pet waste removal services, even though they’re in high demand and offer room to grow.

Replace (Not Supplement) Your Income

Unlike many “gig” pet businesses, the right pet business model has the potential to become your full-time source of income, not just a side hustle.

Can you turn piles of poop into profit? Explore a growing opportunity in the pet industry with DoodyCalls >

Who Makes a Great Pet Business Owner?

Not everyone who loves pets is ready to run a pet business, and that’s okay. The most successful pet business owners combine their passion for animals with a strong desire to build something of their own.

You might be a great fit for a pet business if:

• You’re reliable and take pride in a job well done. Pet owners value consistency, cleanliness, and professionalism, especially when trusting someone with their pet or property.
• You want more control over your time and income. Whether you’re tired of a rigid schedule or looking to leave the 9–5 grind, owning a business gives you the freedom to build around your goals.
• You enjoy being active and working outdoors. Pet waste removal and other mobile services often involve being on your feet, driving to clients, and working independently.
• You’re a strong communicator. Clear, courteous communication helps you build trust with clients, manage employees, and grow through referrals.
• You’re ready to learn. You don’t need experience in the pet industry or business ownership. What matters is your willingness to follow a system, ask questions, and grow over time.

If this sounds like you, a pet business, especially one backed by a franchise like DoodyCalls, could be a rewarding and realistic path to entrepreneurship.

Do you have what it takes to start a pooper scoop business? Discover the essential skills for franchising with DoodyCalls >

Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Pet Business

Determining the best pet business to start will depend on a lot of factors, including your skills, experience, and goals. We’ve broken down some of the common FAQs around pet business below, so you can make a confident decision.

Do I need prior experience with pets to start a pet business?

Not necessarily. While being a pet lover helps, many pet businesses are more about dependability, organization, and customer service than hands-on pet expertise. For example, pet waste removal services or retail-based businesses may require less animal handling than a grooming business or dog training.

If you’re starting a more specialized service (like training or grooming), you may need certifications or training. But if you’re running a service business with the right systems in place, your business skills can be just as important as your pet knowledge.

How much does it cost to start a pet business?

Startup costs can vary widely depending on the type of business. A home-based pet sitting service may only require minimal equipment and licensing, while a brick-and-mortar pet store or grooming services could involve a significant upfront investment.

Mobile services like dog walking or pet waste removal fall somewhere in between, often requiring a vehicle, branded gear, and marketing materials. Franchises may include bundled startup costs in exchange for training, branding, and support, which can reduce guesswork for new owners.

How do I know if there’s demand in my area?

A great first step is to take a walk through your neighborhood. Are there a lot of dog owners? Are there busy professionals or retirees who may need help with pet care? Local Facebook groups, neighborhood forums, and Google searches can also help you gauge what services already exist and where there may be gaps.

You can also speak with fellow business owners or attend local networking events to learn more about community needs. Get involved in your community, attend local events, and connect with pet owners to learn more about the services missing in your area.

What are the biggest challenges new pet business owners face?

One of the biggest hurdles is simply getting noticed. Many new businesses struggle with visibility, especially if they offer a service pet owners may not be familiar with, like pet transportation or waste removal. Marketing, networking, and building a referral base are essential early on.

Other challenges include managing your time, keeping up with demand, and staying consistent with service. If you plan to grow beyond a one-person operation, hiring and training reliable team members can also be a learning curve.

Can I run a pet business without working weekends or nights?

It depends on the business model. Being a dog walker or offering services like pet sitting or boarding often require availability during mornings, evenings, and weekends. However, other options, such as mobile grooming, pet waste removal, or product-based businesses, may offer more flexibility in your schedule.

If work/life balance is important to you, it’s worth choosing a model that aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals.

Should I franchise or go independent?

That depends on your preferences, resources, and confidence level. If you enjoy figuring things out on your own, already have business experience, or want full creative control, going independent might be right for you.

But if you’re looking for support with branding, operations, training, and growth strategies (and you’d rather not reinvent the wheel), franchising can be a great way to jump-start your business. It provides an established model, professional tools, and a community of fellow owners you can learn from.

Ready to learn more? We’re answering the most common questions about starting a business in the pet care industry > 

Popular Pet Business Ideas

Here are some of the most popular and potentially profitable pet-related businesses:

1. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Businesses

Ideal for animal lovers who want a low-barrier entry into the industry, pet sitting businesses and dog walking offer flexibility. Services can include overnight care, daycare, or regular walks.

• Pros: Easy to start, low cost.
• Cons: Hard to scale, income depends on availability and client volume.

2. Mobile Pet Grooming

Groomers who go directly to clients offer convenience and personalized care. Pet parents with anxious or elderly pets especially love this model.

• Pros: Premium pricing potential, loyal clientele.
• Cons: Requires a mobile unit, equipment, and grooming certification.

3. Pet Retail or Pet Store

Opening a pet supply store, in person or online, allows you to sell pet food, pet treats, toys, and health products. With creativity and good branding, eCommerce sites with niche pet products can also thrive.

• Pros: Strong margins on consumables, recurring revenue.
• Cons: Inventory management, high startup costs, and stiff competition.

4. Pet Training

With millions of new pets in American homes, training services are in demand. Dog trainers help correct behavior, teach obedience, and support pet wellness.

• Pros: Impactful service, loyal clients.
• Cons: Requires expertise and certifications, slow client ramp-up.

5. Pet Photography or Events

Pet portraits, birthday parties, and even dog weddings – yes, they’re real! These pet-friendly, creative side businesses are perfect for artists and event planners.

• Pros: Fun and niche.
• Cons: Limited scalability, seasonal demand.

6. Pooper Scooper Businesses

Still one of the most overlooked pet business ideas, pooper scooper services solve a problem nearly every dog owner faces: cleaning up the yard.

• Pros: Low barrier to entry, essential service, recurring revenue.
• Cons: Physical work, requires marketing to educate new customers.

Love jobs working with dogs? Here’s why you should consider a pooper scooper franchise > 

Understanding the Pet Owner Mindset

To thrive in the pet industry, you need to understand pet owners, especially what drives their decisions.

Pets are Family

Today’s pet parents view their dogs and cats as family members. This emotional connection increases spending on convenience, safety, pet health, and hygiene.

People Will Pay for Cleanliness & Convenience

Pet waste removal isn’t glamorous, but it solves a pain point for pet owners who are short on time, have mobility limitations, or simply want a cleaner yard.

Trust is Everything

Pet owners want to know their pet, family, and property are in good hands. Being reliable, professional, and communicative builds loyalty and retention.

Launch a business with purpose. Discover the values-driven approach DoodyCalls takes to pet waste management > 

Common Challenges Pet Business Owners Face

Starting any small business has its hurdles. Here are common challenges new pet entrepreneurs may encounter:

• Customer education: Not everyone knows your service, including poop scooping, is even an option.
• Hiring: As you grow, finding team members who share your standards can be tough.
• Seasonality: Some services (like outdoor events or grooming) may fluctuate seasonally.
• Weather: If you’re offering outdoor services, rain or snow can impact your schedule.
• Time limitations: Many businesses (like dog walking or sitting) trade time for money.

This is where franchising can provide critical support with systems, tools, and coaching to overcome these roadblocks.

Can franchising help you grow your small business? Find out now > 

How to Market a Local Pet Business

Getting your name out there is essential, especially when your service may be unfamiliar to some or you’re joining a saturated market. A comprehensive marketing strategy is essential for growing a profitable pet business

Local SEO

Make sure your business shows up in search results by setting up Google Business Profile and getting customer reviews. Manage an up-to-date website to help reach your target audience.

Social Media

Show off your work, share funny dog content, and highlight client testimonials on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

Pet Events & Sponsorships

Sponsor a pet walk or set up a booth at a local dog park or pet daycare. Community involvement builds trust.

Direct Mail & Flyers

A well-placed flyer in a neighborhood with lots of dogs can go a long way towards generating leads.

DoodyCalls helps you with all of this through its robust marketing toolkit – no marketing experience needed.

DoodyCalls franchise owners have a competitive advantage in the pet waste management industry. Learn more > 

Providing Excellent Service: The Key to Retention

Once you earn a customer’s trust, you want to keep it. Here’s how to stand out in your community:

• Be dependable: Show up on time and do what you say.
• Communicate: Let clients know about schedule changes or service updates.
• Be respectful: Treat properties and pets with care.
• Go above and beyond: A clean yard and friendly attitude go a long way.

At DoodyCalls, customer satisfaction is a priority, and franchise owners have tools and systems to deliver high-quality service consistently.

Our franchise owners go above and beyond to serve their community. Hear directly from DoodyCalls franchisees on why their business is so rewarding > 

Side Hustle vs. Full-Time Pet Business: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve browsed pet business ideas online, you’ve likely seen side hustle options like pet sitting apps, dog walking gigs, or selling homemade treats on Etsy. These can be great for testing the waters, but they often fall short when it comes to building a sustainable, full-time income.

It’s tempting to think about starting a pet care business as a “side gig.” But while apps like Rover or Wag! offer quick access to dog walking or sitting jobs, they rarely provide the income or flexibility of owning your own business.

Here’s how full-time business ownership compares:

Side Hustle

A side hustle typically means offering your services through a third-party platform or taking on occasional clients in your spare time. You might walk dogs after work, pet sit on weekends, or scoop a few yards here and there.

While these options may provide extra spending money or a creative outlet, they usually come with limitations: your time is capped, your customer base is owned by someone else (like an app), and your ability to grow is minimal.

• Income: Limited & unpredictable
• Control: Platform-owned
• Support: Minimal
• Long-Term Growth Opportunities: Low
• Flexibility: Limited by your schedule

Full-Time Business

Running a full-time pet business means taking ownership of your future. You’re building a brand, developing client relationships, and creating something scalable, not just trading hours for dollars.

Full-time pet businesses, like those supported by franchising with DoodyCalls, offer the infrastructure and support you need to grow beyond a solo operation. You can bring on employees, service more homes and properties, and build a business that works for you.

• Income: Scalable & recurring
• Control: You own the business
• Support: Franchising can offer training, marketing, and established systems
• Long-Term Growth Opportunities: High
• Flexibility: You control your schedule

Many people start with a side hustle mindset, but those who want to replace their full-time income (and build something with long-term potential) quickly realize that launching a professional business gives them far more control, freedom, and financial opportunity.

Franchise owners with DoodyCalls chose this path because they wanted ownership, not just another app-based gig.

What does it take to start your own pooper scooper business? Find out more > 

Franchise vs. Independent: Which Pet Business Model Works Best?

Once you’ve decided to pursue a pet business, the next big question is: Should you go at it alone or invest in a franchise? It’s important to understand the difference between starting alone and franchising.

Independent Business

Starting an independent business gives you full creative control. You choose your business name, map out a business plan, develop your own brand, figure out pricing, build a website, and handle every operational detail.

That freedom can be appealing, but it also comes with a steep learning curve. Without guidance, it’s easy to spend more time and money trying to “figure it out” than actually building your business.

• Brand Recognition: You build it from scratch
• Training: Self-guided or third-party
• Marketing: DIY or third-party
• Startup Process: Figure it out yourself
• Support System: Solo

Franchise Business Opportunity

Franchising can offer a head start. With DoodyCalls, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. You get access to a tested business model, recognizable branding, and comprehensive support, including training, marketing materials, and expert coaching. You also gain entry into a network of franchise owners who’ve walked the same path and can share their advice.

• Brand Recognition: Established and trusted
• Training: Included from the start for onboarding and growing your business
• Marketing: Professional tools, resources, and a supportive team
• Startup Process: Guided onboarding
• Support System: Franchise business coaches and a network of fellow franchise owners

While independent business owners often spend months (or years) learning through trial and error, franchisees benefit from established systems, faster startup timelines, and built-in resources that make the journey less overwhelming.

If you’re new to entrepreneurship, or simply want to grow with confidence, franchising offers the structure and support many first-time business owners need to thrive.

Looking for the best franchise for beginners? Explore DoodyCalls > 

Why Pooper Scooper Services Deserve More Attention

Most people are aware of dog training businesses, doggy daycares, pet boarding businesses, and dog walkers. These markets could be oversaturated if you have a lot of pet sitters, kennels, or mobile grooming businesses in your area.

Let’s talk about what might be the most underrated opportunity in the pet care industry: pet waste removal.

Here’s why this service is growing fast in the pet market:

• Essential, not optional: Pet waste is messy, smelly, and attracts pests.
• Repeat service: Homeowners want weekly, reliable cleanup – which means recurring revenue.
• Low equipment needs: A vehicle, branded uniform, and cleaning tools are often enough to start.
• Scalable: With routes and recurring customers, you can hire and expand without losing quality.

And when you franchise with a company like DoodyCalls, you get training, tools, and support to grow your own pet cleanup empire.

DoodyCalls goes beyond scooping poop. Discover how franchise owners have access to multiple revenue opportunities > 

What to Expect When Franchising with DoodyCalls

Franchising with DoodyCalls is designed to help people from all backgrounds start and grow a business, even if they’ve never owned one before.

Here’s how it works:

Initial Training: “Poop School”

You’ll learn everything from operations and customer service to scooping poop.

Onboarding Support

A dedicated team helps you set up your systems and market your business to local pet owners.

Marketing & Branding Tools

From social media templates and yard signs to SEO-friendly websites and email campaigns – you’re covered.

Ongoing Coaching

Franchise Business Coaches provide guidance on reaching your goals and overcoming challenges.

Franchise Community

Connect with other franchise owners across the U.S. to share ideas, tips, and encouragement.

DoodyCalls is turning 25 in 2025! Learn more about the experience and support DoodyCalls provides for our franchise owners > 

Growing Beyond a One-Person Operation

Unlike many pet business ideas that limit growth to your personal capacity, pooper scooper businesses are designed for expansion.

DoodyCalls gives you the support to:

• Hire and manage a team
• Expand your territory
• Increase efficiency
• Add commercial contracts for HOAs, apartments, and parks

You’re not just building a job – you’re building an asset.

Where can you grow your pet business idea? Discover available territories with DoodyCalls > 

Final Thoughts: Is a Pet Business Right for You?

If you’re passionate about pets, eager to make a difference in your community, and want to build a business that gives you freedom and income, a pet business could be the right path.

And if you’re looking for an affordable, essential, and scalable opportunity – a pooper scooper business may be your best-kept secret.

Ready to Learn More?

Franchising with DoodyCalls gives you the systems, training, and support you need to launch a business in the growing pet care industry.

Whether you’re new to business ownership or just looking for a fresh start, DoodyCalls can help you turn your vision into a real, reliable business.

Contact our team today to learn more about franchising with DoodyCalls!