Dog Wash Side Hustle Run Down:
Washing dogs can be an easy way to make cash! Some owners struggle to find the time or don’t enjoy washing their four-legged friend and are more than happy to have someone else do the washing business for them.
Start up costs can be low and you don’t need any special knowledge to get started unless you want to be using some real grooming techniques (plus a little about dogs in general is helpful!). There are short courses you can do to get extra knowledge around grooming different breeds (courses from only $25 a week!) or just offer a simple, shampoo, wash and dry.
If you love animals, this could be a fantastic side hustle to make some extra money!
Pros and Cons of a dog wash business
PROS
- You don’t need any qualifications or special knowledge, however love for dogs is a plus and knowing general dog care is important
- You can take on as many or as few dogs as you like – very flexible!
- This side hustle offers the likelihood of ongoing and repeat business as dogs need washing regularly
- There will always be work out there as dogs will always need washing!
CONS
- Not all pets like being washed! You need to know how to deal with animals that may not be super happy getting washed and how to calm them down
- Can be smelly and dirty work!
Effort Required To Start A Dog Wash Side Hustle
To get started: Minimal-Moderate
There is little effort required to get started, once you have some basic tools and products to wash the dogs, you will need to get some clients by telling people you know, and also posting out to Facebook or delivering flyers in letterboxes. If you’re already familiar with washing your own dogs then this may be easy- otherwise you might want to do a few practice runs on family and friend’s pets first to see if it’s for you!
Ongoing: Minimal
You can choose how much effort you put into sourcing new jobs based on how much you want to work, however it’s a great side hustle as many people will book you in on a regular basis and provide you with ongoing work. Once you have a steady client base you will just need to keep topping up your washing equipment as required.
Dog Wash Side Hustle Earning Potential
This will depend on how much you charge per job, however think about an hourly rate you will charge that will cover your time and cost of products. For example you may charge somewhere between $20-$50 for small dogs and more for larger ones or ones that require more time, effort and care for their coats.
You can increase earning potential by pairing the washing service with others such as dog walking, backyard poo clean up, or pet sitting!
Cost Required To Start
Depending on the quality of products and range of brushes you can get started for under $200 with some products easily sourced from your local pet store.
Dog Shampoo; Dog Conditioner; Scented Spray; Combs:
Dog hair dryer; Towels.
How Do I Start My Own Dog Washing Business?
– Buy a range of products to get you started! A de-shedding brush, shampoo, scent spray and an ear band if you will be drying the dogs too! A dog hair dryer will come in handy as it means you can send the pup back smelling clean but feeling dry and looking amazing too!
Hot Tip:
It may be a good idea to have some shampoo for pets with sensitive skin issues on hand.