The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - Dog Walking

Dog walking is one of the most flexible and rewarding side hustles in New Zealand. Whether you’re in bustling Auckland, scenic Wellington, or friendly Christchurch, this guide offers practical, Kiwi-flavoured tips to help dog walking specialists grow their local client base without quitting their day job.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Tap Into Local Dog Owner Needs

New Zealanders love their dogs and many need reliable walkers who offer more personalised care than busy kennels or dog daycare centres.

Offering tailored walks for elderly dogs, puppies, or high-energy breeds fills specific community needs in suburbs like Mount Maunganui or Grey Lynn.

Weirdly enough, some dog owners prefer short mid-day walks or drop-in visits rather than long daily sessions-flexibility wins clients.

2. Get Started on Yada for No-Fee Jobs

Yada is a fast-growing Kiwi platform for dog walkers to connect with local clients-no lead or success fees mean better prices for you and your clients.

The rating system rewards great service with better job matches, increasing your bookings as your reputation grows.

Its mobile-friendly interface lets you manage bookings and client chats from anywhere, perfect for busy Kiwis balancing full-time work.

3. Offer Flexible and Convenient Services

Busy dog owners appreciate early morning, evening or weekend walking slots that fit around their schedules.

For example, a dog walker in Lower Hutt who opened weekend slots quickly attracted city workers who struggle to walk their dogs during the week.

Consider alternative services like pop-in play visits or multi-dog walks to maximize your time.

4. List on Popular NZ Pet Service Directories

Besides Yada, TradeMe Services, Localist, and Facebook groups are hotspots for locals searching for trustworthy dog walkers.

These platforms allow you to showcase photos, service details, and client reviews, helping build trust from the get-go.

Taking 20-30 minutes to list yourself can drive steady enquiries over time.

5. Build Trust with Client Testimonials

Ask happy dog owners for reviews and encourage before/after walk updates or photos you can share (with permission).

For example, a Christchurch walker grew her client base after sharing heartfelt client stories on social media and Yada profiles.

Testimonials help future clients feel confident handing over their dog to you.

6. Partner with Vets and Pet Businesses

Networking with local veterinarians, groomers, and pet stores can open doors to referrals and joint promotions.

A Tauranga walker established a referral deal with a local pet shop, bringing steady business during peak seasons.

Such partnerships attract clients through trusted local sources without spending much on advertising.

7. Manage Bookings and Communication Smoothly

Yada’s internal chat and schedule tools streamline client communications and help avoid double bookings or mix-ups.

Clear communication about prices, meeting points, and special dog needs builds confidence and prevents frustration.

Setting clear boundaries about your availability safeguards your work-life balance.

8. Create a Simple, Professional Online Presence

A single-page website or Facebook business page outlining your dog walking services, areas served, and testimonials builds professionalism.

Since most Kiwis browse on mobile, make sure your site or page loads quickly and displays well on phones.

Include contact info, pricing, and a friendly photo to make your service approachable.

9. Share Useful Dog Care Tips Regularly

Posting quick tips on leash training, dog nutrition, or seasonal care keeps your audience engaged and positions you as a knowledgeable local expert.

Sharing photos of happy dogs after walks or community dog events adds a personal touch and grows your online presence.

People love genuine, helpful content rather than pushy sales messages.

10. Stay Safe and Insured

Make sure you have the right insurance for dog walking to protect yourself and the dogs you care for.

Many local insurance providers offer policies tailored for small pet businesses and side hustlers.

Openly sharing your safety and hygiene practices reassures clients, especially when handling dogs with special needs.