Puppy and Dog Group Classes

New puppy owners and owners wanting structure, socialization and practice around other dogs.

A fee per student for each course, usually 4 to 8 weeks. Add-ons include drop-in practice nights, workshops and private follow-up lessons.

• Teaching and managing a group of people and dogs
• Understanding of dog behaviour and safe socialization
• Organizing bookings, schedules and payments

• Commercial general liability insurance, and the venue may require its own proof of cover
• Require proof of vaccinations for all dogs in class and have a clear waiver
• Check municipal rules on running a business and on dogs in public or rented spaces
• Space rental is a fixed cost, so cancelled or low-enrolment classes cut into earnings
• Winter and holiday periods can reduce enrolment

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on equipment, insurance and the space you rent. Rental is a fixed cost, so low enrolment or cancelled classes can cut into earnings.

Things to check: commercial general liability insurance, since the venue may want its own proof of cover; proof of vaccinations for every dog and a clear waiver; and municipal rules on running a business and on dogs in public or rented spaces.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $5,000, depending on class size, your pricing and how many courses you run. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week. Winter and holidays may reduce enrolment.