Online pet supplies shop

Pet owners across the UK who want a specific product, subscription-style repeat orders or something not found in supermarkets.

You sell products at a mark-up, from your own stock or via supplier dispatch. Repeat orders for food and treats, plus bundles and gift boxes, raise the average order.

• Setting up an online shop
• Writing clear product descriptions
• Customer service by email or chat
• Basic stock and order handling

• Consumer rules on distance selling, returns and clear pricing, so check the current guidance
• Rules for selling pet food and any supplements, and clear labelling, so check with your local council or Trading Standards
• Public liability and product liability insurance
• Postage costs and bulky items like litter and large food bags, which can eat into margins
• Do not sell live animals online without checking the licensing rules first

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £5,000, depending on your setup. These are estimates. Your costs will vary with how much stock you buy and the website or marketplace you choose.

Monthly revenue is typically around £600 to £3,000, depending on your niche, prices and order volumes. These are estimates. Postage on bulky items like litter and large food bags can eat into margins. Plan for at least 8 hours a week.

Check current guidance on distance selling, returns and clear pricing. Check rules for selling pet food and supplements, and labelling, with your local council or Trading Standards. Check public liability and product liability insurance, and the licensing rules before selling any live animals.