Start an online pet supplies shop

Pet owners who want a specific product or a trusted small seller, including local customers who like free delivery or pickup.

You earn the margin between wholesale cost and retail price. Subscriptions for treats or repeat food orders can bring steady monthly sales.

• Online selling and basic marketing
• Photography and product descriptions
• Organizing stock and shipping
• Customer service

• Sales tax rules for online sales, check your state's requirements
• Home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules if you store stock at home
• Pet food and treats may have labeling and state rules, ask your supplier and state agriculture department
• General liability and product liability insurance
• Shipping costs and returns can eat into margins, test your prices before launching

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your stock, website setup and how much you invest in photos and marketing. Test your prices, including shipping and returns, before launching so your margins hold up.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on your niche, product range and how many customers you reach. Revenue is not profit, so factor in product costs, shipping and returns when you plan.

Check your state's sales tax requirements for online sales, and whether you need a home occupation permit or must follow HOA or lease rules if you store stock at home. Ask your supplier and state agriculture department about pet food and treat labeling.