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How to Communicate Price Rises with Your Dog Walking Clients


How to Communicate Price Rises with Your Dog Walking Clients


Raising your prices is a normal and necessary part of running a sustainable dog walking business, but that doesn’t make the conversation any easier. Many walkers worry about upsetting clients or losing bookings—but the truth is, most clients understand that costs increase and professionals adjust their fees accordingly. The key is communicating the change clearly, confidently, and with plenty of notice.


Here’s how to approach price rises in a way that protects your business while maintaining positive relationships with the people (and dogs!) you work with.


1. Give Plenty of Notice


A minimum of 30 days’ notice is standard, though many dog pros offer 6–8 weeks. This gives clients time to adjust their budgets, reconsider schedules, or switch to a different plan if needed. I generally advertise my new prices on line before I implement them to current clients, so new clients get informed of the new prices.


Advance notice also shows respect—it demonstrates that you value your clients and don’t want to spring financial surprises on them.


2. Be Clear and Transparent


Clients don’t need a detailed breakdown of your business costs, but a brief explanation helps them understand the reasoning behind the rise. Common, relatable reasons include:


  • Increased fuel costs

  • Rising insurance or licensing fees

  • Higher operating costs (equipment, training, admin tools)

  • Expanding or improving services

  • Ensuring your business remains sustainable


Keep the tone factual and professional, not apologetic.


3. Communicate With Confidence (Not Guilt)


Many dog walkers feel awkward raising prices and fall into apologising or over-explaining.


Avoid phrases like:


  • “I hope you don’t mind…”

  • “I really didn’t want to do this…”

  • “I’m so sorry but…”


You’re a professional offering a valuable service—your pricing should reflect that. Communicate the change with confidence and clarity. Confident messages reassure clients that you know your worth.


4. Highlight the Value You Provide


Clients are far more comfortable with price rises when they understand the value they’re receiving. You might highlight:


  • Your professional qualifications or CPD

  • Reliability and consistency

  • Personalised care for their dog

  • Enrichment, training elements, or safe social groupings

  • Good communication, updates, and reports

  • Excellent reputation and trustworthiness


This isn’t about justifying every penny—it’s about reinforcing the high standard of your service.


5. Keep the Message Simple and Easy to Understand


Avoid complicated structures or multiple price options in the announcement. Provide:


  • The new price

  • The date it begins

  • Any changes to packages or terms

  • A link to updated T&Cs


Clear communication reduces confusion and the need for follow-up questions.


6. Communicate Privately, Not Publicly


Announce price changes directly to each client—usually by email or message. Avoid posting them first on social media, which can come across as impersonal.


This keeps the conversation professional and allows clients to ask questions privately.


7. Expect (and Prepare For) a Range of Reactions


Most clients will respond with understanding, but a few may:


  • Ask for clarification

  • Request reduced frequency

  • Leave the service entirely


Prepare for this mentally. It’s normal. Letting go of clients who no longer fit your business model is part of growth—not a personal failure.


High-quality clients value the service you provide and will stay.


8. Review Your Prices Regularly


Instead of one big rise every few years, consider small, predictable adjustments reviewed annually. This normalises the process and avoids large jumps that can startle clients.

Annual reviews also help your business keep pace with inflation and rising costs.


A Final Thought


Raising your prices isn’t about being greedy—it’s about keeping your business healthy, sustainable, and able to continue delivering the high-quality care your clients expect. With a clear, confident approach and plenty of notice, you can communicate price rises in a way that feels fair, professional, and respectful.


See The Dog House Resources for templates you can use.





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About Tori Lynn C. & The Dog House


Welcome to The Dog House — my cosy corner of the TLC Canine Crusaders Business Hub. I’m Tori Lynn C., the founder of TLC Dog Walking Limited, mentor to professional dog walkers, and lifelong advocate for dogs and the people who care for them. With over 17 years of hands-on experience in the industry, my mission is to guide you through the realities of running a successful, sustainable dog walking business — from client care and safety to wellbeing, confidence, and professional growth.


The Dog House is where I share the honest, behind-the-scenes conversations we all need: the tricky moments, the funny bits, the business lessons, and the mindset work that keeps us thriving rather than merely surviving. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, you’ll always find support, guidance, and a friendly nudge forward here.


You’re never alone in this journey — you’re part of a community of canine crusaders.






 
 
 

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