I’m a dog trainer based in Australia, so prices in AUD. I come with many years experience and multiple qualifications, and I am always advancing my knowledge with further education.

I’m also broke af, dont come from a well of background, and neither does my husband. Cost of living is rising, we rent, fuel prices are nuts, so I’m obviously trying to price so that I can pay myself a living wage on limited resources.

Anyway I posted an ad on Facebook tonight and the first feedback I got was negative about the price. $45/hour dog walking, or 4 for $140. Is this an unreasonable price?

Im sure its high-end pricing but i believe i offer a very high quality service. I am registered, insured, and have to maintain my car as well. It is a family car so I’m not able to claim it 100% for the business, so I have to maintain it out of what I pay myself. The cost also includes treats, waste disposal, and travel to/from (as well as if I travelled to collect a few dogs to walk together).

I I’m being a complete knob I appreciate honest constructive feedback, but please be nice. I have very limited business education and access to guidance.

  • Nuocho@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    That definitely isn’t too much. If someone is doing it for cheaper they are probably doing something illegal like not paying taxes.

    If it is too expensive and you don’t get any clients then it means there is no market for professional dog walkers. Your rate for repeating customers is 35AUD/h. That’s $22 USD/h right? I doubt you can buy any other professionals time in Australia for that cheap. Can you?

    However having people complain about your prices is not an issue. Any service you can provide is always going to be too expensive for some because buying services is a luxury. Very few people can afford to get their apartments and houses cleaned by maids. Doesn’t matter. There are enough well doing people to buy cleaning services. Find where the people live who can afford to get their dogs walked and target your sales in those areas. The neighborhood where all the rich people live in your area is probably a good start.