Designing Your Dream Dog Training Schedule: Finding Balance and Success on Your Terms

When I started my journey as a dog trainer, it seemed like everyone in the industry worked long hours on weekends and evenings to accommodate their clients. Mentors and peers assured me that it was just the way things were and that working during these non-traditional hours was necessary to attract clients. After all, dog training classes are often held on weeknights and weekends to accommodate more people. But as I ventured into building my own business, I realized that I had the power to shape it according to my preferences. I didn't have to follow the same path as everyone else. This led me to question the notion of whether after-hours work was truly compulsory for success in this field.

Before I made the decision to focus solely on private lessons and online coaching, I experimented with running Saturday morning group classes for a few years. Initially, I succumbed to the belief that offering group classes was an essential part of being a dog trainer. However, I soon discovered that my true passion lay in working more intimately with individual clients. While group classes can be enjoyable and popular, they may not necessarily align with your personal preferences and goals. It's crucial to remember that you have the freedom to decide the structure of your business based on what brings you fulfilment.

One key aspect of designing your dream schedule is attracting your ideal clients. Rather than booking anyone with a dog, it's important to define the type of client you want to work with. By doing so, you'll not only find more cooperative and enjoyable clients but also those who fit seamlessly into your schedule. Understanding the age range, location, dog-related challenges, and personality types that resonate with you can help you attract the perfect clients. If you're unfamiliar with the concept of attracting your ideal client, I invite you to join my free workshop, where you can learn valuable strategies to attract the clients you love and increase your income.

While working more hours might seem like a logical path to accommodate more clients and increase income, it's essential to prioritize quality over quantity. Just because the majority of trainers operate in a certain way doesn't mean you have to conform to their practices. If you find yourself working long hours, feeling financially strained, and constantly exhausted, it's a clear sign that something needs to change. Remember, your business should provide you with a sense of fulfilment and work-life balance. Don't be afraid to reassess and redesign your operations to align with your personal goals and well-being.

As a dog trainer, you have the opportunity to create a business that aligns with your vision and desired lifestyle. By challenging traditional beliefs and expectations, you can shape your schedule to suit your needs and preferences. Whether it means offering private lessons, exploring alternative group class formats, or being selective with clients, the key is to prioritize your own happiness and satisfaction. Remember, success is not solely measured by the number of clients you see or the hours you work but by the quality of your work and the fulfilment it brings. Embrace the power to create the dog training business of your dreams and experience the joy of a harmonious work-life balance.

Ready to take the next step in creating your ideal dog training business? Join our free online training to learn valuable strategies and techniques that will help you achieve your goals.

Register now and embark on the journey to a fulfilling and successful career as a dog trainer.