top of page

The Art of Balancing Work on vs. Work in Your Dog Training Business: Comparison Chart


Hey there, if you're interested in starting your own dog training business, or you're already building one, you're probably aware that there's a lot more to it than just working with dogs. As much as we all love spending time with our furry friends, the success of a dog training business depends on much more than just playing fetch and teaching basic commands.


It's essential to understand the concept of "working on" vs. "working in" your business, and how finding the right balance between the two can make all the difference in achieving your goals. In this article, we're going to show you some comparisons in the biggest areas of your business.



So, whether you're just starting or you've been in the game for a while, let's dive in!


Business Planning

Working On

Working In

1. Developing a plan to guide your long-term goals,

1. Conducting follow-up sessions with clients,

2. Keeping up-to-date with industry trends and best practices,

2. Providing consultations to new clients,

3. Analyzing your business's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT analysis),

3. Monitoring client feedback and reviews,

4. Researching emerging trends and conducting market research

4. Performing demonstrations at local pet events or stores


Financial Management

Working On

Working In

1. Analyzing financial statements,

1. Managing the booking and scheduling of training sessions with clients,

2. Creating and executing a sales strategy to increase revenue,

2. Attending to daily administrative tasks of running a business,

3. Creating and analyzing financial reports to identify areas for improvement and growth opportunities,

3. Developing a program to offer discounts or incentives for repeat clients,

4. Developing a pricing strategy to maximize profits while remaining competitive,

4. Establishing a pricing structure that incentivizes clients to book multiple sessions or classes

5. Evaluating the effectiveness of different marketing strategies and investments,

6. Developing a cash flow projection to manage expenses and revenue,

7. Creating a billing and payment system,

8. Establishing a line of credit or business credit card for unforeseen expenses,

9. Establishing a retirement plan or investment strategy for the business


Marketing

Working On

Working In

1. Developing a plan to attract new clients,

​1. Providing consultations to new clients,

2. Refining your brand identity, including your logo, website, and social media presence,

2. Conducting follow-up sessions with clients,

3. Developing a content marketing strategy,

3. Monitoring client feedback and reviews,

4. Implementing a referral program to incentivize existing clients to refer new clients,

4. Performing demonstrations at local pet events or stores,

5. Using social media advertising and search engine optimization (SEO) to reach new clients,

5. Developing and implementing a referral program to incentivize existing clients to refer new clients

6. Partnering with complementary pet businesses, such as pet stores or veterinary clinics,

7. Researching gaps in the dog training market and opportunities for growth,

8. Implementing a customer relationship management system


Sales Strategy

Working On

Working In

1. Creating and executing a strategy to increase revenue,

​1. Conducting follow-up sessions with clients,

2. Implementing a referral program to incentivize existing clients to refer new clients,

2. Providing consultations to new clients,

3. Developing a pricing strategy to maximize profits while remaining competitive,

3. Monitoring client feedback and reviews,

4. Analyzing financial reports to identify areas for improvement and growth opportunities

4. Performing demonstrations at local pet events or stores

Wrap Up


As a canine training business owner, it's important to find a balance between working on your business and working in your business. By taking the time to focus on long-term planning and strategy, you can position your business for sustainable growth and success. And by paying attention to the day-to-day operations of your business, you can provide the best possible service to your clients and ensure their satisfaction.

59 views
bottom of page