If you’re a dog trainer looking to grow your business, social media can be a game-changer. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, having a strong online presence helps attract more clients and establish you as an expert in the field.
In fact, research from Forbes shows that 24% of consumers use social media to find answers to their questions, and for Gen Z, that number jumps to 46%, making social platforms their go-to search engine. That means potential clients are actively looking for dog trainers like you!
The good news? You don’t need to be a marketing expert to stand out. With a few simple yet effective strategies, you can build your online presence and connect with more dog owners in need of your services.
Digital Marketing Made Simple
Find the perfect platform for you
Are you team Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or YouTube? Each social media platform has a personality of its own and it is important to hone in on the one that feels more natural to you. Choosing a platform that aligns with your personal enjoyment is the first step to making quality content for your dog training business. If you enjoy using it, you’ll be more likely to stay consistent!
Here’s a quick breakdown of popular platforms for dog trainers:
Instagram & TikTok – Perfect for bite-sized training tips, client success stories, and engaging video content.
Facebook – Great for joining local groups, running ads, and building a community around your services.
YouTube – Ideal for long-form tutorials and deep dives into dog training techniques.
Optimize your online profile
- Set up your free Google profile and add your social platforms of choice
- Add an inviting profile picture & cover with YOU in it.
- Make your website or contact information easy to find
- Add location and expertise in your profile description (e.g. obedience, agility, nose work, etc)
Share your expertise
Once you’ve chosen a social platform, it’s time to create content that educates and engages dog owners. The key to success? Provide value!
By sharing practical tips and insights, you position yourself as a trusted expert while giving potential clients a taste of what working with you would be like.
Content ideas to spotlight your expertise include:
- Tips for how to leash train a dog.
- Favorite training treat round-up
- Share things to avoid when training a new puppy
Encourage engagement by asking questions like, “What’s your biggest struggle with training your dog?” This gets potential clients involved and makes your page more interactive!
Make local connections
Sharing valuable content is great—but if local dog owners aren’t seeing it, you’re missing out on potential clients. Here’s how to make sure your content reaches people in your area:
Use location-based hashtags: Instead of just using #dogtraining, add your city or neighborhood (e.g., #RichmondDogTrainer or #NYCDogTraining).
Tag your location: Whether posting a video or a client testimonial, always add your business location to the post to increase local visibility.
Join local Facebook groups: Many communities have groups dedicated to pet owners. Engaging in these spaces can lead to referrals and direct messages from potential clients.
Partner with pet businesses: Build relationships with local pet stores, groomers, shelters, and rescues to give back to the community while creating opportunities for cross-promotion.
Marketing your dog training business on social media doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing the right platform, sharing valuable content, and making local connections, you’ll be well on your way to attracting more clients and growing your business.