5 ways to Keep and Retain Clients for Dog Trainers

By Brianna Dick

Do you want the 5 best ways to keep and retain clients for your dog trainer business? Building lasting relationships with clients is the cornerstone of success in the pet industry. Beyond providing exceptional services, retaining customers requires thoughtful strategies that prioritize their needs and preferences. Aka, we gotta make em' feel special. In this guide, we explore effective methods to foster loyalty among pet owners, ensuring they become long-term advocates for your business = free advertising.

1. Establishing Personal Connections: Effective Communication and Follow-ups

• The foundation of client loyalty lies in genuine communication. Respond promptly to inquiries, listen attentively to concerns, and show sincere interest in their success

• Regular follow-up messages or calls after appointments demonstrate your dedication to their pet's well-being. A simple check-in can go a long way in building trust and loyalty.

• Send tailored and HELPFUL follow-up resources that are bite sized, short and sweet, easy to do homework pieces.

2. Creating Loyalty Programs and Referral Incentives

• Loyalty programs are a powerful tool in keeping clients engaged. Consider offering discounts or rewards for repeat bookings or referrals.

• Referral incentives, such as a complimentary training session or grooming service, can encourage existing clients to spread the word about your exceptional services but only offer this to clients who are already going above and beyond and respect your time.

• You should also have services that incentivize clients sticking with you. If you offer board & trains, can you offer discounted boarding for previous b&t clients. For your in-home training clients, can you create a 1 day a week day care or day training scenario?

3. Providing Valuable Education Through Workshops and Newsletters

• Hosting educational workshops or seminars on pet care, behavior training, or health topics adds significant value to your services. It not only keeps people and your email list thinking about you but this means people are more likely to refer you for longer because they're engaging with you and your business longer

• Regular newsletters packed with informative articles, training tips, and updates about your business keep clients informed and engaged.

• Guidebooks and blogposts are also a great example of how to potentially capture a new client who is unsure if the trainer they found is an expert and they can trust them. Show you know stuff!

4. Tailoring Training Programs to Individual Pet Needs

• Recognize that each dog is unique, and their training should reflect that. Take the time to understand their personality, behavior issues, and learning style. Unsure of how to do this one-on-one? Head to my "Dog Trainer's Private Lessons Masterclass" to learn more on how to talk with clients and make them love you.

• Customized training sessions that address specific goals or concerns of pet owners create a personalized experience that resonates deeply. In my opinion, if you offer behavior modification there should be no cookie cutter foundation of how you approach each client and dog. The more adaptable you are, the more comfortable and confident your client feels like they're receiving tailored exercises.

5. Gathering Feedback for Continuous Improvement

• Feedback is a valuable asset for business growth. Encourage clients to share their thoughts through surveys, reviews, or direct conversations.

• Use feedback to identify areas of improvement and implement changes. Clients appreciate when their input leads to positive enhancements in your services.

• You can sound out an anonymous email blast/poll or create one online HERE

The dog industry is only getting more competitive and cultivating client loyalty can set you apart. These differences are what make or break small business success or failure. By prioritizing effective communication, offering valuable incentives, providing educational resources, tailoring services to individual pets, and listening attentively to feedback, you can create a devoted client base that not only returns but also recommends your services to others. Consistency in these strategies will pave the way for sustained success in your pet business.

UNSURE ABOUT HOW TO TALK WITH CLIENTS IN A WAY THAT MAKES THEM SIGN UP MORE?

LET ME ANSWER ALL YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR DOG BUSINESS.

Brianna Dick

Small Business Consultant