Dogs are not only great companions, but awfully cute.   So have you ever considered working in a job where you can see cute dogs like me everyday? Here is a short list of dog-related jobs and additional considerations to think about before making the leap.

Dog walker, one of the many career choices for people interested in spending a little more time with dogs.

1. Doggy Day Care

How about spending all day with energetic and healthy dogs of all different breeds?  Consider working in a boarding kennel or doggie day care center.  Day care workers supervise playtime for dogs that stay for the day, and occasionally overnight.

Why it may not be for you:

• Dog bites and dog fights are a daily occurrence.
• It’s messy and stinky, very hard work, and long hours (even 24-hours) especially at the entry level.
• Can be a hard market to break in if other established day cares exist.

2. Dog Grooming

If you love the idea of making dogs look their best, a dog groomer might be the job for you. Professional dog groomers are the cosmetologists of the canine world.  As an assistant, you can learn the basics of grooming, or attend dog grooming school and even go on to achieve certification and membership with the National Dog Groomers Association.

Why it may not be for you:

• Dogs will often come in stinky and dirty.
• Certain dogs are nervous or anxious of being cut, primped and handled, which can make it very difficult to groom them.
• Risk of injury from dog bites or scratches.

3. Dog Sitting and Dog Walking

If you enjoy watching over dogs and being in business for yourself, then dog sitting or dog walking might be the perfect gig.  Dog sitters go to homes to care for dogs while their owners are out of town. Duties include feeding, walking, medicating, playing and cleaning up after dogs.  Dog walkers are especially common in large cities, where apartment dogs need more exercise than their owners have time for.

Why it may not be for you:

• If  you are entering the jurisdiction of other dog walkers and dog sitters with loyal customers, it may be difficult to build your own book of business.
• Income can be unpredictable, especially at first.
• One must be willing to keep a very flexible schedule and work long hours based on client’s schedule » Read more: 9 to 5 with Dogs