SEO for pet businesses

Last updated 12 October 2026 · By the XKey team

What do pet owners search for?

"Dog groomer near me", "dog walker Lytham", "cat sitter Blackpool", "dog boarding Preston", "puppy training classes", "mobile dog grooming", plus breed-specific searches like "cockapoo grooming". Searches spike before holidays for boarding and sitting.

How do I win local pet searches?

• Choose the exact category in your Google Business Profile – pet groomer, dog walker, pet sitter, kennel, dog trainer – and list every service with a price.
• Mobile groomers, walkers and sitters should use a service area, not a home address.
• Post photos of happy dogs after grooms or walks (owners usually love to share). They're your best advert.
• Ask every customer for a review – see how to get more Google reviews.

What should a pet business website show?

• Prices by service and dog size or breed, so owners know where they stand.
• Trust details: insurance, DBS checks, pet first aid training, grooming or training qualifications, and the licence number if you run boarding, home boarding or day care (these need a council animal activity licence in England).
• A page per service – full groom, puppy groom, hand stripping, group walks, solo walks, home boarding – explaining what's included and how long it takes.
• Breed pages for the breeds you groom most, with how you groom them and photos, if you have real experience to share.
• How booking works, cancellation rules, and what owners need to bring.

Do reviews and photos really help?

For pet businesses they're often the deciding factor. Owners read reviews for signs that pets are treated gently and come home happy. Photos of real pets you've cared for, posted regularly, show you're active and loved. Use your own photos, not stock images – see image SEO for keeping them light.

Which links help pet businesses?

Local vets, pet shops and rescues you work with, breed clubs, dog-friendly cafés and pubs, local Facebook groups' recommendation pages and community sites. Many will link to a trusted local groomer or walker if you ask.

Frequently asked questions

Do dog walkers need a website?

A simple one helps: your areas, prices, insurance and reviews. Combined with a Business Profile it makes you easy to find and trust.

Should I show prices for grooming?

Yes, at least 'from' prices by size or breed. Owners compare before calling, and price pages match what they search.

Do I need a licence to mention on my site?

In England, boarding, home boarding and dog day care need an animal activity licence from the council. Showing your licence number and star rating builds trust.