Forget layoffs and coding stress: This techie earns nearly Rs 6 lakh a month and hits 35,000 steps daily by just walking dogs

A software engineer in New York City has found an unusual way to build a second income stream, by walking dogs in some of Manhattan’s busiest neighbourhoods. Twenty-eight-year-old Coby Goodhart now earns more than $6,000 (around Rs 5.72 lakh) every month through his premium pet-care venture, even while continuing his full-time tech job. What began as a personal love for pets has quickly grown into a six-figure side business in just over a year.

Started As A Passion Project In New York

Goodhart launched Goodhart Dog Co. in 2025, two years after shifting to New York City. According to People, he designed the business around his office schedule so he could manage both careers at the same time.

“Goodhart Dog Co. is something I've built completely around that schedule," said Goodhart, adding that he does walks in the mornings, on his lunch breaks, evenings and weekends.

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"I also have a walker I've brought on and trained, and I pay her during hours when I'm at my day job. The goal is to grow it to the point where it becomes my full-time focus."

His days begin early with dog walks before office hours. During lunchtime, he continues meeting clients while another trained walker takes care of midday appointments. Together, they handle between 10 and 20 dogs daily across Lower Manhattan.

Weekends Packed With Walks And Training Sessions

The techie said weekends are often busier than weekdays because of training sessions and client meetings.

"Weekends are fuller, with walks, training sessions and client check-ins. It's a lot, but I genuinely love it," said Goodhart.

The business has expanded mainly through recommendations from existing customers and visibility on social media platforms. Goodhart said networking in apartment buildings also helped him grow quickly.

“When you do great work in a small area, people talk. I also hand out business cards on walks and to doormen. They know everyone in the building and are incredibly well-connected," said Goodhart.

Why Clients Pay Premium Rates

Goodhart positions his service as a luxury offering rather than a regular dog-walking business. He believes busy professionals in New York are willing to spend more for reliable pet care.

"The luxury positioning helps too, I'm not trying to be everything to everyone,” Goodhart added.

Explaining the pricing model, he said every booking depends on several factors, including the dog’s size, behaviour and the client’s schedule.

“Pricing varies by client; factors like location, dog size, behaviour, and schedule all play into it. It's a luxury service, so I price accordingly and make sure every client feels that in the experience,” Goodhart said.