**Engineer Turns Passion for Dogs into Thriving Business in Lower Manhattan**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Man-walking-dogs-051626-2-647b25a211a74950ac94e19d6e2bbbb7.jpg)

In an inspiring tale of dedication and ingenuity, Coby Goodhart has managed to blend his engineering career with a successful dog-walking venture, the Goodhart Dog Co. Operating in the bustling Lower Manhattan area, Goodhart claims his side business generates an impressive annual income of six figures.

Goodhart’s lifelong affinity for dogs led him to establish his own dog walking enterprise shortly after relocating to New York City in 2023. With a pressing desire to embody his passion, he officially launched Goodhart Dog Co. in 2025, bringing together his love for animals and the fast-paced urban environment he now calls home.
Balancing his full-time job as an engineer with his dog-walking commitments has been no small feat for the 28-year-old. “I’ve built Goodhart Dog Co. around my work schedule,” he explained. Goodhart has tailored his dog walking activities to fit into his busy life, often taking morning walks before his engineering duties start, utilizing his lunch break for additional walks, then heading back out in the evenings and on weekends.
To ensure that clients are not left wanting during his working hours, Goodhart employs a walker whom he has trained to take care of the dogs in mid-afternoon. His ambition is for the business to flourish to a point where it can become his primary focus. “The goal is to grow it to the point where it becomes my full-time focus,” he shared.
Goodhart’s roster of clients predominantly comes from Lower Manhattan, where he caters to around 10 to 20 dogs daily, demonstrating his commitment to establishing strong relationships within the local community. Much of his clientele has been built through word-of-mouth recommendations, which he believes is the cornerstone of small business success. “When you do great work in a small area, people talk,” he noted.
Additionally, he harnesses various marketing strategies to promote his service, including distributing business cards during his walks and engaging with doormen, who often have significant connections within buildings. “The doormen know everyone in the building and are incredibly well-connected,” Goodhart explained. Furthermore, his luxury positioning in the market has also played a critical role in attracting customers. “I’m not trying to be everything to everyone,” he articulated.
With his side hustle generating over £5,000 each month, Goodhart relishes the time he spends with the dogs. “There’s something grounding about spending time with animals that just want to move, explore, and be with you,” he reflected. In a fast-paced environment like Lower Manhattan, he recognises the essential role he plays in providing a needed service for busy and stressed-out clients.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing for Goodhart, as he faces challenges brought about by varying weather conditions. “The weather doesn’t negotiate,” he stated emphatically, highlighting the commitment involved. “Rain, heat, cold; the dogs still need their walks,” he added, recalling the humbling experience of taking early morning walks in January’s frost.
Regarding the financial side of the business, Goodhart disclosed that his company does indeed bring in “north of six figures.” He explained that pricing for services can fluctuate based on several factors, including the location, the size and behaviour of the dog, and the owners’ schedules. As a luxury service, he ensures that each client feels the value of what they are receiving.
Goodhart’s story serves as a powerful example of how passion, coupled with effective strategy, can lead to success in unexpected places. With dreams of dedicating himself fully to Goodhart Dog Co., his journey is one to watch in both the canine and entrepreneurial communities of New York City.
