NEW YORK CITY — A New York engineer has turned his love for dogs into a thriving six-figure side business, earning thousands of dollars each month while continuing to work a demanding full-time job in the clean energy sector.
Coby Goodhart, 28, spends his weekdays advising executives and government agencies on energy projects. But before and after work, he swaps boardrooms for dog leashes as the founder of Goodhart Dog Co., a luxury dog-walking service in Lower Manhattan.
According to Goodhart, the business now generates approximately $6,000 per month and more than six figures annually.
From Passion Project to Profitable Business
Goodhart moved to New York City in 2023 and soon realized he missed spending time around animals. What started as casually helping neighbors with their pets eventually evolved into a professional business.
He officially launched Goodhart Dog Co. in 2025 and built the company around his engineering schedule.
His day typically begins with early-morning dog walks before work, followed by additional appointments during lunch breaks, evenings, and weekends.
To keep up with growing demand, he has hired an additional dog walker to assist with client visits while he is working.
Together, they care for up to 20 dogs per day.
Luxury Service, Premium Prices
Unlike traditional dog-walking services, Goodhart markets his company as a premium pet-care experience.
Pricing varies depending on factors such as a dog’s size, behavior, location, and scheduling requirements.
The business primarily serves clients in Lower Manhattan, an area known for high-income professionals willing to pay extra for personalized pet services.
Goodhart has also leveraged social media and local networking to grow his customer base, often distributing business cards to apartment doormen who help connect him with residents and pet owners.
Growing Demand for Pet Services
The success of Goodhart Dog Co. reflects the growing demand for premium pet-care services in major cities.
As more professionals return to offices and maintain busy schedules, many pet owners are willing to pay for trusted caregivers who can provide reliable exercise and companionship for their dogs.
While most dog walkers earn modest hourly wages, some entrepreneurs in major metropolitan areas have successfully transformed pet care into highly profitable businesses.
Balancing Two Careers
Despite the long hours, Goodhart says the work never feels like a burden because of his passion for animals.
He credits careful scheduling, customer service, and a genuine love for dogs as the keys to the company’s rapid growth.
Even with a successful engineering career, he continues expanding the pet-care business and says he enjoys building something of his own.
