Downsell Sequence for Dog Walkers Email Guide
Why Downsell Sequence Emails Fail for Dog Walkers (And How to Fix Them)
You just sent a quote for your premium dog walking package. The client loved you, loved your service description...
Then they ghosted. It's a familiar sting.
You poured your energy into building rapport, showcasing your expertise, only to have a potential client walk away. Many dog walkers experience this, feeling like they either have to lower their prices dramatically or lose the client entirely.
But what if there was another way to keep them engaged without devaluing your core offering? That's where a well-crafted downsell sequence comes in.
It's not about discounting your value, but about offering a stepping stone, a smaller, more accessible service that still provides value and introduces them to your quality. It keeps the relationship alive, builds trust, and often leads to them upgrading to your full services later.
These downsell email templates are designed specifically for dog walkers. They're built to acknowledge their initial hesitation, present a viable alternative, and gently nudge them towards a 'yes'.
The Complete 3-Email Downsell Sequence for Dog Walkers
As a dog walker, your clients trust your recommendations. This 3-email sequence helps you introduce valuable tools without sounding like a salesperson.
The Understanding
Acknowledge their decision and show empathy
Hi [First Name],
I understand completely if our full [PREMIUM SERVICE NAME] wasn't quite the right fit for your needs right now. Choosing the best care for your dog is a big decision, and budget often plays a part.
My goal is always to provide exceptional care, and I know sometimes circumstances mean a full commitment isn't feasible immediately. I truly value the time we spent discussing your dog's unique personality and routine.
I still believe I can offer immense value and a positive experience for your furry friend, even if it's on a slightly different scale. I wanted to reach out one last time, just in case there's a smaller way I can help support you and your dog's well-being.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email employs empathetic listening and validation. By acknowledging their decision without judgment, you disarm any defensive feelings they might have. It maintains goodwill and keeps the door open, framing the downsell not as a concession, but as a continued desire to help.
The Alternative
Present the downsell as a perfect starting point
Hi [First Name],
Following up on our chat, I've been thinking about your pup, [DOG'S NAME], and the specific needs we discussed. While the full [PREMIUM SERVICE NAME] might not work now, I do have a different option that many clients find perfect as a starting point.
It's called the [PRODUCT NAME], a focused service designed to provide essential exercise and potty breaks, or perhaps a shorter companionship visit, at a more accessible price. This allows your dog to still get out, socialize, and relieve themselves, ensuring they're happier and healthier, without the full commitment of a longer, more frequent package.
Think of it as a taste of the quality care I provide, tailored to a lighter schedule or budget. It's a great way to ensure your dog doesn't miss out on vital activity, and you get peace of mind knowing they're in good hands.
Let me know if you'd like to hear more about this specific solution.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the 'foot in the door' technique. By offering a smaller, easier-to-accept commitment, you reduce the perceived risk for the client. It reframes the downsell as a solution to their immediate need, rather than a lesser version of the original offer, making it feel like a smart choice.
The Last Chance
Create final urgency for the downsell offer
Hi [First Name],
Just a quick heads-up regarding the [PRODUCT NAME] I mentioned. I'm currently finalizing my schedule for the upcoming month, and spots for this specific service are filling up quickly.
This focused option, designed to give your dog essential care without the full commitment, has proven very popular with new clients looking to experience my services. If you were considering taking advantage of this more accessible offering to keep your dog happy and active, now is the time to reach out.
I want to make sure your pup gets the care they need. My schedule books out fast, especially for these introductory slots.
If you're interested, please reply by [DATE] to secure your spot.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email employs the principle of scarcity and urgency. By stating that spots are limited and setting a deadline, it creates a fear of missing out (FOMO). This prompts immediate action, as the client perceives the opportunity as valuable and potentially fleeting, encouraging them to decide now rather than later.
4 Downsell Sequence Mistakes Dog Walkers Make
| Don't Do This | Do This Instead |
|---|---|
✕ Quoting a premium price without explaining the unique value that justifies it. | Break down what makes your service different, specialized training, GPS tracking, detailed report cards, or specific certifications, before giving the price. |
✕ Not following up after a client declines the initial offer. | Always send a follow-up email acknowledging their decision and offering a smaller, tailored service as a downsell to keep the conversation going. |
✕ Only offering one type of service or package. | Create a tiered service structure, from quick potty breaks to full adventure walks, giving clients options that fit different needs and budgets. |
✕ Failing to collect client feedback after a trial or initial service. | Send a brief survey or ask for direct feedback after the first few walks to identify areas for improvement and show you value their input. |
Downsell Sequence Timing Guide for Dog Walkers
When you send matters as much as what you send.
The Understanding
Acknowledge their decision and show empathy
The Alternative
Present the downsell as a perfect starting point
The Last Chance
Create final urgency for the downsell offer
Send within 24-48 hours after the main offer closes.
Customize Downsell Sequence for Your Dog Walker Specialty
Adapt these templates for your specific industry.
Beginners
- Offer a 'starter walk' package that's shorter and more affordable, specifically designed to introduce new clients to your service without a big commitment.
- Focus your downsell messaging on the immediate relief and convenience you provide, like ensuring their dog gets a crucial midday break while they're at work.
- Use social proof from other new clients who started with a smaller package and loved the experience, showing it's a popular entry point.
Intermediate Practitioners
- Position the downsell as a flexible solution for busy weeks or specific dog needs, rather than a permanent downgrade, implying it complements their existing routine.
- Emphasize how even a smaller service from a trusted professional can prevent behavioral issues or boredom, saving them bigger headaches later.
- Suggest the downsell as a way to maintain consistency for their dog's routine, even if their primary walker is unavailable or they have temporary budget constraints.
Advanced Professionals
- Frame the downsell as a 'maintenance' or 'booster' service, a way to keep their dog engaged and active between more intensive training sessions or longer adventure walks.
- Highlight the specific expertise you bring even to shorter walks, such as reinforcing good leash manners or addressing minor behavioral quirks in a focused session.
- Offer a limited-time 'expert check-in walk' where the downsell includes a brief consultation on their dog's overall well-being or progress.
Industry Specialists
- Tailor the downsell to a very specific need, like a 'calm-walk tune-up' for reactive dogs, or a 'gentle senior stroll' for older pups, emphasizing your specialized approach.
- Explain how even a shorter, specialized walk maintains progress on specific training goals or provides targeted mental stimulation for their unique dog.
- Use language that resonates with their specific concern, for example, for reactive dogs: 'a focused session to reinforce positive associations in controlled environments.'
Ready to Save Hours?
You now have everything: 3 complete email templates, the psychology behind each one, when to send them, common mistakes to avoid, and how to customize for your niche. Writing this from scratch would take you 4-6 hours. Or...
Get Your Dog Walkers Emails Written In Under 5 Minutes.
You've got the blueprints. Now get them built. Answer a few questions about your dog walkers offer and get all 7 emails written for you. Your voice. Your offer. Ready to send.
Stop guessing what to write. These are the emails that sell dog walkers offers.
One-time payment. No subscription. Credits valid 12 months.