Your next best-seller is probably already in your inbox (You just need to do this)

Here's something a lot of dog business owners never do, and it's costing them a boost to revenue.

And the worst thing? It's an easy fix.

Most are spending hundreds, sometimes thousands testing new services, printing flyers, running promos, Meta campaigns and so on.

Basically going in blind, guessing and hoping something sticks.

While some of these have their place, there's an often overlooked solution to finding the right thing to sell or offer your clients.

And it's within touching distance. It's already sitting inside their business, with the people who've bought from them or connected with them in some way.

Yes, your past customers and clients.

Who, incidentally, very often know exactly what they want. And if you ask them, most will happily tell you.

So think about your top five customers and clients. The ones who rebook and buy regularly. Most of them trust you completely with their dog or they value what you sell.

Their opinions could be pure gold, because they're not guesses. They're pressing demand from your actual buying customers. The people you already serve.

Recently, a dog trainer in Manchester asked three of her regulars what would make life easier for them and their dogs. Within a week she had two new offers.

A midweek "homework support" call for owners struggling between sessions, and a "puppy socialisation" morning get-together.

Both were things she'd never considered before, and both were fully booked within days of launching.

No ads or discounts needed.

She just asked her audience one question:

"What would you love me to offer next that would genuinely help you and your dog?"

The replies came in thick and fast and if you have an audience, it will likely be the same for you. Because people like the idea of being part of something. Being heard. That hasn't changed in hundreds of years.

Once you find out what they already want, the selling becomes a lot easier.

This is known as demand discovery.

It's one of the most underused tools in small business marketing. The reason big brands run focus groups and customer surveys isn't because they're throwing ideas at the wall. It's because direct feedback from real customers eliminates the most expensive mistake in business, which is creating and selling something nobody wants.

You don't need a survey platform or a fancy questionnaire. All you need is a genuine conversation with your clients and customers.

When a loyal client says "I just wish there was something for my dog when I travel that actually keeps them settled and comfortable" — that's not small talk. That's a product idea.

Or a client who wants you to come into their home to groom their dog. Not the van. Their home, with them there. That's a premium service waiting to be offered.

Or someone who says "I'd love a dog bed my puppy can't destroy in ten minutes." Another idea, right there.

You'll be surprised how many come from just a handful of conversations. Some will seem unlikely at first, but they often spark something better.

The other thing this does, and people underestimate this, is deepen loyalty. It's not just about community. You're signalling that their voice actually matters to your business. That's rare, and your clients/customers will respect you for it.

You're making them feel like insiders.

Try this in the next few days.

Pick three of your most loyal clients/customers, and ask them this one question, either in person, by text, email, or a voice note:

"Is there anything you wish I offered that would make life easier for you and your dog?"

Write down every answer, even the ones that seem far-fetched. Themes will emerge. If the same idea comes up several times, give it a huge tick!

Be sure to reply to anyone who gives you an idea. Something like this:

"I'm actually thinking about this, you'll be the first to know when I launch."

Now you have a warm lead before you've even built it.

This is a simple thing you can do, and you'll be surprised with the results.

If you've got any questions about this or want to talk it through, just hit reply. I'm happy to help.