The Ultimate ‘Set and Forget’ Marketing Plan for Local Dog Walking Specialists in NZ

Being a dog walking pro in New Zealand is all about connecting with local dog owners who want the best care for their mates. But juggling daily walks and marketing can feel overwhelming. This guide offers 10 practical tips designed specifically for Kiwi dog walkers to attract steady local clients with minimal ongoing effort.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Get Listed on NZ Pet Directories

Start by listing your dog walking services on trusted New Zealand platforms like Neighbourly, TradeMe Services, and local pet directories. Many pet owners use these sites to find reliable walkers nearby.

For example, a dog walker in Wellington popping up on Neighbourly can tap into a community of owners actively searching for trustworthy walkers.

Make sure your profile is clear, with great photos and easy-to-find contact details to make it simple for clients to reach you.

2. Join Local Facebook Groups

Facebook groups like ‘Auckland Dog Owners’ or ‘Christchurch Pet Lovers’ are buzzing with locals seeking recommendations and advice on dog walking.

Weirdly enough, giving free tips or answering questions helps build trust more than any ad. This turns group members into loyal clients over time.

A Christchurch walker mentioned that active participation in these groups brought her a steady stream of referrals.

3. Leverage Yada for Direct Clients

Yada’s Kiwi platform connects dog walking specialists directly with clients without charging lead or success fees. It’s a win-win for local walkers keeping their earnings intact.

Imagine receiving a job alert from a family in Tauranga needing daily walks, then quickly responding on your mobile to secure the booking.

Yada’s private chat feature helps you build trust through seamless direct communication.

4. Build Trust with Client Reviews

Kiwis rely heavily on word-of-mouth and reviews. After a successful walk or ongoing booking, kindly ask clients for Google or Facebook reviews.

One Auckland dog walker boosted bookings by featuring glowing client testimonials and photos of happy dogs on her website.

These honest reviews make a huge difference in attracting new clients.

5. Share Fun Dog Walking Tips

Share bite-sized, helpful tips on social media or local newsletters, like ‘Keeping your dog safe on winter walks’ or ‘Fun games to play while out.’

This keeps you top-of-mind for dog owners who see you as a helpful expert rather than a salesperson.

One Wellington walker noticed a steady increase in client enquiries after regularly posting walking tips.

6. Partner with Local Pet Businesses

Build connections with vets, pet shops, and doggy daycares to create a referral network. Leaving business cards or teaming up for events can make a lasting impact.

For example, a Nelson walker collaborated with a local pet shop for joint promotions, resulting in mutual client growth.

These relationships help you reach more dog owners in your community.

7. Offer a Free Meet-and-Greet

Offer no-obligation meet-and-greet sessions so dog owners can see how you interact with their pets in person.

It’s especially important in NZ where trust and connection are highly valued in choosing a dog walker.

A Tauranga dog walker used free meet-and-greets to convert hesitant clients into regulars.

8. Create a Referral Program

Encourage satisfied clients to recommend your services by giving discounts or gifts for every new client they refer.

A Hamilton walker doubled her bookings in six months with a simple $20 credit referral incentive.

This approach keeps your marketing running in the background, effortlessly.

9. Attend and Sponsorship of Local Dog Events

Participate in community events like dog shows, charity walks, or pet fairs. A stall or sponsorship can raise your profile and attract new clients.

A Christchurch walker attending a local dog festival secured several bookings from face-to-face chats.

Events are perfect chances to showcase your love for dogs and build community trust.

10. Build a Mobile-Friendly Website

A simple, fast-loading website is crucial, especially as more Kiwis search on mobiles. Use platforms like Wix or Google Sites to keep setup easy and affordable.

Include your services, client testimonials, pricing, and contact info in a clear layout.

An Auckland walker’s website with an easy booking form helped expand clients across her suburb and beyond.