Why Word-of-Mouth Is Still the Most Powerful Marketing Tool in NZ - And How to Boost It for Dog Walking

In New Zealand’s dog walking scene, trusted recommendations from locals outshine any flashy ad. Word-of-mouth is a Kiwi’s go-to for finding a reliable dog walker. This guide offers practical, easy-to-apply tips to help dog walking professionals grow their client base through genuine word-of-mouth.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Deliver Outstanding Dog Care

Word-of-mouth starts with providing exceptional care for every dog you walk. NZ dog owners value reliability and genuine love for their pets.

For example, a dog walker in Wellington who sends daily photos and shares stories about the walk builds deeper client trust and encourages positive chatter.

Think of every walk as a chance to impress not just the dog, but also their owner, who will happily tell friends about your top-notch service.

2. Encourage Reviews and Testimonials

Don’t be shy to ask for reviews on Google, Facebook, or industry platforms like Yada, where your reputation can attract more clients.

Sharing testimonials with local flair and real photos of happy dogs helps build confidence in your service among new clients.

Yada’s rating system rewards consistent quality without charging lead or success fees-helping you grow through authentic client feedback.

3. Engage in Local Pet Owner Communities

Participate in neighbourhood groups on Facebook, Neighbourly, or local forums where Kiwi pet owners seek recommendations.

Share helpful tips or stories from your walks to become a trusted part of the community without sounding pushy.

Dog walkers in Christchurch have found local Facebook groups invaluable for developing word-of-mouth referrals.

4. Use Yada to Find New Clients

Yada is a user-friendly platform connecting local specialists with clients. Dog walkers can respond to jobs for free depending on their rating.

Its private chat feature helps you maintain personal client relationships that encourage repeat bookings and referrals.

Dog walkers in areas like Hamilton and Tauranga benefit from Yada’s mobile-friendly platform for building their clientele steadily.

5. Create Personalised Client Experiences

Small details like birthday messages for dogs or custom updates delight clients and spark conversations with their networks.

A Wellington dog walker shares how personalised notes helped build a loyal client base through enthusiastic word-of-mouth.

These thoughtful touches make clients feel seen and valued, leading to plenty of referrals.

6. Host Community Dog Walk Events

Organise regular group walks or meet-ups in local parks to meet new clients and build rapport face-to-face.

Dog walkers in Dunedin use these casual gatherings to create buzz and demonstrate their care expertise, helping them grow their business organically.

Weirdly enough, these friendly walks often lead to multiple referrals from participants who appreciate your presence in the community.

7. Partner Locally with Pet Services

Build referral networks with vets, groomers, or pet retailers to create mutual client-sharing opportunities.

For example, leaving flyers or business cards at the local vet clinic in Rotorua can help increase your bookings through trusted recommendations.

These grassroots partnerships support sustainable word-of-mouth in your pet-loving community.

8. Run a Simple Referral Program

Offer discounts or freebies for client referrals to encourage sharing your dog walking service with friends and family.

Dog walkers in Auckland have found small rewards motivate clients to act as enthusiastic ambassadors for their business.

Keep rewards simple and meaningful to foster ongoing word-of-mouth momentum.

9. Maintain Friendly, Clear Communication

Regular updates, photos, and quick check-ins keep clients informed and build trust over time.

Dog walkers in Christchurch credit personalised communication for increasing client retention and generating organic referrals.

Clients appreciate clear, warm communication that makes them feel valued and confident to recommend you.

10. Stay Consistent Amid Challenges

Dog walking in NZ faces regulatory and seasonal challenges, but steady presence and quality service keep referrals flowing.

Yada helps you stay active in the market without paying extra fees, enabling you to focus on building authentic word-of-mouth.

Think of it as nurturing a garden-the more consistent your care, the better the word-of-mouth harvest over time.