New To Grooming...
If you have a dog who is new to the grooming experience, we are here to help. We have protocols in place that gently introduce your dog to the salon environment and the grooming processes, ensuring their first experiences are positive, safe, and stress-free.
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PUPPIES REQUIRING A HAIRCUT
All new puppies must complete our Puppy Grooming Protocol before their first haircut. (see below)
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NEW DOGS
We highly recommend any dog coming in for their first time to have a 30 minute Confidence Session before their first groom appointment. This includes puppies that don't require haircuts, but will be attending for grooming services, such as a wash and dry and nail trim.
Puppy Grooming Protocol
(under 6 months of age)
At Wang Doggy Day Spa, we believe that grooming should be a positive and stress-free experience from the very beginning. Puppies learn quickly, and gentle introductions set them up for a lifetime of tolerant, confident, happy grooming.
Please note: All new puppies must complete our Puppy Grooming Protocol before their first haircut. Breeds that do not require a full haircut will also need to book a confidence session prior to any groom appointment.
Here's how it works:
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1. Start Early – After 2nd Vaccinations
Once your puppy has had their 2nd vaccination, we encourage you to start visits. Even just popping into reception for some treats, without an appointment, helps your puppy build confidence and form positive associations with our salon.
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2. Book a "30min Confidence Session" Appointment
Leaving your dog in a new environment with strange people can be overwhelming for your dog. A 30-minute Confidence Session allows your puppy to slowly meet our groomers, explore the salon, and be gently introduced to the environment without any grooming being done.
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3. Book a "Puppy Experience" Appointment
After your puppy has attended a confidence session they can then come in for a Puppy Experience where they will receive a warm bath, blow dry, nail and eye trim and a hygiene area shave. We recommend you book this service at the same time as you book your confidence session, so they are roughly 7 - 14 days apart.
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4. Homework Between Visits
After each visit, we’ll provide you with simple “homework” exercises to continue desensitisation at home. These support your puppy’s progress between sessions.
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5. Extra Confidence Sessions (if needed)
Every puppy develops at their own pace. If needed, we may recommend additional 30-minute confidence sessions before moving on to their first full groom.
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6. Book your puppies first haircut "Day Spa Full Groom" (approx 4–5 months of age)
Once your puppy is relaxed, tolerant, confident and ready, we’ll schedule their first full haircut, usually between 4–5 months of age.
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By following this step-by-step approach, we ensure your puppy’s first grooming experience is safe, positive and stress-free, building the foundation for a lifetime of happy grooming.