Resources &amp; Guides

Your Puppy's First Groom

The earlier the better -- but how early is early enough? Here's why that first appointment matters more than you might think, and exactly how to prepare your puppy for it.

Your First Visit to Tūi & Chief

Not sure what happens at a professional groom? Here's a full walkthrough of what to expect when you bring your dog to Tūi & Chief in Hobsonville -- from drop-off to pick-up.

Finding Your Grooming Rhythm

Every dog is different. Here's how to figure out the right grooming frequency for your specific dog -- and why consistency matters more than perfect timing.

Helping Your Anxious Dog

If your dog gets stressed at the groomer, you're not alone -- and there's a lot you can do about it. Here's how to prepare an anxious dog and what to look for in a patient groomer.

5 min read

Dogs and Blow-Dryers

The bath is often fine. It's the dryer that's the scary part. Here's why some dogs struggle with blow-drying, and what a good groomer does to make it easier.

Know Your Dog's Coat

Not all coats are created equal. Understanding what type of coat your dog has is the foundation of good grooming -- and getting it wrong can cause real problems.

The Purpose of Deshedding

Deshedding isn't just about keeping your floors tidy. It's genuinely important for your dog's skin health and comfort -- here's why.

Grooming With the Seasons

Does your dog need a different groom depending on the season? Yes -- and knowing the difference can make a real impact on their comfort year-round.

What Is Hand Stripping?

Hand stripping is a traditional technique for wire-haired breeds that maintains the coat's natural texture and colour. Here's what it involves and whether your dog needs it.

Matting: Why Prevention Is Everything

Matting is one of the most common -- and most preventable -- problems we see. Here's what causes it, why it's more serious than it looks, and how to stop it from happening.

How to Brush Your Dog

Ten minutes of brushing a few times a week can make a huge difference between grooms. Here's exactly how to do it -- broken down by coat type -- and which tools to use.

5 min read

Ticks: Signs and Removal

Ticks are becoming more common in New Zealand -- and how you remove one matters enormously. Here's what to look for, where to check, and what to do if you find one.

Dogs and Fleas: What to Know

Fleas are a year-round problem in Auckland's mild climate. Here's how dogs pick them up, why treating your dog alone isn't enough, and how to protect your whole household.

Why Nail Trimming Matters

Overgrown nails aren't just unsightly -- they can cause genuine structural problems for your dog over time. Here's why regular nail trimming is one of the most important things you can do.

Common Dog Skin Problems

Groomers often notice skin problems before owners do. Here's what to look out for -- from hot spots and grass seeds to allergies and seborrhoeic dermatitis.