Call them curl support dogs, haircut sherpas, or just Dax and Fifi. One thing we love as much as a perfect ringlet is a perfect ringlet with a wagging tail.
If you’ve visited our curly hair salon in Pittsburgh, you’ve probably been greeted by a wet nose before you even reached the chair. Our “Salon Dogs” aren’t just mascots; they are an integral part of your curly hair experience. Here’s why we believe our Curl Success Experience is better with a curl support dog by your side.
Why this Pittsburgh Curly Hair Specialist has Salon Dogs
New cut. A new look. Curl detox. Whatever brings you to this curly hair salon in Pittsburgh, pre-haircut nerves are common, and salon appointments can definitely work up the feels. Especially for those of us have”hair trauma” in the past, thanks to stylists who didn’t understand our hair or specialize in curl-by-curl haircuts like we do. So, in shop, our curl support dogs have a bunch of jobs:
- They Lower the “Chair Anxiety”: It’s scientifically proven that petting a dog lowers cortisol. If you’re nervous about a big chop, or even a little one, a dog’s presence acts as a natural reset button.
- They Create a Community Vibe: Pittsburgh is a dog town! Having our furry friends here makes the salon feel like home, not a cold, clinical space.
- They Bring Patience and Presence: Dogs live in the moment. And in these moments, you’re in our chair, or at our shampoo bowl or under our hood dryer and dang…. You are loved! Dax and FiFi’s calm energy reminds us to slow down and enjoy the self-care process.
Curl Support Dogs’ “Paws-itive” Interaction Guide
We want everyone—both human and canine—to have a safe and relaxing salon experience. If you’re meeting our curl support dogs for the first time, here’s the best way to say hello:
- Come On In: No need to address the dogs or make a big show. Our dogs are reactive (in the best way), because clients come in and want to be all over the dogs immediately (yes, they are loved). But you don’t have to acknowledge them until they settle and get the hint you’ll love on them when you’re ready.
- Prepare to Make a New Friend: Once you’re ready for a cuddle, let Dax and FiFi know. Call their names or pat your lap. They especially love cuddling under your cape during your consult and at the shampoo bowl! Yes, they will hide there and yes, they love it there.
- Say Cheese: Our curl support dogs love getting their picture taken, and they may even photo bomb your ring light session after your haircut and/or style. Yes you can pick them up, yes you can have your “after” picture taken with them, and yes they love being handled.
If you aren’t a “dog person” or have allergies, or just aren’t comfy with dogs in your space, let us know when you book. We are happy to give the curl support dogs a break in the back room during your appointment.
What Our Curl Support Dogs Bring to Your Curl Journey
Beyond the cuteness, our curl support dogs play a role in the actual service. They are the ultimate vibe-checkers. While we’re checking your curl type or pattern, or calculating your cut with our Head Shape Matters logic, the dogs are there to ensure you’re leaning back and breathing. Think of them as your personal “Emotional Support Stylists.” They ensure that while we take your hair very seriously, your curl journey is being kicked off with light and joy. You’re about to fall in deep love with your curls! You need a breather before that happens. And maybe a few kisses of support.
Our Curl Support Dogs Love Their Jobs
And that job is putting clients at ease in the salon and in the chair. Being a curl support dog is indeed a job, and there are countless hours of training and socializing to be the light and the joy that they are. I love watching them work. And clients love that Dax and Fifi instinctively know when to spring into a lap, or settle quietly at your feet (and that they love marshmallows and Little Debbie snack cakes!) I hope you get to meet them soon!
A Quick Note for Our Clients: Dax and Fifi are of course up-to-date on vaccinations. Both doodle mixes, they are meticulously trained by Michelle at Say It Once Dog Training. Their temperaments are calm, their curls are non hypoallergenic (we have allergies, too!) and they are just as much a part of Kindred Curl as we are. Our curl support dogs have been raised in the salon, and will take to you whether it’s your first time here or your 10th. They are amazing with the kiddos, too, turning their first big-kid curly cut into an adventure, and chasing all of the anxiety away.
And while we are a dog friendly hair salon in Pittsburgh, if you would like to bring your pup for your appointment, a meet and greet is required before you come in.