How to impress your dog-sitter

Leaving your dog in someone else’s care can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re a doting pet parent. But making a great impression on your dog-sitter not only ensures your furry friend receives the best care—it also builds a trustworthy relationship that can pay off in the long term. Here’s how to truly impress your dog-sitter and set them up for a successful experience with your pet.

1. Provide a Detailed Dog Profile

Your dog-sitter will appreciate a comprehensive overview of your pet’s personality, preferences, and quirks. Create a document or folder (physical or digital) that includes the following:

• Feeding Schedule: Clearly outline the times, amounts, and type of food, including any treats or supplements.

• Medical Information: Note any medications, allergies, and your vet’s contact details.

• Behavioral Traits: Include whether your dog is anxious, has a fear of thunderstorms, or dislikes other dogs.

• Commands and Training: List commands your dog knows (e.g., sit, stay, come) and how they respond best.

• Walking Details: Describe preferred walking routes, leash behavior, and whether they should avoid dog parks or crowded areas.

Being proactive with this information shows the sitter that you respect their role and want them to succeed.

2. Leave a Pet Essentials Station

Make it easy for your dog-sitter to find everything they’ll need. Set up a dedicated space stocked with:

• Dog food and bowls

• Leashes, collars, harnesses

• Waste bags and cleaning supplies

• Toys and comfort items

• Medications (clearly labeled)

A well-organized area communicates your care and attention to detail, both of which leave a strong impression.

3. Introduce Your Dog Properly

Arrange a meet-and-greet before you leave, if possible. This gives your dog a chance to get comfortable and helps the sitter understand their temperament. Be present but allow space for the sitter and dog to interact without your interference.

During this introduction, share insights such as:

• How your dog behaves around strangers

• What signals to watch for when your dog is anxious

• Favorite games or toys

Creating familiarity beforehand minimizes stress for both the dog and sitter, making the job easier and more enjoyable.

4. Create a Realistic Routine

Don’t expect your sitter to replicate every single nuance of your daily schedule, but do outline a manageable routine. Stick to essential elements such as feeding times, bathroom breaks, walks, and playtime. If your dog gets a treat after a walk or sleeps with a favorite blanket, note that as well.

Dog-sitters appreciate predictability, and a consistent schedule makes the experience smoother for your pup too.

5. Stock Up on Supplies

Running out of food or treats while you’re away is frustrating for any sitter. Before leaving, ensure everything your dog needs is in ample supply. Over-prepare if needed. Include:

• Extra food and treats

• Back-up leash or harness

• First-aid kit

• Cleaning products for accidents

• Favorite toys

Preparedness goes a long way in showing your consideration for their time and effort.

6. Leave Emergency Contacts

While you hope nothing goes wrong, it’s smart to prepare for the unexpected. Include a list of emergency numbers:

• Your vet’s office and a nearby 24-hour animal hospital

• Your contact information, along with travel details

• A backup local contact in case the sitter can’t reach you

• Pet insurance information, if available

Organizing this ahead of time makes the sitter feel secure and trusted.

7. Make Communication Easy

Let your sitter know how often you’d like updates—daily texts, photo check-ins, or a quick call. Give them freedom to communicate in a way that’s natural for them but within your boundaries.

You can even leave behind a small notebook or a digital diary link where they can log activities like walks, meals, bathroom breaks, and any behavior changes.

This kind of transparency builds mutual respect and trust.

8. Offer Comfort Tools for Your Dog

Dogs can get anxious when their owners are away. Help your sitter keep them calm by leaving comfort items:

• A worn shirt that smells like you

• Familiar blankets

• White noise machines or calming music playlists

• Chew toys or enrichment puzzles

A relaxed dog is easier to care for, making your sitter’s experience much more pleasant.

9. Respect Their Time and Space

Be punctual when handing off your dog, and return at the agreed-upon time. If you’re going to be late, let the sitter know immediately. Don’t ask for last-minute favors unless it’s an emergency, and always offer compensation if they’re going above and beyond.

Showing appreciation for their time leaves a lasting impression and encourages them to work with you again.

10. Express Gratitude Generously

Once you return, thank your sitter sincerely. A handwritten note, small gift, or even a bonus tip shows your appreciation. If everything went well, offer to be a reference or leave a glowing review if they work professionally.

Simple acts of kindness foster loyalty and reinforce that you value their work and trust.

11. Ask for Feedback

Finally, ask your dog-sitter how the experience went. This not only helps you improve your pet-care system but also makes the sitter feel heard. They might suggest small changes that will make future stays smoother for everyone involved.

Showing that you’re open to feedback reflects positively on your attitude and helps build a better relationship.

Conclusion

Impressing your dog-sitter comes down to preparation, communication, and gratitude. By thinking ahead and treating your sitter like a professional, you’re not only ensuring your dog’s well-being but also nurturing a dependable connection for future needs. When you return to a happy, well-cared-for pup and a sitter eager to work with you again, you’ll know your efforts were well worth it.