As more people adopt pets, especially dogs, the need for professional dog sitters has increased. Dog owners want the best for their pets, especially when they need to go away for work or vacations. 

Many pet owners prefer dog sitters because they offer personalized care in the comfort of the dog’s own home. 

Professional dog sitters are also trained to handle various dog behaviors, making them a great option for those who want reliable care for their furry friends.

In this blog, we will share with you the top 15 effective tips for dog sitters that will surely help your dog sitting business.

Importance of Providing Excellent Care to Dogs While Their Owners Are Away

When owners leave for work or a trip, they want to be sure that their dog is happy, healthy, and well taken care of. Excellent care goes beyond feeding and walking; it includes providing companionship, following routines, and paying attention to any special needs the dog may have. 

Dogs can experience anxiety or stress when their owners are gone, so it’s important to make them feel comfortable and secure. A good dog sitter knows how to provide this level of care, giving both the owner and the dog peace of mind. The better the sitter is at their job, the more likely they are to be called again, creating trust with the owner.

Top Helpful 15 Tips for Dog Sitters

1. Get to Know the Dog’s Routine

Every dog has a unique routine that helps them feel comfortable and secure. Dogs thrive on consistency, so knowing their daily schedule is important for maintaining their well-being while their owner is away. 

Understanding things like feeding times, walking schedules, and when the dog likes to play or nap helps the sitter keep the dog calm and happy. Sticking to the dog’s routine reduces stress and helps the dog adjust better to the sitter’s presence.

Tips for Asking Owners About Their Pet’s Daily Habits: 

Before the dog-sitting job starts, ask the owner questions about their dog’s daily routine. Some questions to ask include:

• When does the dog usually eat and how much?
• How often does the dog need to go outside to use the bathroom?
• What time does the dog usually sleep or nap?
• Does the dog prefer quiet time or interactive play?
• Are there any special needs or preferences the dog has, like favorite toys or places to sleep? By gathering this information, you’ll be able to follow the dog’s schedule closely and provide the best care possible.

2. Establish Clear Communication with Pet Owners

Clear communication with the pet owner is key to ensuring a smooth dog-sitting experience. Before starting, make sure you and the owner are on the same page about what the dog needs. 

Discuss things like feeding habits, exercise routines, and any special instructions the owner has for their dog. If the owner has specific preferences or rules (such as no table scraps or keeping the dog off the furniture), make sure to understand and follow these instructions. This will prevent confusion and ensure the dog receives the care the owner expects.

How to Keep Owners Informed While Sitting Their Dog: 

It’s important to check in with the owner during the dog-sitting period to keep them updated and provide peace of mind. You can send regular updates through text messages or photos showing how the dog is doing. Let the owner know when the dog eats, plays, and takes walks. 

If any issues arise, such as the dog not eating or being anxious, it’s important to contact the owner right away. Keeping communication open and transparent will make the owner feel comfortable and confident in your care.

3. Meet the Dog Before the Sitting

Meeting the dog before the actual sitting is a great way to build trust and comfort for both the sitter and the dog. For the dog, meeting the sitter beforehand can help reduce anxiety. 

Dogs are more likely to feel comfortable with someone they’ve already met, making the transition easier when the sitter arrives for the full sitting. For the sitter, this is an opportunity to observe the dog’s behavior, understand its personality, and get familiar with the dog’s preferences.

How This Helps Build Trust: 

A meet-and-greet allows the dog to get used to the sitter and lets the sitter ask any final questions about the dog’s needs. It’s also an opportunity for the owner to share important information about the dog’s care. 

By meeting in advance, both the owner and the dog can feel more at ease when it’s time for the actual sitting. Trust is key in a dog-sitting relationship, and this initial meeting helps establish that trust, making the experience smoother for everyone involved.

4. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Emergencies can happen, so it’s important to be prepared. Before the sitting begins, ask the owner for important contact information, such as their phone number, the dog’s veterinarian’s contact details, and any emergency numbers. 

Knowing where the nearest animal hospital is and having the owner’s permission to make decisions in case of an emergency will help you stay calm and act quickly if something unexpected happens.

First Aid Basics Every Dog Sitter Should Know: 

While you don’t need to be a professional, knowing basic first aid can make a big difference. Some important skills for dog sitters include:

• How to stop bleeding (using clean cloths or bandages)
• How to perform CPR (if the dog stops breathing or has no pulse)
• Recognizing signs of choking and how to help
• How to treat minor injuries or bites It’s also helpful to know what signs to watch for in a sick dog, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior. Keeping a first aid kit handy is always a good idea, as well as knowing how to use it in an emergency.

5. Maintain a Safe Environment

Creating a safe environment for the dog means removing anything that could harm them. Dogs are curious and may get into things they shouldn’t. Before sitting, make sure the area where the dog will spend most of their time is dog-proofed. This includes:

• Checking for small objects (like toys, shoes, or paper) that could be swallowed.
• Making sure there are no sharp objects or dangerous tools lying around.
• Securing trash cans or food items that dogs could get into. It’s also a good idea to keep doors and windows closed, so the dog can’t accidentally escape. A safe space helps the dog feel comfortable and prevents any accidents from happening.

Keeping Dangerous Substances Out of Reach: 

Many common household items, such as cleaning supplies, medications, and certain foods, can be dangerous to dogs. Always make sure these items are stored in places the dog cannot reach, such as high shelves or locked cabinets. Some things to watch out for include chocolate, grapes, onions, and any household cleaners that may be toxic. If you’re unsure about something, it’s always better to be cautious and remove it from the dog’s environment.

6. Follow Feeding Instructions to the Letter

Every dog has unique dietary needs, and it’s important to follow the owner’s instructions closely. Some dogs may have food allergies, sensitivities, or special diets (like low-fat or grain-free food), while others may need to avoid certain ingredients. 

Make sure you know the exact type and amount of food the dog should be eating, as well as how often. If the dog needs to take supplements or specific medications with meals, be sure to follow the owner’s guidance.

Using Food and Water Bowls Effectively: 

Using the right bowls can help keep feeding times clean and stress-free. Make sure the bowls are the appropriate size for the dog and are easy for them to access. 

Always provide fresh water, and keep the water bowl clean. If the dog has trouble with eating or drinking, ask the owner if they have any tips, such as elevating the bowl for older dogs or using special bowls for slow eaters. Taking care of the dog’s meals in this way ensures they stay healthy and hydrated during their time with you.

7. Stick to Exercise Schedules

Exercise is essential for a dog’s physical and mental health. Regular activity helps dogs stay fit, maintain a healthy weight, and burn off energy. Without enough exercise, dogs may become bored, anxious, or even develop behavioral problems. Exercise also keeps their muscles strong, improves their digestion, and helps them sleep better at night.

Tailoring Activity Levels Based on Breed and Age: 

Not all dogs have the same exercise needs. Active breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers need more exercise to stay happy and healthy, while smaller or older dogs may require less. When dog sitting, it’s important to ask the owner how much exercise the dog typically gets and adjust accordingly. 

For example, a young, energetic dog might need a long walk or playtime in the yard, while an older dog might prefer a short walk or a gentle game of fetch. By tailoring the exercise to the dog’s breed and age, you can ensure they get the right amount of activity without overdoing it.

8. Administer Medications Safely

Some dogs may need to take medications for health issues, allergies, or chronic conditions. As a dog sitter, it’s important to handle medications carefully and responsibly. Make sure you know the exact dosage and timing for each medication. Always follow the owner’s instructions to avoid giving too much or too little. If the dog has any special instructions, such as taking the medication with food or at a specific time of day, be sure to follow those as well.

Tips for Administering Pills and Treatments: 

Administering medications can sometimes be tricky, especially if the dog is picky about taking pills. Here are a few tips:

• Hide the Pill in Food: If the dog doesn’t take pills easily, try hiding it in a small amount of their favorite treat or food, like peanut butter or cheese.
• Use a Pill Pocket: These are special treats designed to hide pills inside, making it easier to get the dog to swallow them.
• Be Gentle: If you need to place the pill directly in the dog’s mouth, do it gently. Open their mouth carefully, place the pill at the back of their throat, and close their mouth to encourage them to swallow.
• Follow Through: After giving the medication, make sure the dog swallows it. You may want to offer a small treat or water as a reward and to make sure the pill went down.

9. Stay Patient and Calm

Dogs are very sensitive to their surroundings and can pick up on your emotions. If you are calm and patient, it helps the dog feel more relaxed and secure. 

On the other hand, if you feel stressed or anxious, the dog may start to feel nervous too. Staying calm is especially important in situations where the dog might be acting out or feeling anxious, like during thunderstorms or when they’re in an unfamiliar place.

Handling Nervous or Anxious Dogs: 

Some dogs may feel anxious when their owner is away, especially if they’re not used to being around new people. If the dog shows signs of nervousness, such as pacing, whining, or hiding, it’s important to remain patient and give them space. 

Speak softly and gently, and avoid sudden movements. Sometimes, calming treats or a favorite toy can help soothe an anxious dog. Giving them time to adjust and showing them patience will help them feel more comfortable in your care.

10. Maintain Consistent Rules

Consistency is one of the most important aspects of maintaining good behavior in dogs. Just like humans, dogs need clear expectations and routines to feel secure and understand what is expected of them. If you change the rules too much or let the dog do things they’re not allowed to do, it can confuse them and lead to bad habits.

Reinforcing Commands and Routines: 

Maintaining consistency means reinforcing the same rules and commands the dog is used to. For example, if the dog is not allowed on the furniture, make sure to keep enforcing that rule. If the dog is used to being given a treat after a walk, continue that routine. 

You should also keep up with any basic commands the dog already knows, like “sit,” “stay,” or “come.” This will help the dog feel secure and keep their behavior in check, making your job as a sitter easier and the experience better for the dog.

11. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Space

Dogs need a comfortable and quiet place to sleep, especially when they’re away from their owner. To set up a cozy sleeping space, make sure the area is away from loud noises and distractions. Place a soft bed, blanket, or dog mat in a quiet corner of the house where the dog can feel safe and relaxed. If the dog is used to sleeping in a particular spot, try to replicate that environment by providing familiar items, such as a favorite blanket or their toy, to help them settle in.

How to Ensure Dogs Feel Secure When Settling Down for the Night: 

Dogs feel most secure when they have a designated space that’s quiet and comfortable. You can help them feel safe by dimming the lights, keeping the area calm, and making sure it’s free of any potential hazards. 

Some dogs like to have a crate or a specific enclosed area where they can retreat and sleep peacefully. If the dog is nervous or has trouble sleeping, you can try giving them a gentle pat or talking softly to reassure them. The more comfortable the sleeping area, the better rest the dog will get.

12. Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage good behavior in dogs. When a dog does something well, like sitting when asked or being calm during a walk, rewarding them helps reinforce that behavior. 

Dogs learn best when they’re praised or given a treat for doing something right. This makes them more likely to repeat the behavior in the future. Positive reinforcement builds trust between the dog and the sitter, as the dog learns that good things happen when they behave well.

Best Methods for Reinforcing Training: 

Some of the best methods for reinforcing training include:

• Treats: Offering a small treat when the dog does something right is a great way to reward good behavior.
• Praise: Saying words of encouragement like “good boy” or “good girl” can also be a strong reinforcement.
• Affection: Petting or giving belly rubs as a reward helps the dog feel loved and appreciated.
• Toys: If the dog loves toys, giving them a favorite toy after they follow a command or act appropriately can be a great reward. Consistent rewards help the dog learn what’s expected and encourage them to follow the rules.

13. Be Attentive to the Dog’s Health

As a dog sitter, it’s important to be aware of any changes in the dog’s health or behavior. Watch for signs that the dog might not be feeling well, such as a decrease in appetite, changes in energy level, coughing, or limping. 

If the dog shows any unusual symptoms or behaviors, it’s important to let the owner know right away. Early detection of any issues can help prevent more serious health problems.

Keeping a Log of the Dog’s Daily Activities: 

Keeping track of the dog’s activities is helpful for monitoring their health and well-being. Write down what the dog eats, how much exercise they get, and any changes in behavior. If the dog is on medication, note when it’s given and if there are any side effects. 

A daily log helps keep you organized and ensures that the owner has a record of their dog’s routine while they’re away. If anything unusual happens, you’ll have a clear picture to share with the owner.

14. Respect the Dog’s Space

Sometimes, dogs need time alone to rest or relax. If the dog retreats to a quiet spot, it’s important to respect their space and not disturb them. Dogs may feel overwhelmed by too much attention or activity, so giving them time to themselves helps them feel safe and relaxed. 

If the dog shows signs of wanting space, such as retreating to their bed or hiding, don’t push them to interact. Respecting their need for solitude ensures they stay comfortable in your care.

Encouraging Rest and Relaxation Time: 

Dogs, like people, need time to relax and recharge. Encourage the dog to rest by keeping the environment calm and quiet. Provide a comfortable space for them to lie down, and avoid making loud noises or engaging them in too much playtime if they seem tired. A well-rested dog is a happier dog, and this downtime helps them feel secure and balanced while you care for them.

15. Stay Engaged and Interactive

Dogs are naturally curious and energetic, so it’s important to keep them engaged during the day. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. 

You can do this by teaching the dog new tricks, playing interactive games like hide-and-seek or fetch, or providing puzzle toys that challenge their brain. Engaging with the dog regularly helps keep them happy and prevents boredom, which can lead to undesirable behavior.

Safe Toys and Activities to Try: 

When it comes to toys and activities, make sure they’re safe and appropriate for the dog’s age and size. Some safe options include:

• Chew toys to help with teething or just to keep them busy.
• Interactive toys, like treat-dispensing puzzles, which stimulate their mind.
• Fetch toys, like tennis balls or soft frisbees, to encourage play and exercise.
• Training sessions that use positive reinforcement to help the dog learn and grow. Always supervise playtime to make sure the dog is safe, especially with new toys or activities. Keeping the dog entertained and involved makes the experience enjoyable for both of you.

Conclusion

Taking care of a dog while their owners are away is a big responsibility, but it can also be a rewarding experience. By following these 15 tips, you’ll ensure that the dog feels safe, loved, and well-cared for, while also building trust and a positive relationship with both the dog and its owner. Whether you’re a professional dog sitter or a pet owner looking to hire someone, providing a comfortable, secure, and stimulating environment for the dog is key to success.

If you’re looking to improve your dog-sitting business, enhance your marketing strategy, or streamline your client communication, Unleashed Consulting can help. Our expert team specializes in helping pet businesses grow and thrive, from dog training centers to dog sitters, through proven marketing and lead generation strategies. 

Let us help you take your dog-sitting business to the next level.

Contact Unleashed Consulting today to learn how we can help you expand your business, build your client base, and achieve your goals.