Don’t Hire a Dog Sitter Without Asking These 20 Questions

Hiring the right dog sitter can make all the difference for your pet’s comfort and safety while you’re away. It’s not just about availability—it’s about the sitter’s ability to handle various situations. To find the perfect match, you need to ask the right questions. Here are 20 essential questions to ask any potential dog sitter to ensure they’ll treat your dog like family.

What is your experience with dogs?

You need to understand a sitter’s background with different breeds, sizes, and temperaments to help you gauge their ability to manage your dog’s unique personality. Ask about past jobs or volunteer work with animals, and if they have certifications, like pet CPR or training expertise, that is even better.

How will you handle emergencies?

Emergencies can happen, from sudden illness to injury. A good sitter should have a plan for these situations, including knowing the nearest veterinary hospital and having experience administering first aid. Make sure they’re equipped to act quickly if something unexpected occurs.

Will you be staying overnight or just visiting during the day?

Determine the level of care your dog will receive. Some sitters offer round-the-clock care, while others only provide visits throughout the day. Depending on your dog’s needs, you may prefer someone who will be there overnight to provide more attention, especially for dogs with separation anxiety.

How do you handle behavioral issues?

Dogs can sometimes act out when their owners are away. Ask how the sitter manages situations like barking, destructive behavior, or aggression. Their response will give you an idea of their patience, creativity, and approach to training and discipline.  

What is your plan for exercise and playtime?

A dog needs regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. Make sure the sitter plans to provide enough exercise, including walks, playtime, and mental stimulation, tailored to your dog’s energy level and breed. Check how they balance downtime and activity.

Are you comfortable administering medication?

If your dog has specific health needs, knowing whether the sitter can handle them is very important. Ask about their experience with giving pills, using inhalers, or administering injections. Ensure they’re prepared to follow your instructions exactly when it comes to medication schedules.

How do you communicate with pet owners?

Good communication is key. Some sitters provide regular updates with photos or videos, while others prefer a simple text or phone call. Set expectations for how often you want to hear from them and through what medium—whether it’s daily updates or just in case of an issue.

Will my dog be the only one in your care?

You’ll want to know if your dog will be getting individual attention or sharing the sitter’s time with other pets. If they’re caring for multiple dogs, find out how they manage their time and ensure your pet gets the care and supervision they need.

What do you do if my dog shows signs of anxiety?

For dogs who suffer from separation anxiety, they can have a lot of trouble when their owners are away. Ask the sitter how they will handle signs of stress or anxiety in your dog and if they have techniques or calming strategies to keep your dog comfortable and relaxed.

What will you do if my dog refuses to eat?

Dogs can sometimes stop eating when their routine is disrupted. A good sitter will know how to coax a dog back into eating or at least ensure they’re hydrated. Find out how they’ll handle picky eating and what steps they’ll take if your dog loses appetite.

How will you keep my home secure while I’m gone?

Since your sitter will likely have access to your home, ask about their routine to keep it secure. Do they know how to work the alarm system? Will they collect your mail, water plants, or bring in packages to avoid giving signs that you’re away?

Will you be bringing other people to the house?

Clarify if they’ll have any visitors or assistants over while they’re watching your dog. Some sitters may work in pairs, while others prefer solitude. Make sure you’re comfortable with their answer, especially when your dog isn’t great around new people.

Do you offer a meet-and-greet before the booking?

A trial meeting can help ensure that the sitter is a good fit for your dog. Ask if they’re willing to do a meet-and-greet session to assess how well your dog bonds with them. This also gives you a chance to discuss any final details in person.

How will you deal with extreme weather conditions?

If a heatwave, snowstorm, or severe weather hits while you’re away, it’s essential to know how the sitter plans to adjust their routine. Inquire about their strategies for keeping your dog comfortable, whether it’s cutting back on walks in the heat or providing extra shelter in the cold.

Do you have references from other clients?

A trustworthy sitter should have references or online reviews from past clients. Ask for contacts of previous pet owners they’ve worked with so you can verify their reliability, experience, and overall satisfaction. That way, you can get an idea of the service you will be getting from them.

Will you follow my dog’s specific feeding schedule and dietary restrictions?

If your dog has a specific diet, the sitter must adhere to it strictly. Make sure they understand any allergies, portion sizes, or treats your dog should or shouldn’t have so there are no accidental deviations from the usual routine.

Do you have your own transportation?

Your sitter needs reliable transportation in case of an emergency or even just to pick up supplies. Ask if they have a car and are prepared to take your dog somewhere if needed, like to the vet or a park for exercise.

How do you handle aggression or fights between dogs?

Suppose the sitter will be around other dogs—during walks or in social settings—it’s important to know how they’ll handle altercations or aggressive behavior. Make sure they’re equipped to manage fights safely and are knowledgeable about reading dog body language.

Are you familiar with my dog’s breed?

The needs of a dog differ from breed to breed in terms of exercise, behavior, and health. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s a bonus if your sitter has specific experience with your dog’s breed and knows about their unique characteristics and requirements.

How do you handle bathroom breaks and accidents inside the house?

For dogs with inconsistent bathroom habits or those that are still being potty trained, ask how the sitter will manage bathroom breaks and accidents. This ensures that they’ll take the right preventative measures and have a plan to clean up messes quickly and effectively.