Choosing the Right Dog Sitter: Key Qualities

As a pet parent, ensuring your pup is in good hands when you’re away is crucial for your peace of mind and your dog’s well-being. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect dog or puppy sitter. In this article, we’ll cover the key qualities to look for in dog sitters near you so you can make an informed decision and find the best possible care for your pup.

Before diving into the qualities to look for, it’s important to first define the responsibilities of a dog sitter. A professional pet sitter provides comprehensive care and attention to your dog when you’re not around, which includes the following:

• • Provide food and water to the dog at appropriate times
  • Take the dog for regular walks and provide exercise and playtime
  • Ensure the dog’s safety and security at all times
  • Keep the dog’s living area clean and tidy
  • Provide companionship and socialization to the dog
  • Monitor the dog’s behavior and health, and report any concerns to the owner
  • Administer any necessary medications or treatments as directed by the owner

What should I look for in a dog sitter?

1. 1. Experience with Dogs

Your dog sitter should be comfortable with various breeds, sizes, ages, and temperaments of dogs and understand their needs, behaviors, and preferences. Whether you’re seeking an experienced sitter with extensive background experience or a professional pet sitter, hiring someone with the right experience ensures they can handle unexpected situations and provide exceptional care.

2. 2. Dependability

When leaving your dog in someone else’s care, you need to be sure they are reliable. Look for 5-star pet sitters near you who have a track record of dependability. A primary sitter should be available when you need them, follow instructions meticulously, and offer peace of mind knowing your dog is in good hands. Background-checked pet sitters provide an extra layer of trustworthiness, ensuring they meet the highest safety standards. You might ask about their year-round availability for long-term dog care, especially during holidays or planned vacations.

3. 3. Flexibility

If your needs are unpredictable, for example if you need puppy-sitting, you’ll want a sitter who can accommodate your schedule. Whether you need overnight care or just a few hours of attention, a full-time pet sitter can offer the flexibility required. This is especially important for puppy care, where regular potty breaks and walking services are essential. Nearby sitters can also minimize commute time, making them a convenient option for busy pet parents.

4. 4. Training and Certifications

While not mandatory, hiring a sitter with training and certifications is a bonus.  While it’s not a requirement for dog sitters to have formal training or certifications, it can be an added bonus. Look for those who have taken courses or earned certifications in dog behavior, dog training, pet first aid, or other relevant areas. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to providing the best care of dogs and can be particularly reassuring if your dog has medical needs.

• • Pet Sitters International Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS) – This certification requires completion of an online course and passing an exam covering topics such as pet care, health and safety, and business management.

• • National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) Certification – This certification requires passing an exam covering pet health and nutrition, behavior, and business practices.

• • International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) – This organization offers a variety of certifications for dog professionals, including dog sitter certification.

• • Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) – While not specific to dog sitting, this certification is highly respected in the dog training community. It may demonstrate a dog sitter’s commitment to continued education and professional development.

5. 5. Positive Reviews and Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a good dog sitter is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your veterinarian. You can also check online reviews from other pet owners who have used the dog sitter’s services.

Dog sitter-finding websites like UrbanSitter show individual pet sitter profiles with public customer reviews and ratings and have strict trust and safety standards. You can also ask potential sitters to provide professional and personal references when you interview them. Always call references and ask many questions to probe for any red flags or concerns. 

Related: How to Find Pet Sitters Near Me