Choosing the Right Dog Sitter: Key Qualities

As a pet parent, you want to ensure that your pup is in good hands when you’re away, so choosing the right dog sitter 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 match. 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. They are responsible for providing care and attention to dogs when their owners are away, 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. Ideally, they would have experience with your dog’s breed. Whether from owning dogs or working professionally in settings like veterinary clinics, animal shelters, dog daycares, or as a dog walker. Hiring an experienced sitter instills confidence in their ability to handle unexpected situations.

2. 2. Dependability

When leaving your dog in someone else’s care, you need to be sure that they are reliable and dependable. A good sitter should be available when you need them. They should show up on time, follow instructions, and be willing to provide updates and communicate throughout the day. Opting for a dog sitter near you can also minimize commute time. You might ask about their year-round availability for long-term dog care, especially during holidays or planned vacations.

3. 3. Flexibility

If you have dog-sitting needs that vary daily, you’ll want an equally flexible sitter. For instance, you may care for a few hours or overnight, especially if your dog needs regular medication due to illness or if you have a new, untrained puppy. If hiring primarily for dog walking, find someone flexible enough to come on specific days of the week. Discuss your needs with potential sitters to ensure they can accommodate your schedule.

4. 4. Training and Certifications

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 indicate the sitter’s serious commitment to providing the best care for your pup:

• • 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