Blog Post Categories
What to Ask a Dogsitter Before Booking
As a new pet owner you may be unsure about what to ask a dogsitter when you interview them and before making a booking for your petsitting assignment. Read on to learn our suggestions on how to prepare for a dogsitter interview and the questions to ask them to be sure you are making the right choice for your dogsit assignment.
The Meaning and Importance of a Dogsitting Assignment
Leaving your dog in someone else’s hands, even for a day, can stir up more nerves than you expected. Dogs aren’t just pets—they’re family. And choosing the right sitter isn’t about picking someone who happens to like animals. It’s about finding someone who understands your dog’s specific quirks, needs, and routines, and who can handle everything from feeding time to freak-outs with calm confidence.
You’re not being overprotective. You’re being responsible. The right dog sitter can keep your pup happy, safe, and stress-free while you’re away—but only if you ask the right questions before handing over the leash. Here are some important questions to ask potential dog sitters so you can make a smart choice that leaves both you and your dog feeling secure.
Comfortable with Pet Playdates, or Prefer Solo dog minding?
Photo by Photo by Aishu gowda
One of the first things to ask a potential sitter is how they feel about social time for your dog. Some pups thrive when they get to hang out with other dogs at the park or during neighborhood strolls. Others do best with calm, quiet companionship. And some just aren’t fans of strangers—two-legged or four-legged.
If you know your dog enjoys canine company, it’s important to ask if the sitter is comfortable organizing or supervising pet play dates. These meetups aren’t just for fun; they’re important for socialization and mental stimulation. But they also require a sitter who can read dog body language, recognize when play is getting too rough, and know when to intervene.
Not every sitter is up for that. Some prefer to keep their charges separated from other animals to reduce the risk of conflict or overstimulation. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—but you’ll want to know their stance ahead of time, especially if you have an energetic dog who lives for romping with pals.
What is your Approach to Dog Treats and Allergies?
This might be the most important question you ask—because what goes into your dog’s mouth can seriously impact their health. A responsible sitter should understand the difference between a harmless reward and a risky snack, especially if your dog has significant allergies or food sensitivities. If your dog has known allergies or intolerances, they need a sitter who takes that seriously—not someone who gives a little “just this once” snack that could trigger a reaction.
You want someone who appreciates the benefits of simple, clean options like freeze-dried liver treats and who aren’t just going to feed them a generic dog treat from the grocery store. These are a great example of a treat that’s both high-value and easy to digest. They’re single-ingredient, which makes them safer for dogs with food issues, and their flavor usually earns a gold star from even the pickiest pups. Ask if the sitter brings their own treats, uses yours, or is open to following a specific protocol.
Every dog is different. A senior Shih Tzu with arthritis doesn’t need the same kind of care as a high-strung Border Collie who wants to herd the furniture. That’s why experience matters—and not just in a general “I’ve had dogs all my life” kind of way. And this will affect what you ask a dogsitter to do to for your pet.
Photo by pankaj gosai
Ask the sitter what kinds of dogs they’ve worked with in the past. Have they handled reactive dogs? Senior dogs with medications? Puppies with selective hearing and a taste for your socks? Their answers will help you gauge whether they’re equipped to manage the kind of behavior your dog might throw at them.
How do you Handle Big Emergencies or Health Issues?
No one wants to think about their dog getting sick or hurt while they’re away—but it’s better to ask a dogsitter in advance how they might cope, better than to assume everything will go smoothly. A sitter’s response to this question can tell you a lot about their level of professionalism.
Start with the basics: do they know where your closest vet is located? Are they comfortable administering medication if needed? Do they have a clear plan for emergencies, including how to reach you and when to take action? Even something as minor as a scraped paw or upset stomach can feel like a big deal when you’re not home.
Will You Keep my Dog’s Routine, or Make Your Own?
Dogs love routine. They don’t care if it’s Tuesday or Saturday, but they know when it’s walk time, mealtime, or time to snuggle on the couch. A sitter who understands and respects your dog’s schedule is doing more than just being thoughtful—they’re helping your dog stay calm and confident while you’re away. Be careful when you ask a dogsitter to care for your pet that you are clear about your dog’s routine.
Ask potential sitters how they handle schedules. Do they try to replicate your routine exactly? Are they open to using your feeding chart, walk schedule, or training cues? Will they keep your dog on their usual bathroom schedule—even if that means an early morning outing?
Final Thoughts on What to Ask a Dogsitter Before They Care for Your Canine
Some sitters might want to adjust things slightly for practical reasons, especially if they’re watching multiple pets. That’s okay—as long as they’re transparent about it and work with you to find a plan that keeps your dog’s world predictable.
Prepare a number of questions you want to ask a dogsitter before the interview. Essentially prepare for your dogsitter interview and gather your questions, ensuring what you are asking is always appropriate and will give you the information you need to find the best dogsitter for you.
