9 Common Traits of Top-Notch Dog Sitters

Everyone wants a professional dog sitter, but how can you tell if your sitter is a top-tier candidate? We've whipped up a checklist to help you scope out the best local dog sitters near you. Here are some things you should look for when searching for a dog sitter.

Responsiveness is essential when depending on a dog sitter. Every pet parent wants to keep an open line of communication with their sitter when they’re away.

If you've booked a local dog sitter with Wag!, you can use the handy chat feature in the app to stay in touch with your sitter. You'll receive photo and video updates, as well as a detailed report card of your pet's stay, so you can rest easy knowing your pooch is in good paws.

Related: How Often Should You Send Pet Parents Updates?

Every dog has different physical and emotional needs. Some breeds need more exercise to combat energetic outbursts or health problems, whereas others can't handle long walks.

The best dog sitters will draw on their experience to cater to your dog's unique needs. But they'll also ask questions when needed to ensure your pup receives the best "pawssible" care.

The last thing you want is to miss a flight because the sitter is running late, so choose a dog sitter with a proven track record of showing up on time. Read reviews from other pet parents to determine their ability to keep appointments.

Like kids, dogs require a lot of patience — especially puppies and high-energy dogs. Professional dog sitters will be patient but consistent with dogs of all ages and activity levels.

While the best pet sitters know the importance of patience, it's also up to you to provide a detailed pet care plan. This ensures your sitter can provide the care your pup needs. Be sure to include info like:

• which commands your dog knows
• whether they struggle with certain commands
• their general temperament and behavior
• their triggers
• what motivates them (treats, praise, exercise, etc.)
• their usual routine (include times for meals, sleep, and potty breaks)
  

Scratches and bumps happen all the time, especially if you have a very active dog. When interviewing dog sitters, ask them if they know the basics of first aid for dogs. Keep a first aid kit handy for them to use if they run into a minor pet injury during the dog sitting service. 

Administering meds to dogs is challenging. A top-notch sitter will know how to give medications, from injections to pills. Even if your dog doesn’t have a chronic condition, your dog sitter should have experience administering medications.

While not all sitters have experience giving meds, they should show an interest in learning how to do it correctly and make sure your pup stays on their schedule.   

A top-notch sitter will always respect your wishes regarding your pup and your home. Whether you ask that they not give your dog human food or ask them not to let the dog on the furniture, they'll make sure your wishes are fulfilled. This simple sign of respect is so important when depending on someone to care for your pet.

A sitter with a high energy level is essential for active dogs. The best pet sitters will be able to keep up with your dog on walks and during playtime.

A top-notch dog sitter is as trustworthy as they come. You’re leaving your fur-baby with them, so trust is absolutely paramount. Personal and professional references are invaluable when determining if a prospective sitter is a trustworthy one.

Wag! knows how crucial trust is when leaving your pup with a stranger. That's why we perform a background check on all Pet Caregivers before allowing them on our platform.

Dogs do silly and sometimes downright gross stuff — a sense of humor is needed to get through the day. Plus, it’s always nice to have someone who can keep you laughing!

You’re already here! The dog sitters on the Wag! platform have been thoroughly vetted to ensure they’re suitable for your pup. Whether you're going away for the night or taking a few weeks to decompress, sitters on the Wag! platform are happy to keep your dog (or cat!) company while you're away.  

Head over to our dog sitting home page for more information about Wag! overnight services and get in contact with a top-notch sitter near you!