Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Pet Sitter: A Must-Ask Checklist

Leaving your dog in someone else’s care—even for a short time—can be nerve-wracking. Whether you're heading out for a vacation, a work trip, or just need an extra set of hands, hiring a professional pet sitter ensures your pup stays safe, happy, and well-cared for.

But not all pet sitters are created equal. How do you know if the one you're hiring is the right fit? Before handing over the leash, here’s a checklist of must-ask questions to make sure your dog is in the best hands.

The Essential Questions to Ask a Pet Sitter

1. What Experience Do You Have with Dogs?

Not all pet sitters have the same level of experience. Ask:

1. How long have you been a pet sitter?

2. Do you have experience with dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments?

3. Have you cared for dogs with special needs, anxiety, or medical conditions?

🚨 Red Flag: If they hesitate or only have experience with certain types of pets (like cats or small dogs), they may not be the best fit for your pup.

2. Are You Trained in Pet First Aid & CPR?

Emergencies can happen. A qualified pet sitter should be prepared for any situation, including injuries, choking, or allergic reactions.

✔ A great answer: “Yes, I’m certified in pet first aid and CPR.”

🚨 Red Flag: If they’re unfamiliar with basic emergency care, they may not be equipped to handle unexpected situations.

3. Can You Provide References or Reviews?

Reputable pet sitters should have a history of happy clients. Ask for references from past customers or check online reviews.

✔ Good signs: A pet sitter who can provide testimonials, has a professional website, or is recommended on platforms like Rover, Wag, or local pet sitter networks.

🚨 Red Flag: No references, no online presence, and vague responses about past experience.

4. Are You Insured and Bonded?

Professional pet sitters should carry liability insurance and bonding to cover accidents, injuries, or property damage.

🚨 Red Flag: If they don’t have insurance, you could be liable for anything that happens while they’re in your home.

5. What Services Do You Offer?

Some pet sitters provide overnight stays, while others only do drop-in visits or dog walking. Make sure they offer what you need.

✔ Ask about:

1. Walks & exercise time

2. Feeding routines

3. Medication administration

4. Overnight stays vs. daily visits

5. Playtime and enrichment activities

🚨 Red Flag: If they have limited availability or can’t accommodate your dog’s specific needs, they may not be the right match.

6. How Do You Handle Emergencies?

A good pet sitter should have a plan in case something goes wrong.

✔ Ask:

1. What would you do if my dog gets sick or injured?

2. Do you have a backup sitter in case you can’t make it?

3. How will you communicate with me while I’m away?

🚨 Red Flag: If they don’t have a clear emergency plan, it could lead to major issues if something happens while you’re gone.

7. What’s Your Approach to Dog Behavior & Training?

Every dog has a unique personality, and your sitter should know how to handle different behaviors.

✔ Ask:

1. How do you handle a dog that pulls on the leash?

2. What would you do if my dog doesn’t eat or seems anxious?

3. Are you comfortable reinforcing my dog’s training routines?

🚨 Red Flag: If they use outdated training techniques (like dominance-based methods) or seem unfamiliar with positive reinforcement, they might not be the best fit.

8. Will We Have a Meet & Greet Before the Booking?

A trial meeting is non-negotiable. Your sitter should meet your dog beforehand to ensure they get along.

✔ A meet & greet lets you:

1. Observe how they interact with your dog.

2. Walk through feeding and care routines.

3. Discuss house rules (where the leash is, off-limits areas, emergency contacts, etc.).

🚨 Red Flag: If they refuse to meet before the job, they might not be professional or reliable.

How to Prepare Your Dog for a Pet Sitter

Once you’ve found the perfect sitter, it’s time to set them (and your pup) up for success.

1. Establish a Routine Before You Leave

Dogs thrive on routine. Keep feeding times, walks, and playtime as normal as possible leading up to your departure.

2. Provide a Pet Care Guide

Leave your sitter with a document that includes:

1. Feeding schedule & portion sizes

2. Walk/playtime preferences

3. Vet contact info

4. Medication instructions (if needed)

5. Your emergency contact info

3. Leave Comfort Items

Being away from you can be stressful for your dog. Leave familiar items like:

✔ Their favorite bed or blanket

✔ A T-shirt with your scent

✔ Puzzle toys or treats to keep them busy

4. Set Clear House Rules

Make sure the sitter knows what’s allowed and what’s not. Example:

✔ "My dog is allowed on the couch, but not in my bedroom."

✔ "No human food—he has a sensitive stomach!"

5. Test a Short Trial Run

If possible, have your sitter come for a short visit before the big day. A short walk or feeding session can help your dog get comfortable before you leave for an extended time.

Choosing a pet sitter isn’t just about convenience—it’s about making sure your dog is safe, happy, and cared for while you’re away. By asking the right questions and preparing your dog for the transition, you can make the experience stress-free for everyone.

Because nothing feels better than knowing your pup is in good hands while you’re gone.

For more tips on your pet’s health, check out Bark Times.