5 things to check before leaving your dog with a sitter

Finding a pet sitter you trust takes a bit of work upfront. Here is what to check before you commit.

1. Read the reviews properly

Star ratings are a start but the written reviews tell you more. Look for specific details about how the sitter communicated, how the dog was when picked up, and how any problems were handled. A few detailed reviews are worth more than a lot of empty five stars.

2. Meet in person first

A good sitter will always meet you and your dog before the first booking. Watch how they interact, what questions they ask, and whether they seem genuinely interested. If they rush through it, that tells you something.

3. Ask about your breed specifically

Different dogs need different handling. Ask directly whether they have looked after your breed before and what they do if a dog pulls on the lead or gets anxious. Their answer will tell you a lot more than their bio.

4. Check the setup

If your dog is staying overnight, ask about the home. Is there a fenced garden? Are there other dogs? Where does your dog sleep? A good sitter will have clear answers and will probably offer photos without being asked.

5. Agree on updates

Ask how often they will check in. A quick photo mid walk or a short message at the end of the day makes a big difference. If they look at you blankly when you ask this, keep looking.