Leaving your puppy in someone else’s care—especially in your home—can be a nerve-wracking experience. Puppies require constant attention, consistent training, and a safe, structured environment. Whether you’re away for a weekend or an extended trip, choosing the right housesitter is essential to your peace of mind and your puppy’s well-being. Here’s what to look for when hiring a housesitter to care for your puppy.
1. Experience with Puppies
Not all pet sitters are created equal. A person who’s great with adult dogs may not be prepared for the demands of a young, energetic, and sometimes destructive puppy. Look for someone with specific experience caring for puppies—ideally someone who understands teething behavior, basic training, and how to manage accidents indoors. Ask candidates about their experience and comfort level with dogs under six months old.
2. Training and Discipline Approach
Puppies are in a critical stage of development, and consistency is key. If you’ve started potty training or teaching basic commands like “sit” and “stay,” your housesitter should be willing to reinforce those lessons. Discuss your training style and expectations clearly. Choose someone who uses positive reinforcement techniques and will follow your guidelines rather than implementing their own methods.
3. Availability and Attention
Puppies need frequent potty breaks, regular feeding schedules, playtime, and supervision to prevent chewing or other destructive behavior. Your housesitter should have the time and flexibility to provide this level of care. Ideally, they should stay in your home full-time during your absence or be able to visit several times a day if not staying overnight.
4. References and Reviews
Always ask for references or reviews from previous clients, especially those who had puppies. Look for feedback that mentions reliability, communication, and attentiveness. If the sitter is part of a professional platform or service, check their profile for verified reviews and background checks.
5. Comfort With Your Home
Since the sitter will be staying in your home, it’s important that they are respectful, clean, and comfortable in your space. Set clear expectations about what areas are off-limits, security protocols, and how to handle emergencies. A reliable sitter should ask questions about your home setup, not just your puppy.
6. Emergency Preparedness
Ask how the sitter would handle emergencies, such as your puppy getting sick or injured. They should know the location of your vet and be able to recognize signs of distress. Leave written instructions with emergency contacts, medical history, and your puppy’s routine. A responsible sitter will appreciate the detail and be ready to act if needed.
7. Meet and Greet
Before making a final decision, arrange a meet-and-greet between your puppy and the potential sitter. Watch how they interact. A good sitter will be patient, gentle, and engaging with your pup—and your puppy should respond positively in return.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right housesitter for your puppy takes time and attention to detail, but it’s well worth the effort. Look for someone with hands-on puppy experience, who can offer full attention, follow your training methods, and communicate clearly while you’re away. With the right sitter, you can travel confidently, knowing your puppy is in safe and caring hands.
