The Ultimate Dog Sitter Checklist

Along with our ultimate pet sitter checklist, this dog sitter checklist offers practical guidance to help you confidently prepare both your dog and your trusted sitter—whether they’re new to your home or a familiar face. While no list can cover every unique situation, we’ve designed this guide to be as thorough and actionable as possible. Let’s get started!

Dog Care Checklist

Exercise & Playtime

  • When should your dog be walked?
  • How long should each walk be?
  • How much playtime do they need each day?
  • What time should they be woken up?
  • What’s their bedtime routine?
  • Do they follow a specific training schedule?
  • Do they need quiet, alone time during the day?
  • How reliable is their recall? Include clear instructions about off-leash access.

Your Dog’s Personality

  • Do they have any known behavioral concerns (e.g., separation anxiety, reactivity)?
  • What helps calm them down (e.g., certain toys, music, a specific blanket)?
  • How do they interact with other animals?
  • Are they comfortable off-leash in safe, designated areas?
  • What are their favorite toys or comfort items?
  • Do they respond positively to background music or sound cues?
  • Are there sounds, objects, or situations they dislike or avoid?
  • Do any household items trigger unwanted behavior (e.g., vacuum cleaners, doorbells)?
  • How do they behave around unfamiliar people—and especially children?
  • Are there any lesser-known quirks your sitter should know (e.g., fear of stairs, preference for certain sleeping spots)?
  • Which areas of the house are they allowed to access?
  • When—and where—are they permitted outdoors?
  • Are they allowed on furniture like beds or sofas?

Health, Well-being & Medical Records

  • Are any vet visits, grooming appointments, or wellness check-ups scheduled during the sit?
  • Up-to-date immunization records
  • Complete medical history (including chronic conditions or past injuries)
  • Microchip registration details and contact information
  • Pet insurance card and policy documentation
  • A recent, clear photo of your dog showing distinguishing features (e.g., markings, ear shape)
  • Your primary contact information—and at least one backup emergency contact
  • Your veterinarian’s name, phone number, and address
  • Notify your vet in advance that a FurPetVo sitter will be managing your dog’s care
  • Provide payment authorization for urgent care so your sitter doesn’t pay out of pocket
  • Medication details: purpose, dosage, timing, administration method (e.g., pill with food, topical application)
A person reviewing a digital checklist on a tablet while sitting beside a relaxed terrier mix on a sunlit living room floor

House Rules Checklist

Emergencies

  • Emergency vet clinic name, phone number, and turn-by-turn directions
  • Your home emergency contact (e.g., neighbor or relative) with phone number
  • Spare set of keys left with that contact—and confirmation that your FurPetVo sitter knows how to access them
  • Clear instructions for what to do if your dog goes missing or has an accident
  • Common hiding spots or favorite outdoor areas where your dog might retreat
  • Details about any home security systems (arming/disarming steps, alarm codes)
  • Information about parking availability and access
  • Process for reimbursing essential expenses (e.g., emergency vet fees)—include preferred method (bank transfer, app, etc.)

Day-to-Day House Knowledge

  • Garbage and recycling collection days and sorting rules
  • Location of food waste bin (if applicable)
  • Wi-Fi router location and password
  • Whether the sitter may use household vehicles—and how fuel or toll costs will be covered
  • Location of the main electrical panel and basic safety instructions
  • Instructions for using key appliances (oven, washer, dishwasher, etc.)
  • Where appliance manuals are stored
  • Location of spare keys—and whether the sitter is authorized to use them
  • Any “house quirks” (e.g., a sticky drawer, a door that must be propped open, motion-sensor lights)
  • Plant watering schedule and special care needs (e.g., toxic plants to keep out of reach)
  • Your preference for mail or package handling
  • Swimming pool maintenance responsibilities (if applicable)
  • Communication expectations: Do you prefer daily photo updates, brief text summaries, or minimal check-ins?
  • Policy on sitter visitors (e.g., friends, family)
  • End-of-sit arrangements: Who cleans up? When should keys be returned? Any final walkthrough expectations?

Prepare Your Dog for Their Sitter

Helping your dog feel secure with their new caregiver is just as important as organizing paperwork and supplies. Even sociable dogs benefit from thoughtful preparation:

  • Invite friends or family over in the weeks before the sit to reinforce comfort with new people in your home
  • Arrange an in-person meet-and-greet between your dog and the FurPetVo sitter before your departure
  • Maintain positive, low-key interactions whenever sitters visit—even for short practice stays
  • Ensure your dog is up to date on flea, tick, and worm prevention
  • Schedule a pre-sit grooming session (nail trim, bath, brushing, de-matting if needed)
  • Double-check vaccinations and microchip registration are current
  • Use a calming pheromone diffuser in common areas starting a few days before the sit
  • Leave a worn t-shirt or soft blanket with your scent in their bed
  • Keep departures calm and uneventful—avoid prolonged goodbyes or visible stress
A Golden Retriever resting calmly on a rug between two smiling adults, illustrating trust and comfort during a sitter introduction

Prepare Your Home for Your Dog Sitter

Before your FurPetVo sitter arrives, take time to ensure your home is welcoming, safe, and fully equipped:

Dog Supplies to Stock

  • Dog shampoo and soap
  • Soft towels
  • Dog toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Grooming brush or comb
  • Food (portioned and labeled)
  • Treats (including any dietary-specific options)
  • Poop bags
  • Prescribed medication with clear dosing instructions
  • Leash, collar, and harness
  • Bed and bedding (washable if possible)
  • Favorite toys and comfort items
  • Pet carrier (if needed for transport)
  • ID tags with current contact info

Cleaning Supplies to Have On Hand

  • Bleach or pet-safe disinfectant
  • Toilet cleaning supplies
  • Disinfectant sprays
  • Antibacterial surface cleaners
  • Washing-up liquid
  • Dishwasher tablets
  • Duster and vacuum cleaner
  • Hand soap (refilled in all bathrooms and kitchen)

The Day-Before-Sit Checklist

  • Give your home a thorough clean—including floors, pet areas, and high-touch surfaces
  • Remove all trash and perishable food to prevent odors or pests
  • Clear space in a closet or bathroom so your sitter can unpack comfortably
  • Test Wi-Fi connectivity and note the network name/password visibly (e.g., on the fridge)
  • Secure hazardous items: yard chemicals, rodent bait, human medications, chocolate, and small choking hazards
  • Close and label off-limits rooms with a friendly note
  • Inspect and seal potential escape routes (e.g., gaps in fencing, unlocked attic or basement doors)
  • Verify all gates and doors latch securely
  • If you have a pet flap, confirm it’s functional and properly adjusted