A dog sitter looks after your dog in your home (or sometimes pops in for visits). A dog sitter’s job is to keep your dog happy, safe, and on their normal routine while you’re away—and usually keep your home ticking over too. Ideally, your dog sitter will have a DBS certificate and their own insurance. Canine first aid experience is also a good idea for your sitter to have.
Dog sitter
Typical setup:
- They come to your house to feed, walk, play, and keep your dog company
- Or they stay overnight in your home while you’re away
- Your dog keeps their normal routine and sleeps in their own bed
Best for dogs who:
- Get stressed by new places
- Like their routine and familiar smells
- Need meds, special care, or one-on-one attention
Big perks:
Less stress for your dog, no change of environment, more personalised care.
Daily care basics
- Feed your dog at their normal times
- Refresh water and clean bowls
- Walk your dog (once or multiple times a day, depending on what you agree)
- Play and give attention (games, cuddles, mental stimulation)
- Stick to your dog’s routine as closely as possible
Health & safety
- Give medication if your dog needs it
- Keep an eye on behaviour and health (eating, toilet habits, mood, etc.)
- Contact you if anything seems off
- Handle small things like wiping paws, basic grooming, cleaning up accidents
Look after your home (often included)
- Bring in post/parcels
- Take bins out
- Water plants
- Keep the house generally tidy and lived-in
- Make sure doors/windows are locked and the house is secure
There are two common types of dog sitting
- Live-in / house-sitting:
The sitter stays overnight at your home and looks after your dog full-time. - Drop-in visits:
The sitter comes 1–3 times a day (or more) to feed, walk, and spend time with your dog, but doesn’t stay overnight.
Dog Boarder
A dog boarder looks after your dog in their own home (or a boarding facility/kennels).
Typical setup:
- You drop your dog off at their place
- Your dog stays there like a little holiday stay
- They may be with other dogs, depending on the boarder
Best for dogs who:
- Are social and adaptable
- Enjoy being around other dogs
- Are fine in new environments
Big perks: Structured care, constant supervision, often more social time.