How to Pet Sit a Dog

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Leash
Collar
Food
Water
Toys

Step 1:
Talk to the owners to find out how long you're going to need to pet sit. It's important to ensure your schedule fits that time frame so they aren't left with a few days to cover with someone else. Their dog will be happier with a consistent caregiver.
Step 2:
Introduce the dog to your house while he's still on the leash. This way you can control him as he sniffs and explores. It's also important that you enter the house first, to show your dominance and the fact that the dog is entering your territory. Don't leave the dog in your yard unattended. Some dogs panic without their masters and may try to dig their way out of your yard.
Step 3:
Set a schedule for feeding and walking that reflects the schedule used by the owners. This helps to maintain the dog's rhythm and can prevent "accidents" on your rug. If you can't come close to replicating the feeding and walking schedule, you might not be the one to care for this pet.
Step 4:
Keep emergency contact information on hand. You should have the telephone number of wherever the owners are staying, their cell phone numbers, the number of the dog's veterinarian and the number of an emergency animal hospital. Get a list and schedule for any medications if the dog is taking any.
Step 5:
If you have dogs or other pets of your own, minimize the chances for a fight. This means socializing the animals in a controlled environment prior to letting them have more independence in the house.
Step 6:
Discipline the dog as the owners would. Ask whether there are particular behaviors they discourage so that you can be on the lookout for them. This way the dog won't digress and forget some of his training.

Tips & Warnings

Keep a stock of treats and food at your home if you end up having to sit for a dog regularly.

More Puppy Pages

How to Leash Train Dogs and Puppies

How many times have you seen a dog out on a walk that is pulling and tugging on his owner unmercifully? With your dog or puppy, the best way to avoid this problem is to properly leash train the animal. After all, dogs are not born understanding how to...

A house with a white picket fence, kids and dogs playing in the yard, that's the American Dream, right? Maybe at your house the dream is a little skewed because your dog is scared of your kids, or isn't crazy about interacting with them. Here are some...

You love taking your two dogs for walks, and they love to exercise while the three of you check out the neighborhood. Sometimes they love walking so much, they yank you all over the sidewalk and street to get a closer look at the squirrels, your...

Pet sitting for a friend is quite different from just running an errand or doing a favor for the friend. This situation could make or break the friendship. Use the following tips to learn how to keep the friendship and take excellent care of little...

Many dog owners consider their pet to be a member of their family. Deciding to add a dog to your family is a big responsibility and commitment that should not be taken lightly. It is a good idea to allow your child to have smaller pets first, such as...