I had to raise mine when other sitters started matching them. I believe that some people see perceived value in a higher rate. Depends on the client.

When we board, walks/exercise are included in the service.

Trial and error. My dog does not do well or grains, or even sweet potato, which is in most hypoallergenic dog foods. Also, when changing foods, do it gradually to not upset their stomachs. Once the new food is subbed in, do not give them ANY other food for two weeks to see how they thrive on that food. Also, be careful of serving sizes , as most manufacturers tell you to give too much which will lead to overweight dogs. Try and find a food with less ingredients and more percnetage of one ingredient. Good luck!

Rover gives the you an anonymous phone number which will connect with the sitter immediately.

Definitely concur. It is the scent of the handler that comforts the dog. When dogs come for a stay, I recommend that the owners bring some unwashed socks or an old tshirt to put where the dog sleeps for them to have security and comfort.

YES! Attention, petting, playing, feeding are all things that inspire love and loyalty in dogs. Also, there is a study that all points to having dogs (pets in general) that all the benefits, such as less stress and anxiety, longer life, etc., do not come from their unconditional love towards us, but our act of loving them. So, if you love your dog, you are already winning.

Set up an alarm, hourly if necesary, and take the dog out on the dot. REWARD the dog heavily for going outside.

Depends. If your dog is scratching just before they lie down, they may be creating a more comfortable place for themselves. It may also be a relic from behaviors when they were not domesticated, as other instincts, such as trying to scratch grass onto their waste after they go. If it is not excessive, do not worry. If it is, exercise and toys that will occupy them for long periods of time, such as slow chews or whatever they find interesting.

After the visit, it may prompt you to leave a review.

Depends. Many people have people watch their children when they work at home. If the dog is a puppy and/or very active and needs attention, perhaps not. However, I would spend a long time interviewing them to be ASSURED you feel ok with the arrangement. Good luck!

Yes, as above answer states, get the dog VERY tired if possible before visit. Warn, as you say in your profile, about the dog's disposition. Emphasize the non-agression, vs excitement, in arranging the meet and greet. It may be more prepping the sitter than your dog. Make sure the dogs meet for the first time outside the house, Allow lots of time for the greet and have the dogs walk along side each other outside for a while before entering the house. This is kind of a non-threatening way of introducing them. Good luck!

Trial and error. My dog does not do well or grains, or even sweet potato, which is in most hypoallergenic dog foods. Also, when changing foods, do it gradually to not upset their stomachs. Once the new food is subbed in, do not give them ANY other food for two weeks to see how they thrive on that food. Also, be careful of serving sizes , as most manufacturers tell you to give too much which will lead to overweight dogs. Try and find a food with less ingredients and more percnetage of one ingredient. Good luck!

OUtside, I will cross the street. Otherwise, as they approach, I will say the dog is "not friendly" to ward them off. The dog's comfort matters more than there's, especially if the dog is so uncomfortable, they may be agressive. So, stop them as they approach.

Ignore it. Wait for the dog to be calm and stop whining, and reward them at THAT moment. Also, reward them with a high value treat when they go into the kennel to make it an attractive experience.

Dogs can shiver out of fear. I have observed dogs who shiver during fireworks or other loud noised they are not accustomed too. Soft words and lots of petting will relax them.

Yes, as above, it is hair, so when there is a growth of new hair, the old hair will fall out.

I own a dog and sit dogs. They often try to mate, even same sex. I think it is because they get excited to see a friend or conversely, stressed when a new dog comes to the house and want to be clear on dominance.

My dog stares when he is wanting something, usually food or a walk. When it is close to dinner, he will sit on my husband's lap and stare at me so neither of us can make a move without his knowledge. Never mess with dinner time. So, expectations on their part is my answer.