All of my pets have received lots of love and my attention when I'm with them. I talk to them, ("Good boy" or "good girl"...."where's your toy/baby". I like to encourage them to play with me but keep it "easy". If I'm house sitting where there is a fenced in yard, and I know he or she enjoys playing fetch, I'm into that too. I try to be as consistent as possible with feeding times. I would definitely spend time with their "parent" to learn about what their dog likes to do, what commands they respond to, and where they allow their pet to be (the couch, etc) for down time and sleeping. I am also very conscientious about cleaning up during a walkies, keeping things tidy in the home. I do not share my food with dogs. Their "diet" is important to their health. If they are allowed special treats (milk bone, etc.) I would inquire about how often/when that is appropriate unless the "parent" tells me to use my own judgement. I'm very good at following directions with regards to pet care, watering plants (in door/out door) retrieving mail, etc, when house sitting. I have no criminal record and am very responsible.