I think it’s so important to know as a sitter, if a dog has any particular triggers or behaviors that are out of the ordinary. This can range from behavior toward the mail men or delivery drivers, or just cars in general. Some triggers or stressors can include not liking pets in certain areas, or if a dog is prone to resource guarding just so I can be prepared and treat accordingly. For example, my dog hates feet above all else, and gets very stressed if she’s near feet, or if she’s been pet and someone touches her feet. She is very well trained, and not reactive, but I think it’s important to know these things ahead of time just to make sure every dog is comfortable.

I love taking dogs I sit for on runs, well mainly the very active dogs who need to burn off some energy. As long as the owners confirm that it is safe and okay for them to have, I’ve taken them to get pup cups. I would obviously never do this without checking and verifying with the owners first. My dog loves pup cups and I make sure that they are a very rare treat. I love just a came of fetch, with a frisbee or tennis ball. My dog is seriously obsessed with frisbees, even though she does have a habit of chewing them up, they’re her favorite game after a walk. I have met some rather introverted dogs too, who don’t particularly enjoy long walks or very active games more than occasionally. So in my experience they are more content with just hanging out on my lap or just getting some pets with the tv on, and I am of course ready to treat every dog accordingly and not force them out of their shell with activities or games they don’t prefer.