I always ask how dogs typically react in a handful of settings: on leash, around meal time, while playing, and in the home. It is important to know if dogs are leash reactive to other dogs, prone to chase critters, particular about who is around at meal time, etc. I have also found it helpful to ask about what the dog’s typical day is like (e.g., walk times) so I can try to keep their routine as similar as possible when their pawrent is away.

I love to start out by taking pups on a route their owner tells me they know and love - then, if we have more than a few days together it’s always fun to see a dog explore a new trail! I’m always out hiking and walking, regardless of if I’m dogsitting, so I get to know trails and walking routes really well.