What Information Should You Leave for a Dog Sitter? Complete Checklist

Leaving your dog with a sitter — a professional or a trusted friend — comes down to one thing: how well you brief them. A confident sitter keeps your dog calm; an underprepared one guesses. Here is the complete checklist of what to leave for a dog sitter, organised so nothing important is forgotten.

Owner and Emergency Contacts

• Your name and mobile number
• A backup contact who knows your dog
• Where you are staying and your return time
• Clear instruction on what to do if you cannot be reached

Vet and Medical Information

• Vet clinic name, address and phone
• Out-of-hours emergency vet (a different number)
• Microchip number and insurance policy number
• Allergies and any ongoing conditions

Feeding

• Food brand and type, exact serving size and times
• Where food is stored
• Foods your dog must not have
• Whether your dog guards food around other animals

Walking and Daily Routine

• Number of walks per day and duration
• Whether your dog can be off lead and recall reliability
• Reactivity notes — other dogs, cyclists, children
• Wake time, nap times and bedtime routine

Medication and Behaviour

• Medication name, dose, timing and how to give it
• How your dog reacts to strangers
• Where your dog hides or settles when stressed
• Commands your dog knows and responds to

Household Notes

• Location of leads, treats and poo bags
• How to lock up, alarm code and key return
• Neighbour's contact if you cannot be reached

Frequently Asked Questions

What information does a dog sitter need?

Your contact details, a backup contact, vet and emergency vet, feeding instructions, walking routine, medication schedule and behaviour notes.

Should I leave written instructions?

Always. Verbal instructions are easily forgotten. A printed sheet can be referred to at any time.

How do I prepare my dog for a sitter?

Introduce them before your trip if you can, so your dog associates the sitter with something positive rather than your absence.