Q&A for How to Dog Sit

One of the most important things is to wait for the dog to come to you. Just give it time to get comfortable. Don't impose yourself on the dog by trying to handle it right away, and don't stare at it. Just act in a way that feels natural and calm.

They are more likely to be anxious in an unfamiliar location. Try to get them used to your presence by letting them sniff your hand and playing with them or taking them for a walk. Make sure you pay close attention to them around the house because they may destroy things due to the anxiety.

Usually dogsitting is done at the home of the owner, not your own home, so there would be no reason for the dog to meet the cat. If you were to bring the dog to your own house, you would have to either keep the animals separate or introduce them very carefully. See How to Introduce Dogs to Cats .

Keep tabs on both of them and make sure you know what they are doing at all times. Two dogs can be a hassle to handle, but if you follow the steps above properly, you can get through it.

It's better to keep the dog in its natural environment. Try bringing a blanket from your house or a stuffed animal from your house so the dogs gets used to the smell of you and your house if you plan to bring it there.

Dying of old age is natural and there isn't really anything you can do, and you don't have to be scared! I'm sure the owners will understand if the dog does die.

Be patient. Leave the door open for a little while to let it go outside at its own pace. You can also pick it up and place it outside if it's particularly slow.

If you feel like it. You'll probably want to get it used to your presence by playing fetch or taking it for a walk first. Otherwise, it may be scared of you when you start cuddling.

Ask the owner to leave the dog something that has the owner's scent, like a recently-worn (but not yet washed) shirt. That way the dog can cuddle up with it and will feel safer and calmer.

You can try to mix treats into their food, or drizzle some water on their food to make it easier for them to eat.

Take the dog for a walk to allow it to work off some of the stress and anxiety. You can also give the dog something with your daughter's scent on it; a recently-worn sock or shirt works great.

Try pressing down firmly, but not too hard, on the dog's rear end, while lifting the treat up.

Most adult dogs can go at least five hours without needing to eliminate. Puppies and even adult small dogs can't hold it for as long. If no one will be home for more than 5 hours, hire a dog walker. Your dog should eat breakfast before you leave for school and eat dinner before you go to bed. Dogs don't eat lunch so your pup won't need to eat while you're away.

This is highly unlikely, given the attachment dogs have for their owners. Though the dog may prefer spending more time in the new fun environment, dread really doesn’t occur. This is only really the case if the dog is uncomfortable in its home environment, which may be worth looking into.

If it’s your backyard, make sure the dogs cannot get through the gates and that there are no safety hazards. The dogs won’t get into too much trouble. You could also fence off a section of the yard, if possible. If you’re in an open space or want to keep close tabs, holding the dogs on leashes should do the trick. Otherwise, go back and forth a bit, stay focused on the dogs, and they should be fine. If you’re really nervous, another person could be a big help.