Leaving your beloved dog with a sitter can be a stressful experience,(as dog owners we totally get it) especially if your dog is prone to anxiety when you’re not around. Whether it’s the first time you’re leaving them in someone else’s care or they’ve had a bad experience in the past, it’s natural to feel concerned about their well-being.

The good news is that with some planning, preparation, and patience, you can help ease your dog’s nervousness and ensure a smooth transition. As lifelong dog owners and long time dog sitters we wanted to provide some practical tips on what to do if your dog is nervous about being left with a sitter.

1. Choose the Right Sitter
   The first step in reducing your dog’s anxiety is selecting a sitter who is not only trustworthy but also experienced with nervous dogs. You may want to look for a sitter who has experience with anxiety-prone dogs and can provide the level of attention and care your dog requires.
   
   The first step is to arrange a meet-and-greet with the sitter. This gives your dog the opportunity to get comfortable with them in a neutral environment and also allows you to see the environment they would be staying in (if away from your home) as well as being able to assess if there is any visible tension or discomfort from your dog’s side.

2. Familiarize Your Dog with the Sitter
   If your dog isn’t used to being around a new person, gradual exposure can help build trust. Start by having shorter visits for a day or overnight. This way, your dog can get used to their presence and associate them with positive experiences like playtime, treats, or walks. This helps your dog adjust to the change and understand that you’ll always return.

3. Create a Comforting Routine
   Dogs thrive on routine, and a disruption to their usual schedule can add to their anxiety. To help ease their nerves, try to maintain a consistent routine when leaving them with a sitter and provide the sitter with as much detail as possible including their feeding routine, behavioural issues or bad habits they need to manage.
   
   It can help to leave your dog their favourite toy, blanket, or a piece of clothing with your scent on it as familiar smells can provide comfort and reduce feelings of anxiety when they miss you.

4. Provide Clear Instructions
   The more detailed and clear your instructions are, the more confident the sitter will feel, which can, in turn, help your dog feel more secure. Write down your dog’s daily feeding schedule, and any special preferences or habits. Also, provide contact information for your veterinarian and emergency instructions in case something unexpected happens.
   
   If your dog has any behavioural quirks related to anxiety, such as excessive barking, chewing, or pacing, make sure to communicate these so the sitter can be prepared to handle them appropriately.

5. Stay Calm When Saying Goodbye
   Dogs are incredibly intuitive and can pick up on our emotions. If you’re anxious or overly emotional when you leave, your dog will sense it and become more stressed. Try to keep your goodbyes brief and upbeat. Offer your dog a treat or a toy to distract them, and then calmly walk away.
   
   If your dog shows signs of separation anxiety, such as drooling or whining, don’t linger. Extended goodbyes can cause more distress, so it’s best to leave with confidence and reassurance that everything will be fine.

6. Use Positive Reinforcement
   Once you’ve left, it’s important to ensure your dog remains comfortable while you’re away. Ask the sitter to provide positive reinforcement when your dog exhibits calm behaviour. Praise and treats can go a long way in helping your dog associate their time with the sitter with positive experiences.

7. Keep Communication Open
   While you’re away, stay in touch with the sitter for updates on your dog’s well-being. We personally provide regular photos and video updates to reassure you that your dog is doing well. Frequent communication can help put you at ease so you can relaz on your holiday

8. Reunite With Your Dog Calmly
   When you return home, avoid making a huge fuss over your dog. While it’s tempting to show your excitement, it can sometimes increase their anxiety, especially if they’re nervous about you leaving again in the future. Instead, calmly greet your dog and allow them some time to adjust back to their environment. Offer a treat or a gentle petting session to let them know everything is back to normal.

It’s natural to feel uneasy when leaving your dog with a sitter, especially if they’re anxious. By choosing the right sitter, providing clear instructions, and ensuring your dog feels secure and comfortable, you can make the experience much less stressful for both you and your dog. Remember, patience is key, and with time, your dog will learn to feel more confident when left in someone else’s care. Our regulars are testament to this and gladly run down the driveway and can’t wait to start playing with their new friends.