Dog Sitting as a Tool: Making the Right Choice for Your Pet

Book a meet-and-greet before you book the stay. It's the quickest way to see whether a sitter or facility suits your dog, and a good one will offer it without being asked.

Group or individual care

Group care

Your dog spends the day with other dogs, so there's play, activity and a fixed daily routine. It usually costs less than one-to-one care.

• Each dog gets less individual attention.
• Your dog needs to be comfortable around other dogs.
• Vaccinations must be up to date.
• It may not suit dogs that are anxious or aggressive.

Individual care

One person looks after your dog and follows its own schedule and habits. This works well for anxious and older dogs, and it often happens in familiar surroundings.

• It costs more than group care.
• Your dog meets few other dogs.
• Availability can be tighter, so book early.

What to look for in a sitter

Ask for these up front:

• Insurance that covers your dog
• Pet first aid and CPR training
• References from other owners
• Experience with dogs like yours, including how they read dog behaviour
• A clear plan for illness or an emergency
• Regular updates with photos or videos
• Clean facilities, if your dog stays somewhere other than your home

A sitter who won't meet you beforehand, can't name a reference or dodges questions about insurance isn't one to book.

Before the first stay

At the meet-and-greet, watch how the sitter handles your dog and how your dog reacts. Ask how a normal day runs and look around the place if it's a facility.

Then hand over the practical details:

• Vaccinations, medication and health conditions
• Feeding times, portions and any food allergies
• Fears, triggers and habits
• Your vet's number and a backup contact

Pack enough of your dog's usual food for the whole stay, medication with written instructions, a favourite toy or blanket, a leash, and a collar with an ID tag. Bring the vaccination record, and a signed authorisation for veterinary treatment if the sitter asks for one.

Helping your dog settle in

Start with a short stay, or a few short visits, before a long one. Keep feeding and walking times the same as at home. Dogs pick up on your mood, so keep the goodbye brief and calm. Give your dog a day or two to adjust.

Questions worth asking

• What's your experience with my dog's breed?
• What happens if my dog gets ill, and who decides on treatment?
• Can you give medication?
• How much exercise will my dog get each day?
• How often will I hear from you?
• What's your cancellation policy?

Cost

Price depends on group or individual care, the length of the stay, extras such as medication or a special diet, where you are, and the season. Cheapest isn't always the right pick, but check what's included before you compare.

Boarding at MyPeterinarian

Our dog boarding is run by a veterinary clinic. It's fully insured, and there's a vet at the clinic during opening hours. You get a photo or video report every evening. Prices per night are 1,294 DKK at the clinic, 1,125 DKK in a team member's home, and 1,531 DKK per stay for an overnight sitter at your home. If you only need daytime care, see dog daycare, or browse all our services.