Introducing Your Puppy to a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
Leaving your puppy in the care of someone new can feel overwhelming, for both you and your pup. Puppies, especially reactive or anxious ones, may take time to adjust to strangers in their space. A thoughtful introduction process not only makes your puppy more comfortable but also helps build trust with the dog walker or pet sitter.
With patience, consistency, and a little help from comforting tools like the Snuggle Puppy®, you can make the transition smooth and stress-free.
Why Puppies May Struggle with New People
Puppies are naturally curious, but they’re also learning who is safe and who isn’t. When a new person suddenly enters their home, especially if their parents aren’t there, it can trigger nervousness or barking. Some puppies may:
- Bark or growl to keep distance
- Hide or avoid interaction
- Show restlessness when parents leave
This is all normal, but with the right approach, your puppy can learn that new caregivers mean safety, fun, and care.
Steps to Introduce Your Puppy to a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
1. Start With a Meet-and-Greet
Invite the walker or sitter over while you’re home. Let your puppy sniff, observe, and interact at their own pace. Keep the meeting calm and positive with treats and gentle encouragement.
2. Keep the First Visit Short
Begin with a brief visit while you’re still nearby. Even a short walk around the block helps your puppy associate the new caregiver with a normal routine activity.
3. Use Familiar Comfort Items
Leaving your puppy with something they already know and love can ease the stress of new interactions. The Snuggle Puppy®, with its heartbeat and optional heat pack, provides a sense of familiarity, helping your pup feel safe even when you’re not home.
4. Create a Predictable Routine
Schedule dog walker or sitter visits at consistent times each day. Puppies thrive on structure, and knowing when to expect care builds trust and comfort.
5. Reward Calm Behavior
If your puppy settles or greets the new caregiver without fear, reward them with praise or a small treat. Positive reinforcement strengthens the idea that meeting new people is a good thing.
Supporting Reactive or Anxious Puppies
For puppies who are more reactive, take introductions slowly. Allow distance at first, gradually decreasing it as your pup becomes more comfortable. Using a Snuggle Puppy® during downtime can provide comfort and reduce the stress that sometimes builds after new interactions.
Introducing your puppy to a dog walker or pet sitter is an important step in raising a confident, well-socialized dog. With gradual introductions, consistency, and the calming reassurance of the Snuggle Puppy®, your pup will learn to trust new caregivers, even when you’re not there.
