Dogs have their own personalities and quirks, just like people do. Different breeds tend to have behaviors linked to their DNA. Over the years, we have learned what to expect from certain breeds.
We recently signed up a new client with a dog I just had a feeling was going to be a challenge based on his behavior during our meeting. This dog kept his distance and wouldn’t really let us touch him. I expressed my concerns during our meeting and the client was adamant that the dog would be no problem.
I almost asked the client to leave the invisible fence collar on for the first visit because I concerned that he wasn’t going to let the sitter near him on the first visit.
I should have listened to my gut.
When the sitter arrived to the first visit there was no barking or growling, but this dog would not let her anywhere near him to put the collar or leash on. I advised her to sit quietly on the floor and completely ignore the dog. He would come close enough for her to give him treats and get a pet in here or there, but the moment she made a move to put on the collar, he bolted.
Had they left the invisible fence collar on, she could have just let him out without issue.
We would never risk a bite by cornering a dog and didn’t want to stress him anymore than he already was, so we contacted the client and let them know we were unsuccessful in getting him outside.
Some dogs just need a visit or two to get used to someone new.
It’s uncommon, but not unheard of, for this type of thing to happen on the first visit with an ‘iffy’ dog.
In hindsight, based on the dog’s behavior at our initial meeting, I should have insisted that the client schedule a trial visit or two to see how the dog would behave for the sitter. I also should have insisted on them leaving the invisible fence collar on for the first visit.
If you have an ‘iffy’ dog, or you just want complete peace of mind, consider hiring your pet sitter or dog walker to come for a few trial visits before you leave to be sure that all parties are comfortable and your dog is going to cooperate.
Don’t be offended or think your pet sitter is just trying to get more money out of you if they suggest doing trial visits before you go away. Instead, be thankful you’re hiring a professional who is looking out for your (and your dog’s) best interest.
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