What to pack for your dog when staying with a walker or sitter
If your dog is staying with a walker or sitter, getting things set up properly makes a big difference.
Not just for the person caring for them.
But for your dog.
The more familiar and consistent things are, the more settled your dog will be while you’re away.
This is the simple checklist I recommend based on real day-to-day care.
This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon associate, if you choose to buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Start with this mindset
You don’t need lots of new things.
You don’t need to overprepare.
Most dogs do best when:
- their routine stays the same
- their environment feels familiar
- nothing changes suddenly
This guide is about keeping things simple and predictable.
The essentials
Food and feeding routine
Leave:
- enough food for the full stay
- a few extra days’ worth
- clear written instructions
Even if it feels obvious, write it down.
A simple airtight container like the Curver Pet Food Container (Amazon) helps keep everything organised and easy to access.
Lead, harness and walking kit
This is one of the most important parts.
Your dog should be walked in equipment they already know.
Leave:
- a well-fitted harness
- a secure lead
- a backup lead if possible
A good everyday option is the Halti Training Lead or Bullybillows Double-ended lead (Amazon affiliate link)
For harnesses, something like the Perfect Fit Dog Harness works well because it’s adjustable and secure.
Long line (if your dog uses one)
If your dog needs space or is still building confidence, leave a long line.
Biothane lines are especially practical as they’re easy to handle and clean.
Recommended long line – Amazon affiliate link
Water and hydration
Leave:
- water bowls
- a spare bowl
A portable option like the MalsiPree Dog Water Bottle can be useful for longer or warmer walks.
Bedding and comfort
Leave:
- your dog’s usual bed
- blankets or familiar items
Familiar smells help your dog settle more quickly.
Keeping things calm during the stay
This matters more than any product.
Routine
Write down:
- feeding times
- walk routine
- anything your dog finds stressful
Consistency helps your dog feel secure.
Behaviour notes
Let your walker or sitter know if your dog:
- reacts to other dogs
- is nervous in certain situations
- needs space
This avoids unnecessary pressure.
If your dog needs a calmer approach, you can read more here:
→ [LINK: Rescue Dog Support Page]
Useful extras
Treats and rewards
Leave:
- your dog’s usual treats
- anything used for training
Simple options like Nature’s Menu Training Treats are easy to use and widely accepted.
Enrichment (especially for house sitting)
If your dog is staying at home, enrichment helps break up the day.
Good options include:
- LickiMat Classic Dog Mat (Amazon affiliate link)
- KONG Classic Dog Toy (Guide)
These help with calming and mental stimulation.
Poo bags
Easy to forget, but essential.
Reliable options like Earth Rated Dog Poo Bags (amazon) make things easier.
Hot weather extras
If your booking is in warmer weather, it helps to plan ahead.
Consider:
- extra water
- shaded rest areas
- cooling options
A simple The Green Pet Shop Cooling Mat (from Amazon) comes in 5 sizes and can help keep dogs comfortable indoors.
What not to do
This is just as important.
Avoid:
- switching food
- introducing new equipment
- changing routine suddenly
This can unsettle your dog more than your absence.
A simple checklist
If you want to keep things straightforward, make sure you have:
- food and instructions
- harness and lead
- bedding
- routine notes
- treats
- contact details
That’s enough for most dogs.
What I use and recommend
These are the types of things I see work well:
(All links below are Amazon affiliate links, and I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you)
- Food storage → Curver Pet Food Container
- Lead → Halti Training Lead
- Harness → Perfect Fit Dog Harness
- Enrichment → LickiMat Classic Dog Mat / KONG Classic Dog Toy
- Hydration → MalsiPree Dog Water Bottle
You don’t need everything. These just make things easier.
Guide: recommended products
How this fits with your dog’s care
The better things are set up, the smoother everything runs.
You can read more about:
If you’re unsure
If you’re not sure what your dog needs, that’s completely normal.
If you’d like to talk things through, you’re welcome to get in touch.
Related guides
Final thoughts
You don’t need to overthink it.
Familiar routine and a simple setup will go a long way.
Everything else just supports that.
If you want help making sure your dog is set up properly, feel free to get in touch.
Below are some related posts that you may be interested in
Dog walking tips everyone should know
The pros and cons of the Harnness V collar
