Choosing someone to care for your dog is a big decision, and a meet-and-greet is one of the most important steps in the process.
It isn’t an interview that anyone has to “pass”. Instead, it’s an opportunity for you, your dog and your chosen pet care professional to get to know each other, ask questions and make sure everyone feels comfortable before any walks or visits begin.
Whether you’re arranging regular dog walking, house sitting, puppy visits, or pet sitting, a relaxed meet-and-greet helps build trust and lays the foundation for a positive working relationship.
If you’re still deciding which type of care is right for your dog, start with my Choosing the Right Dog Care: A Complete Guide.
What Is a Meet and Greet?
A meet-and-greet is an informal visit before any professional pet care begins.
It gives everyone the opportunity to become familiar with one another without the pressure of immediately starting walks or visits.
During the meeting, you’ll usually discuss:
- Your dog’s daily routine.
- Walking habits.
- Feeding.
- Medication.
- Veterinary details.
- Behaviour.
- House access.
- Emergency procedures.
- Any concerns you may have.
It’s also a chance for your dog to meet a new person while you’re present, making future visits much less stressful.
Why Is a Meet and Greet Important?
Every dog is different.
Some dogs happily greet new people.
Others need time to observe before interacting.
Puppies, rescue dogs, elderly dogs, and dogs who are nervous or reactive often benefit from gradual introductions rather than being immediately left with someone unfamiliar.
A meet-and-greet allows your pet care provider to learn about your dog as an individual rather than making assumptions.
It also allows you to decide whether you feel comfortable trusting someone with your dog and your home.
Professional pet care should never feel rushed.
What Happens During a Meet and Greet?
Every pet care professional works slightly differently, but a typical meet and greet often includes:
| Topic | Why it’s discussed |
|---|---|
| Your dog’s personality | To understand confidence levels, likes, dislikes and routines. |
| Walking routine | Favourite routes, exercise needs and preferences. |
| Behaviour | Reactions to other dogs, people, cyclists, wildlife or traffic. |
| Feeding | Meal times, treats and dietary requirements. |
| Medication | Current medication, health conditions and any ongoing treatment. |
| Veterinary details | Who your registered vet is and emergency procedures. |
| Equipment | Harnesses, collars, leads, muzzles or long lines if used. |
| House access | Keys, alarms, parking or security arrangements where appropriate. |
| Emergency contacts | Who should be contacted if you’re unavailable. |
A good meet and greet is a conversation rather than a checklist.
There should be plenty of opportunity for you to ask questions too.
How to Prepare Before the Visit
A little preparation helps everything run smoothly.
You don’t need to tidy your home to perfection or worry if your dog is excited.
Instead, focus on having useful information available.
Before your appointment, try to:
- Make a note of your dog’s normal routine.
- Write down any medication instructions.
- Have your vet’s details available.
- Think about any concerns you’d like to discuss.
- Gather your dog’s walking equipment.
- Make sure everyone involved in your dog’s care knows the appointment is taking place.
If your dog has any behavioural concerns, don’t be embarrassed to mention them.
Being open and honest allows your pet care professional to adapt their approach appropriately.
Information to Have Ready
Having important information in one place helps both you and your dog walker.
Here’s a useful checklist.
| Information | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Dog’s full name | Helps avoid confusion if you have multiple pets. |
| Age | Puppies and older dogs often have different care needs. |
| Breed or mix | Gives useful background but shouldn’t be used to make assumptions. |
| Veterinary practice | Essential in an emergency. |
| Emergency contact | Someone who can make decisions if you’re unavailable. |
| Medication | Ensures correct administration if required. |
| Allergies | Helps avoid unsuitable treats or foods. |
| Feeding routine | Keeps your dog’s day consistent. |
| Favourite toys | Can help your dog settle during visits. |
| Behaviour around other dogs | Helps plan safe walks. |
| Behaviour around people | Allows introductions to be managed appropriately. |
| Recall reliability | Important for planning suitable walks. |
| Home security information | Helps visits run smoothly while keeping your home secure. |
For a more detailed checklist, see my guide What Information Should You Leave for a Dog Walker?
Questions to Ask Your Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
Don’t worry about asking questions.
A professional should be happy to answer them.
You might like to ask:
- How long have you been working with dogs?
- Are you insured?
- Are you DBS checked?
- Do you have experience with rescue or nervous dogs?
- What happens during hot weather?
- What would you do if my dog became ill?
- How do you communicate after walks or visits?
- Will the same person care for my dog every time?
- What happens if you’re ill or on holiday?
You may also want to discuss cancellation policies, payment arrangements and how keys are managed.
Read this guide on questions to ask your dog walker
What Should You Tell Them?
Remember, your dog walker or pet sitter isn’t judging you.
The more information they have, the better they can care for your dog.
It’s helpful to mention:
- Any fears or phobias.
- Medical conditions.
- Food allergies.
- Favourite games.
- Triggers during walks.
- Training cues you already use.
- Areas you’d prefer to avoid.
- Whether your dog enjoys meeting other dogs.
- Whether your dog has ever escaped from equipment.
Even small details can make a big difference.
What Might Your Dog Do?
Every dog reacts differently when meeting someone new.
Some may immediately ask for attention.
Others may choose to watch quietly from across the room.
You may notice your dog:
- Sniffing the visitor.
- Bringing over a toy.
- Remaining close to you.
- Ignoring everyone completely.
- Barking briefly.
- Watching from a distance.
- Becoming excited.
- Settling after a few minutes.
All of these can be perfectly normal.
Allow your dog to interact at their own pace rather than encouraging forced greetings.
Organisations such as the RSPCA and The Kennel Club advise allowing dogs choice during introductions rather than insisting on immediate interaction.
What Happens After the Meet and Greet?
If everyone feels comfortable, you’ll usually agree the next steps.
These may include:
- Confirming your first booking.
- Exchanging keys if appropriate.
- Completing any paperwork.
- Confirming emergency contacts.
- Discussing updates after visits.
- Agreeing collection or visit times.
If either you or the pet care professional feels the arrangement isn’t quite right, that’s perfectly acceptable too.
Finding the right match is more important than rushing into an arrangement.
Green Flags and Red Flags During a Meet and Greet
Choosing someone to care for your dog is about more than qualifications. It’s also about whether they take the time to understand your dog’s individual needs and whether you feel comfortable with their approach.
The table below highlights positive signs to look for, as well as behaviours that may suggest you should ask more questions or continue your search.
| Green Flags | Red Flags |
|---|---|
| Takes time to get to know your dog before discussing bookings. | Rushes through the meeting or seems focused on leaving quickly. |
| Listens carefully to your concerns and asks questions about your dog’s routine. | Doesn’t ask about your dog’s personality, health or behaviour. |
| Is happy to explain how they work and answer your questions. | Avoids questions or gives vague answers. |
| Discusses emergency procedures and veterinary arrangements. | Has no clear plan for emergencies. |
| Explains what happens during hot weather or poor weather. | Says walks always go ahead regardless of conditions. |
| Treats your dog calmly and allows them to approach in their own time. | Tries to force interaction or ignores signs your dog is uncomfortable. |
| Is open about insurance, DBS checks and experience. | Is reluctant to discuss qualifications or insurance. |
| Explains how updates and communication work. | Doesn’t explain how you’ll know your dog is safe during visits. |
Remember, no two professionals will work in exactly the same way. The most important thing is that their approach suits both you and your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a meet and greet usually take?
Most meet-and-greets last between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on your dog’s needs and the type of care you’re arranging.
The aim isn’t to rush through a checklist but to make sure everyone feels comfortable and has enough time to ask questions.
Should my dog be present?
Yes. Most definitely. I always think it is the dog that is choosing who looks after them whilst you are not around
Your dog should normally be present, so they have the opportunity to meet the person who may be caring for them.
Allow your dog to choose how quickly they interact rather than encouraging them to greet someone immediately.
Do I need to pay for a meet and greet?
Every business is different.
Some include the meet-and-greet as part of their service, while others charge a small fee, particularly if travel is involved.
Always ask before booking so you know what to expect.
What if my dog is nervous?
That’s completely understandable.
Many dogs take time to build confidence around new people.
Let your dog approach in their own time and be honest about any concerns beforehand so your dog walker or pet sitter can adapt their approach.
Can I arrange more than one meet and greet?
Sometimes, yes. Although extra visits may carry a small cost
This may be particularly helpful for rescue dogs, puppies, dogs who are anxious around unfamiliar people or those with more complex care needs.
What happens if I decide the arrangement isn’t right?
A meet and greet is designed to help everyone decide whether they’re a good fit.
If you don’t feel comfortable, it’s perfectly acceptable to continue your search.
The right pet care arrangement should leave you feeling confident rather than uncertain.
Please do let the person know, as there is nothing more frustrating than not knowing if the booking is going ahead, and it makes planning very difficult
Should I leave keys during the first meeting?
Only if you’re happy to do so and ongoing care has been agreed.
Some owners prefer to wait until bookings are confirmed.
If keys are exchanged, ask how they’ll be stored securely.
What paperwork might I be asked to complete?
Many professional pet care providers ask owners to complete forms covering:
- Emergency contacts.
- Veterinary details.
- Feeding routines.
- Medication.
- Walking preferences.
- Behaviour.
- Consent for emergency veterinary treatment if required.
Providing accurate information helps your pet care provider look after your dog safely.
Top Tips for a Successful Meet and Greet
A few simple steps can help everyone relax.
✔ Be honest about your dog’s behaviour.
✔ Have important information ready.
✔ Write down any questions beforehand.
✔ Allow your dog to interact at their own pace.
✔ Don’t worry if your dog is excited or a little shy.
✔ Take your time before making a decision.
Remember, a good pet care professional wants to understand your dog as an individual, not simply complete a booking.
Download Your Dog Care Information Checklist
Preparing information in advance can make future bookings much easier.
Consider creating a simple folder containing:
- Veterinary details.
- Emergency contacts.
- Medication instructions.
- Feeding routine.
- Walking preferences.
- Behaviour notes.
- Home information.
- Spare key arrangements.
This information is also useful if family members or friends ever need to care for your dog at short notice.
Related Guides
Continue exploring the Choosing Care Hub with these helpful guides:
- Choosing the Right Dog Care: A Complete Guide
- How to Choose a Dog Walker
- House Sitting vs Boarding Kennels
- Leaving Your Dog with a Pet Sitter for the First Time
- What Information Should You Leave for a Dog Walker?
- Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Dog Walker (future guide)
- One-to-One Dog Walking
- House Sitting
- Summer Dog Safety Guide
- Canine Enrichment Ideas for Everyday Life
Final Thoughts
A meet and greet is about far more than introductions.
It’s an opportunity to build trust, share important information and make sure everyone feels comfortable before professional pet care begins.
Taking a little extra time now can help create a positive relationship that benefits both you and your dog for years to come.
Whether you’re arranging regular dog walking, pet sitting or house sitting, choosing someone who takes the time to understand your dog’s individual needs is one of the best investments you can make in their wellbeing.
If you’re looking for calm, one-to-one dog walking or pet care in Finchley and the surrounding areas, I’d be delighted to arrange an informal meet and greet and answer any questions you may have.
Every dog deserves care that suits them as an individual.
