A sitter handoff should show the dog's ordinary routine and early stress signs without arranging unnecessary contact. Familiarity may develop over time and should not be forced during one visit.
Start with the full picture
Meet with barriers and clear retreat options. Describe observable history, triggers and safe routines rather than promising the dog will warm up.
What to compare
| Observation | What to note |
|---|---|
| Entry | Where does the dog choose to stand or hide? |
| Movement | What happens when the sitter walks, sits or reaches? |
| Resources | Are food, beds, doors or owner proximity changing tension? |
A low-pressure next step
Let the sitter ignore the dog and follow a written care plan. Use separate spaces when direct handling is not yet safe.
Example in context
A dog remains behind a gate, takes tossed food and retreats when the sitter stands. The plan should preserve the gate and avoid lead handling until professionally addressed.
When to ask for help
Fear, warnings or required handling beyond the sitter's safe ability needs qualified help. Sudden behavior changes should be assessed by a veterinarian.
Sources and limits
Blue Cross: being safe around dogs provides background for reading this pattern. Safety examples do not replace direct supervision or an individual behavior plan. This guide is an observation aid, not a diagnosis or a promise that every dog uses the signal in the same way.