Share This Checklist

Pet Behavior and Training Notes Checklist

Use this checklist to track your pet’s training, socialization needs, and unique behavioral traits. It’s a helpful tool for sitters, trainers, or anyone involved in your pet’s care.

  • List of Commands: Include all commands your pet knows (e.g., sit, stay, come, leave it).
  • Hand Signals: Any specific hand signals used in conjunction with commands.
  • Training Progress: Track recent training achievements and areas for improvement.
  • Reinforcement Schedule: Note frequency and type of reinforcement (treats, toys).
  • Cue Words for Behaviors: Specific words or phrases that prompt desired behaviors.

  • People Socialization: Describe comfort level with adults, children, and strangers.
  • Other Pets: Indicate whether your pet is comfortable with dogs, cats, or other animals.
  • Play Style: Notes on play style (gentle, rough, cautious, etc.).
  • Preferred Playmates: List regular playmates or types of animals your pet enjoys.
  • Supervision Needs: Level of supervision required in various social settings.

  • Unique Personality Traits: Describe your pet’s personality (friendly, shy, independent, etc.).
  • Common Triggers: Any specific sounds, environments, or situations that cause stress or anxiety.
  • Signs of Stress or Fear: List behaviors that indicate discomfort (whining, hiding, growling).
  • Favorite Activities: Note favorite activities, games, or types of play.
  • Daily Routine: Outline the ideal daily schedule to maintain consistent behavior.

  • Anxiety Triggers: List known anxiety triggers (e.g., thunderstorms, car rides, strangers).
  • Calming Aids: Include items like anxiety wraps, pheromone sprays, or calming chews.
  • Routine for Comfort: Describe comforting routines or items (favorite blanket, quiet room).
  • Training for Anxiety Management: Techniques being used to address or manage anxiety.
  • Emergency Comfort Plan: Steps for reducing anxiety in an emergency situation.

  • Favorite Treats: Note favorite treats and any dietary restrictions.
  • Reward Preferences: Describe the types of rewards that work best (toys, verbal praise, treats).
  • Training Rewards: Include specific treats or toys reserved for training only.
  • Reinforcement Timing: Ideal timing for rewards after desired behaviors.
  • Reward Avoidance: List any rewards or reinforcements that should be avoided.

  • Barking or Vocalizing: Note situations that trigger barking and any mitigation strategies.
  • Chewing and Destructive Behaviors: Identify items commonly chewed and prevention methods.
  • Aggression or Reactivity: Situations that may lead to aggression and training techniques.
  • House Training Issues: Any ongoing house training issues and current strategies.
  • Counterconditioning Techniques: Strategies for reducing problem behaviors through positive associations.

  • Short-Term Goals: Specific behaviors or skills you’re currently working on.
  • Long-Term Goals: Desired behaviors or skills for the future (off-leash training, recall).
  • Training Milestones: Record of achieved milestones or breakthroughs.
  • Planned Classes or Sessions: Upcoming training classes or sessions with a professional.
  • Progress Notes: Notes on overall progress and adjustments to training plans.

  • Escape Prevention: Methods for preventing escape (secure fencing, recall training).
  • Emergency Commands: Important commands for emergency situations (e.g., “stop” or “come”).
  • Behavioral Monitoring: Signs to monitor if your pet’s behavior suddenly changes.
  • Contact Info for Trainer: Contact information for trainers or behaviorists.
  • Plan for Aggressive Behavior: Steps to safely manage any unexpected aggressive behavior.

This Checklist Is Summarized In The Pet Care & Legacy Worksheet

Document your pet’s habits, veterinarian information, diet, and routines, and more, making transitions easier for future caregivers.

Get The Worksheet

Leave Your Heirs The Gift Of Organization With a CLEAR Kit

Did you know?

The average estate takes 570 hours to administer.

Other Useful Checklists

Related Content