is, first I insist they fill out an application. It seems that step makes people who are really just looking for a way to spend an afternoon uncomfortable. They basically have to give me all their contact information and why they want a doodle, etc... So even though they aren't putting a deposit, it makes them feel like they are committing to something AND makes they give me all their personal information (which most people don't do lightly). Second, I make sure they are aware of the price and are okay with it. I find the biggest thing that 'changes' peoples minds is the price. So I make sure it is discussed in emails, etc. Third, I've now taken my phone number off my site and only have my email address listed. This allows me to keep the emails going back and forth until I can get a better sense of how interested they really are. Again, those that are only sort of interested get tired after a few emails. Only those that are really committed keep at it and in fact get more enthusiastic as the exchanges continue. Finally, I do have some basic rules and guidelines I make them aware of, for example, no visitors if there are pups under two weeks of age in the house and encourage visits only after 4 weeks of age (because although they are precious before this age, they aren't really 'cute'). Lastly, I 'passive-aggressively' communicate what this is 'costing' me - for example, I will say - "I'm not available Wednesday because my son has rugby. But I could be available Thursday evening after 7. That gives me time to get home from work and feed my kids". I want them to know that I am a busy person with a busy life and that inviting them into my home impacts my family life. Except for the most self-centered people, that usually makes them realize that coming for something to do isn't polite.