Taking care of your dog while you’re working

Whether you work from home, head into the office – or do a bit of both – fitting your dog into your working day is something most owners will recognise as a genuine challenge. After all, dogs don’t really understand deadlines.

That said, a bit of planning can go a long way towards keeping both you and your four-legged colleague happy during working hours.

With Bring Your Dog to Work Day on 26 June, here’s how to make your working environment work for your dog too.

Working from home with your dog

For home workers, having a dog around during the day is one of life’s genuine perks. But it comes with its own challenges – particularly when your dog decides that your 9am video call is the perfect time for a barkfest.

Here’s how to smooth things out:

Stick to a routine

Dogs thrive on routine, and a predictable day makes them feel secure. Try to feed, walk and play with your dog at similar times each day. If your dog knows that a walk is coming after lunch, they’re much less likely to spend the morning pestering you for attention.

Give them a comfortable space

Set up a cosy spot for your dog near (but not necessarily at) your workspace. A bed or crate they associate with relaxing can help them settle while you focus. Over time, they’ll learn that when you sit at your desk, it’s calm time for them too.

Use enrichment to keep them occupied

Puzzle feeders, long-lasting chews and Kongs stuffed with food are terrific for keeping dogs mentally stimulated and quietly occupied while you work. A tired, engaged dog is a settled dog.

Build in proper breaks

Use your breaks to give your dog some quality time. A short garden play session or a quick walk does wonders for both of you. It’s good for your wellbeing too, and you’ll return to your desk refreshed.

Taking your dog into a dog-friendly office

More and more workplaces are opening their doors to dogs. And with good reason – studies have shown that dogs in the office can reduce stress and boost morale. But bringing your dog into a shared space nonetheless requires some thought.

Make sure your dog is ready for it

Not every dog is suited to a busy office environment. A dog that’s comfortable around strangers, other dogs and unfamiliar noises is much more likely to have a positive experience. If your dog gets anxious easily, a quieter home environment might actually be kinder to them.

Pack the essentials

Bring everything your dog needs for a comfortable day:

• Their bed or blanket
• Food and water bowls
• Enough food for the day
• Some familiar toys or chews

The more comfortable and settled they feel, the better the day will go for everyone.

Be considerate of your colleagues

Even in a dog-friendly office, not everyone is a dog person. Plus some colleagues may have allergies.

Keep your dog close to your own workspace, and ask before allowing interactions. And it should go without saying, but clean up promptly after them if you need to.

A well-behaved, well-managed dog is the best ambassador for future dog-friendly days.

Plan toilet breaks

Scope out green spaces near the office before you arrive, and plan regular toilet breaks into your day.

And don’t wait for your dog to tell you they need to go. Be proactive, especially in an unfamiliar environment where they might be too distracted to signal.

A few final tips for any working dog parent

• Exercise before work: A good walk or play session before you start the day can make a real difference to how settled your dog is.
• Don’t feel guilty: Dogs sleep a lot – sometimes up to 12-14 hours a day. A settled dog isn’t bored… They’re perfectly content.
• Consider a dog walker or sitter: If your days are long or unpredictable, a midday visit from a dog walker can make all the difference.
• Keep an eye on their wellbeing: If your dog seems stressed, unsettled or unhappy in your working setup, it could be worth speaking to your vet or a behaviourist for advice.

If you have a Petgevity policy, you can video call an expert at FirstVet for free advice 24/7.

Happy dogs, happy workers

With the right preparation, having your dog around during the working day can be genuinely lovely – for them and for you. Whether you’re working from the sofa with a Cavalier snoozing at your feet, or heading into the office for Bring Your Dog to Work Day, a little thought goes a long way.

Whatever adventures your dog gets up to during the working day, it’s always good to know you have the right pet insurance working with you.