Bringing Your Dog to Work

by Katherine Khoo June 29, 2024 6 min read

In today's fast-paced world, the concept of a dog-friendly workplace is becoming increasingly popular. Many companies now recognise the benefits of allowing employees to bring their pets to work, such as reduced stress, increased productivity, and a more enjoyable work environment. However, bringing a dog to the office also comes with its own set of challenges. Balancing work responsibilities with pet care requires planning, preparation, and a little creativity. Here are some tips for dog owners to help manage this balance effectively.

Benefits of Pets in Workplace

Having pets in the office offers numerous benefits, enhancing both employee well-being and the overall work environment. Interacting with pets can reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels and boosting oxytocin, fostering a calmer atmosphere. Pets serve as social catalysts, encouraging conversations and strengthening team bonds, while also boosting morale and job satisfaction, leading to improved employee retention. A pet-friendly policy can also attract top talent and enhance the company’s public image, creating a positive and attractive workplace culture. Pets provide emotional support, aiding mental health by alleviating loneliness and depression, and fostering a sense of community and shared values among employees. Overall, the inclusion of pets in the office not only creates a happier work environment but may create a positive corporate culture.

1. Assess Your Dog's Temperament

Before deciding to bring your dog to work, it's crucial to assess whether your dog is suited for the office environment. Not all dogs are comfortable or well-behaved in such settings. Consider the following factors:

Socialisation: Is your dog friendly and well-socialised with other dogs and people?
Behaviour: Does your dog have any behavioural issues, such as excessive barking, aggression, or anxiety?
Training: Is your dog trained to follow basic commands and behave appropriately in different situations?
If your dog’s temperament is not suited for the office environment, it might be best to work on training and socialisation first before introducing them to the office.

2. Prepare Your Dog for the Office Environment

Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth transition for both you and your dog. Here are some steps to take before bringing your dog to work:

Visit the Office: If possible, take your dog to the office during off-hours to let them explore and get used to the new environment.
Basic Training: Reinforce basic commands such as sit, stay, and come. Consider crate training if you haven't already, as it provides a safe space for your dog when you need to focus on work.
Socialisation: Gradually expose your dog to different people, sounds, and settings to help them adapt to the busy office environment.

3. Set Up a Comfortable Space

Creating a designated area for your dog is essential for their comfort and your productivity. Here’s how to set up an ideal space:

Crate, Playpen or Bed: Bring a crate, set up a playpen or comfortable bed for your dog to rest in. Get a lightweight, portable bed like the Ruffwear Basecamp™ Lightweight & Portable Dog Bed that is comfortable, easy to pack, clean, and transport. Having a personal space helps them feel secure and provides a place to retreat when they need a break.
Toys and Chews: Keep a variety of toys and chews to keep your dog entertained throughout the day. Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys are great options for mental stimulation.
Water and Food: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Bring their food and schedule feeding times to match their routine at home. Use a feeding tray to avoid spillage and mess during meal time. Remove any unfinished food and clean up the area after feeding.

4. Establish a Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, and maintaining a consistent schedule can help them adjust to the office environment. Here are some tips for establishing a routine:

Regular Breaks: Schedule regular breaks to take your dog outside for bathroom breaks and exercise. This helps prevent accidents and provides necessary physical activity. Always be prepared with a multi-surface cleaning solution as accidents may happen.
Feeding Schedule: Stick to your dog’s regular feeding schedule to maintain consistency and prevent digestive issues.
Quiet Time: Designate quiet times during the day for your dog to rest. Use this time to focus on tasks that require your full attention.

5. Communicate with Colleagues

Having a dog in the office affects everyone, so it's important to communicate with your colleagues and establish guidelines. Consider the following:

Introduce Your Dog: Properly introduce your dog to your colleagues and their dogs, if any. This helps prevent any potential conflicts and promotes a friendly atmosphere.
Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate any boundaries or rules regarding interactions with your dog. For example, let your colleagues know if your dog is sensitive to certain actions or if there are specific times when your dog should not be disturbed.
Allergy and Phobia Concerns: Be mindful of any colleagues who may have allergies or phobias related to dogs. Work together to find solutions that accommodate everyone’s needs.

6. Manage Potential Distractions

While having your dog at work can be enjoyable, it can also be distracting. Here are some strategies to minimise distractions and maintain productivity:

Training Commands: Use training commands to manage your dog’s behaviour. For instance, teach them to settle down or stay in their designated area during meetings or important tasks.
Enrichment Activities: Provide enrichment activities to keep your dog mentally stimulated. Nosework toys like this Studio Ollie Nosework Dog Toy (Pork Cutlet), treat puzzles, and training sessions can help keep your dog occupied.
Noise Control: If your dog tends to bark at noises or visitors, work on training them to stay calm or consider using white noise machines or calming music to mask background sounds.

7. Health and Safety Considerations

Maintaining your dog's health and safety in the workplace is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure their well-being:

Vaccinations and Preventatives: Ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives. This protects your dog and others in the office.
Pet-Proofing: Pet-proof your workspace by removing any hazardous items, such as electrical cords, toxic plants, or small objects that could be swallowed.
Emergency Plan: Have an emergency plan in place, including knowing the location of the nearest emergency vet clinic and having a pet first aid kit on hand.

8. Be Mindful of Your Dog's Needs

Being attentive to your dog’s needs is essential for their happiness and your productivity. Pay attention to the following:

Signs of Stress: Watch for signs of stress or discomfort in your dog, such as excessive panting, drooling, or pacing. If your dog seems unhappy, it might be best to reconsider bringing them to work.
Regular Exercise: Ensure your dog gets enough exercise before and after work. A tired dog is more likely to relax and rest during the day.
Quality Time: Spend quality time with your dog outside of work hours to strengthen your bond and provide the attention they need.

9. Evaluate and Adjust

Regularly evaluate how well the arrangement is working for both you and your dog. Be prepared to make adjustments as needed:

Feedback: Seek feedback from your colleagues and supervisors about how having your dog at work is affecting the workplace environment.
Observe Your Dog: Continuously observe your dog’s behaviour and well-being. If your dog is showing signs of stress or if the arrangement is impacting your work negatively, consider alternative solutions.
Flexible Arrangements: Explore flexible work arrangements, such as working from home part-time or adjusting your hours, to better accommodate your dog’s needs.

Bringing your dog to work can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and consideration. Assess your dog’s temperament, prepare them for the office, and create a comfortable space. Regularly communicate with colleagues, make the necessary adjustments and you can successfully balance work and pet care. Always be mindful of your dog’s needs and be open to making adjustments as necessary. With the right approach, you and your dog can enjoy the benefits of a dog-friendly workplace.