Tips for Working From Home with Your Dog

Whether you have been working from home your entire career or have recently settled into your new home office space, working at home with a dog at your feet has its advantages - and its distractions.

Like humans, dogs thrive by having a routine schedule that includes potty breaks, play-time and feeding times (don't forget the cuddles!). As pet parents, it's essential to keep these habits in mind during our working days to ensure a positive and productive experience.

Here are our top tips for working from home when you have a dog.

Create a Routine for Your Dog and Stick to It

The best way to get your dog disciplined and into a daily routine is to ensure you have the same set of activities every day! Make sure to set aside time for feeding, walking, playing, and to allow for washroom breaks to ensure your dog doesn't leave an accident or two. Keeping these activities on a set schedule will allow you to develop a deeper bond with your dog while reducing attention-seeking behaviour.

Create Designated Areas for Your Dog

When it comes to creating a designated area for your dog, giving careful thought to where your dog can rest while you are working will set you up for success in the long run. Ensure your dog knows the areas they do and don’t have access to during your working hours. For example, setting up a location outside your office where your dog can see you but isn't close enough for an easy distraction is just one idea!

Limit the Attention

It can be easy to get distracted knowing that our dogs are constantly at our feet when we have tight deadlines to meet! However, to ensure your dog does not begin barking for attention, try limiting the attention you give them. However, this does not mean you have to put your dog in a separate room the whole time. Instead, try giving them attention in intervals to stimulate them mentally!

Keep Them Distracted with Toys

Keeping your dog distracted with toys throughout the working day is another excellent way to have your dog occupy time while still being active.

It may take a bit of trial and error, but once you have found a toy your pup has taken a liking to, it will be sure to keep them busy!

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Make Good Use of Extra Time

Working from home has many advantages, including the short commute right to your desk. Before you begin your workday, set your alarm for an earlier time for when you would typically arrive at your workplace!

Use this extra time and take your dog for a good walk before you dive into meetings. Not only will it take the edge off your dog, but it will set you up, both mentally and physically, for the day ahead. A morning walk also helps maintain your routine, giving your dog a sense of security.

Amp Up the Walks

Just as you would if you were working at a regular workplace, take intermittent short breaks. Short breaks throughout the day aren't just good for your dog's well-being but yours as well! Use this time to walk away from the desk and play fetch with your dog for a few minutes, go for a quick walk with them or enjoy a few minutes with a beverage and a cuddling session. These simple activities will clear your head and make your dog very happy.

Conclusion

Working from home with your dog can not only be productive but can be a fantastic experience for you both. Taking the time to find the best practices to introduce to you and your dog's daily routine may be a hit or miss at first, but with some patience - we are sure you will find something that will work for the both of you!

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