Bringing your dog to work can be beneficial for your pup, your co-workers, and yourself. It’s a great way to teach your dog to socialize with new people, and it eases the worry of leaving your dog at home by themselves all day. With more businesses becoming dog-friendly, bringing your dog to work has soared in popularity. If you haven’t brought your pup to the office before, or if you need ideas on how to make your dog a model employee, we have the tips, tricks, and KONG toys suggestions to help you out.
Have you Met my Dog?
If it’s your dog’s first time at the office, make sure introductions are a priority. It’s crucial that you familiarize your dog with both the office and your coworkers. A quick run-through of the space can help your dog combat anxiety or stress.
- Walk the Office Space– Give your dog a tour of the office. This will make the area feel more like home, and they’ll know where the coffee is. It may be a good idea to bring your dog in over the weekend or another non-peak time to prevent him from being overwhelmed.
- Introduce Your Dog– Have your dog meet your coworkers, especially if it is your pet’s first time in the office. Getting your pup familiar with the folks who share your space makes it easier for your furry friend to feel at home.
- Get Them Commute-Ready– Your dog’s experience in the car might be exclusive to the groomer or the vet, so take time getting them cozy and comfortable with the vehicle. Set it up in a way that helps them feel relaxed, but also make sure they’re safely restrained.
Breaktime Means Playtime
All work and no play will leave your dog feeling bored and tired. Your pup needs a break from the drudgery of the business day. Toys are an excellent answer for their boredom, but you want to be respectful of your coworkers’ time and space, give your dog something that doesn’t leave a mess or make loud noises. It’s a tall order, but the good news is that KONG Club has you covered.
- The Right Toy for The Job– Complex toys like puzzles with hidden treats can be a great source of quiet entertainment. Reach out to KONG Club trainers to figure out the right KONG toys and instructions on how to combat doggy boredom.
- Treats are a Must– Bring treats your dog loves to create positive reinforcement, making your dog more receptive to the office. A stuffed KONG Classic is another great way to reward them for behaving at work.
- Avoid Loud Squeakers– It depends on the rules at your office, but your dog’s favorite loud squeaker toy might be a significant distraction to those around you. If the volume is a concern, consider getting toys and treats that can manage any excessive barking or growling.
There’s Always Time for Bathroom Breaks
While it might seem obvious, make sure to take your dog out for occasional potty breaks. The convenience of having your dog at work with you is that they no longer have to wait for you to get home to use the bathroom. Take your furry friend out for a walk and enjoy the break from work. That time outside ensures they don’t make a mess inside, which we’re pretty sure is frowned upon in any office. And remember to always pick up after them.
Crates — The Doggy Cubical
Whether your office has an open concept or rows of cubicles, consider bringing a crate or playpen for your dog. Much like a cubical, the crate acts as a personal space that lets your dog feel more at home. It can also prevent them from getting into trouble while you’re working or in a meeting. If your dog isn’t familiar with the crate life or if you want to make the crate homier, KONG Club is here to help. Our veterinary experts have all the tips and plans to make your pooch comfy and happy in their designated space. A crate can also be a great place for your dog to escape to for a nap after putting in some hours of hard work!
Does Your Dog Even Like Work?
If you’re struggling with these tips or have concerns about how your pup feels at work, you may want to ask yourself if your dog likes coming to work. Keep an eye out for signs of stress and observe your pup’s behavior to identify whether your dog likes hanging out at the office. It might surprise you, but not all dogs love an office environment, and your pup may value their alone time at home.
- Ears Pulled Back– A very subtle sign of dog anxiety is pulled-back ears. This, mixed with tense body posture, is a clear indicator of how your dog feels at work.
- Tucked Tail– The more obvious gauge of your dog’s mood is their tail. We know an elevated, wagging tail indicates happiness and excitement. If their tail is down and tucked between their legs, they are probably uncomfortable. The tail isn’t the only indicator of emotion, so make sure to review your dog’s entire body language.
- Whale Eyes– Dogs may not always make direct eye contact with us, but a more friendly and happy dog will at least look in the direction of someone. If at work, your dog is looking in other directions, showing the whites of their eyes, they may be stressed about their environment. This is called whale eyes. Your dog’s head is pointing one way, but their eyes are focused on potential threats or stressors surrounding them.
- Barking and Growling– Ideally, you wouldn’t want your dog excessively barking or growling at work, but if they are, then that might mean something at work is making them uncomfortable. If your pup is being pretty vocal at work, then they might not care for the 9-to-5 life, and honestly, who can blame them.
Now you and your dog are ready for the office. An important reminder is that it may or may not be perfect at the office, so be prepared to work on your dog’s behavior. Take time to think about how your dog feels at work and what that could mean about future office visits. Reach out to the pet coaches, vets and trainers in the KONG Club app for advice and Personalized Pet Plans to make bringing your dog to work a breeze.
