Working from home with a dog can be enjoyable. Your furry buddy keeps you company during long work days and helps break up your routine with much-needed playtime and walks. But raising a dog in your home office has challenges, like managing their needs and your work duties.
With some planning and the right approach, you can create a peaceful environment that suits you and your dog. Whether you bring a puppy home or an older dog, settling them into your home office isn’t hard.
Let’s explore how to make it all work seamlessly.
Create a Comfortable Space
Your dog needs its spot to feel safe and comfy while you work. This could be a snug bed by your desk or a quiet corner with their favourite toys.
Having their own space helps your dog settle during the day and keeps distractions down while you focus. If your dog is used to a crate, consider putting it in your office. It offers a familiar and secure place to relax.
Make sure the area has chew toys or puzzle feeders for entertainment. These can keep boredom at bay and stop them from seeking your attention when inconvenient. A bit of planning can keep your workday running smoothly.
Schedule Regular Breaks
Dogs thrive on routine and incorporating regular breaks into your workday benefits both. Use these moments to take your dog for a walk, play fetch, or practice training exercises.
These breaks help your dog burn off energy and keep them mentally stimulated. They also serve as a great way to recharge, improving focus and productivity when you return to work.
Consistency is key. Schedule breaks at the same times each day so your dog knows what to expect. This routine reduces restlessness and strengthens your bond with your furry coworker.
Focus on Feeding
Feeding your dog during work hours should be easy and stress-free. Setting a regular feeding schedule helps your dog know when mealtimes are, making it easier for them to fit into your office routine.
If you want more convenience, think about using an automatic dog feeder. These gadgets let you plan meals in advance, so you don’t need to pause work to dish out dog food portions. Some feeders even allow you to manage feeding times with an app, offering more flexibility.
Personalized meal plans simplify feeding time even further for dogs with specific dietary needs. Fresh or freeze-dried options tailored to your dog’s age, size, and activity level ensure they get the nutrition they need to stay healthy. A well-fed dog is happy, and this small step can make your workday go more smoothly.
Minimize Distractions
Having your dog in your home office can be comforting, but their curiosity might cause interruptions. Setting boundaries helps keep them from disrupting important calls or tasks.
Training your dog to understand simple commands like “stay” or “place” can be invaluable. These commands teach your dog to stay in their spot when needed, helping them understand boundaries.
When you’re on a call or focused on work, using a baby gate or closing the office door can limit their access. This allows you to enjoy their company while still meeting work demands.
Keep Them Active
A tired dog is a well-behaved dog, so regular exercise is important. Morning walks or playtime before your workday starts can help burn off extra energy, making the day calmer.
Interactive toys, such as treat-filled puzzles, keep them busy while working. These toys get their minds going and stop boredom, which can lead to naughty actions.
Choosing activities that match your dog’s energy level keeps them happy and lets you focus on work without being constantly interrupted.
Plan for Downtime
Even with a busy routine, your dog must rest during the day. Giving them a quiet, cozy spot for naps helps them recharge and keeps your office calm.
You can make it easier for them to relax by dimming the lights, playing soothing music, or offering their favourite blanket. Knowing when your dog needs a break keeps them happy and relaxed, making things better for both of you.
Stay Organized
Keeping organized makes it easier to juggle work and caring for your dog. Have your dog’s food, treats, toys, and grooming gear handy. Using a planner or app helps you remember feeding times, walks, and vet visits. Managing your dog’s schedule alongside work feels like second nature when everything is in order.