5 Tips for Bringing Your Pup to a Dog-Friendly Office

Serena Faber Nelson Founder & Pet Lifestyle Writer

Pet lifestyle expert Serena Faber-Nelson is the founder of Pretty Fluffy. A contributor to Everyday with Rachael Ray, Modern Dog Magazine, Cesars Way and more; her modern, stylized take on DIY dog treats has seen her recipes viewed millions of times over.

Serena is the author of the go-to dog mom bible, Dog Mama, and the popular dog treat recipe book, Healthy Homemade Dog Treats.

A dog-friendly office is every working dog lovers dream, is it not? Because who doesn’t love the thought of having their dog by their side all day long?

Not all of us have the pleasure of taking our pups to work with us everyday. But, thanks to Take Your Dog to Work Day, we do get at least one day a year to experience the joy of having our best friends with us at work!

Every dog is different, and so too is every dog-friendly office – but these easy tips should help cover the basics so your pup can feel happy and content in your workplace.

5 Tips for Bringing Your Pup to a Dog-Friendly Office

1. Designated “Time Out” Space

A time-out space for your dog isn’t just a place to send them in case they do something naughty, it’s also a safe space for your pup to escape for some good old “me” time.

If you’re going to be spending long days at your dog-friendly workplace, your pup needs a comforting spot, just like we all do. Whether this is a designated room, a dog bed under your desk or a cool spot under that shady fiddle fig tree, this is a necessity in order to work well together.

2. The Essentials

Food, dog treats, access to water… you know the drill. Always have their food and water bowls in a place that is easy for them to access, but out of the way so that clients or visitors don’t trip over them.

Try to keep any dog bowls in the same place daily so your pup knows exactly where to go for snacks in between meetings.

3. Bed, Bath & Beyond

Give them the office tour, let them sniff it out, and keep a schedule similar to the one you keep at home – eating patterns, potty breaks, treat/play time etc. This way we avoid any accidents in the office, they know their boundaries, and you can keep on working like a boss.

Make it comfy for them so that they love going to work with you. You want them to think of this as their home-away-from-home. Whether that means a dog bed or blanket, a dog toy to lay rest their head on, or a spot on the sofa (maybe a break room futon?) comfort is a must.

We all know they are going to be napping on the job anyway, so why not prepare for it?

4. Get Organized

Your life will be so much easier having a little bit organization between your stuff and their stuff. It always seems a bit chaotic once everyone’s belongings get piled on top of each other. You know what we mean – ‘Quick grab her leash! Wait where is it? Oh, that’s right, at the bottom of the tote bag underneath all the folders…!’ Aye carumba.

Think hooks for their dog collar, harness and leash, and perhaps a cubby, basket, or maybe even a designated bottom desk drawer for toys, food storage, and anything else your pup needs during the day.

Use your best judgement on what you feel fits your space best, and will keep you and your four-legged co-worker organized.

5. Talk to them

This one is super easy! Nobody likes to be ignored – so make the workplace a welcoming experience, and talk to them throughout the day. They will appreciate it more than you think!