6 Survival Tips for Working From Home When You Have a Dog

Many offices have shut down due to concerns of spreading the coronavirus, so you may be working from home. Most schools are providing classes online or have adopted a hybrid schedule, meaning you may have kids and an energetic pup at home. How do you make it all work? How do you get your work done while keeping your dog entertained?

Here are 6 tips to keep you sane and productive while making sure your dog is happy and engaged.

1. Take your dog to daycare

Even though you’re home, dogs can still benefit from going to daycare during work-from-home days. For one, this will reduce the number of distractions you have to deal with (including your Zoom calls being interrupted with incessant barking). Dogs need more stimulation than a few hours of hanging out together, and they need more exercise than a quick walk around the neighborhood or being let out to the backyard a couple of times a day.

Bringing your dog to daycare will give your dog a better quality of life while helping you maintain a healthier work/life balance at the same time.

Dog daycare will help your dog by giving them:

• A chance to get out of the house
• Much needed exercise
• Mental stimulation
• Socialization with other dogs and people

2. Set up your office space

Decide how you want your work to flow. Do you need a separate workspace or can you work in the kitchen or other communal area of the house? Decide if you’ll let your dog into your office if you have a separate office space. If not, be sure to stick to your limit and only engage with your dog in the spaces you want them to stay in. If you’re okay having your dog in your office space with you, supply a bed so he or she can relax comfortably next to you.

3. Create a schedule and stick to it

Take some time to plan your day ahead and, if you’re not taking your dog to daycare, include time for walks, feeding and play. Make sure your dog is getting enough attention. If you have a puppy that still needs a nap during the day, plan a time for them to take a nap in their crate while you have uninterrupted work time.

4. Help your dog get the exercise and stimulation he or she needs

If your dog is staying home all day, he or she will need to burn extra energy. Try taking longer walks, work on training exercises and make extra time for play. Put together a special basket of toys reserved for when the two of you play together. You can also try giving your dog a special toy or treat during time you’re on a Zoom call or need uninterrupted work time.

5. Let your colleagues know you have a dog

It can be stressful trying to manage everything while working from home. The best way to smooth over unwanted interruptions from your dog is to let people know he or she is there and might be joining you. Try to use your mute button as much as possible to minimize background noises and distractions.

6. Try to enjoy working from home

Even though you might be working in less than ideal circumstances, try to make the best of your situation. You may find you enjoy being at home and having more time with your pooch.

It’s not too early to be thinking about returning to your workplace. Maintaining a regular schedule will help your dog be prepared. Continue to bring your dog to daycare at least once in a while so your dog remembers your pre-pandemic activities and routine. Giving your dog all your attention now, it may be more difficult to cope once you eventually go back to your normal life.

These are trying times so remember to be patient with yourself and your dog. Hopefully, your fur baby will provide you with enjoyment and comfort during this time of social distancing.

Are you working from home? How do you manage your pooch while you’re working? Please share with the Canine Campus community below.