Bringing your furry friend to work can be an exciting and rewarding experience for both you and your pet.

National bring your dog to work day is  June 23,  so there couldn't be a better time to consider this. But, making the transition from woof to work can be a daunting task. Whether you're a seasoned pet parent or a first-time office dog owner, there are a few things you need to consider before bringing your pup to the office. From ensuring your workplace is dog-friendly to preparing your furry friend for the new environment, there's a lot to think about. But don't worry, with a little bit of preparation and patience, you and your dog can have a smooth office transition. In this article, we'll provide you with some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your office dog experience. So, whether you're looking to boost morale in the workplace or just want to spend more time with your pet, keep reading to learn how to make the transition from woof to work seamless and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Why bring your dog to work?

Before we dive into the details of how to make the transition to an office dog, let's take a moment to explore why you might want to bring your furry friend to work in the first place. For starters, having your dog by your side can help reduce stress and anxiety, both for you and your colleagues. Studies have shown that petting a dog can release oxytocin, a hormone that can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. In fact 58% of young pet owners  support this!

Additionally, having dogs in the workplace can help boost morale and create a more positive work environment. Dogs can help break down barriers between colleagues, encourage socialisation, and even improve job satisfaction. Plus, let's be honest, who doesn't love getting a little extra cuddle time with their furry friend during the workday? 

Preparing your dog for the office environment

Before you bring your dog to the office, it's important to make sure that they're prepared for the new environment. Start by making sure that your dog is up to date on all of their vaccinations and is in good health. You don't want to bring a sick dog into the office and risk spreading germs to your colleagues.

Next, start getting your dog used to being around new people and in new environments. Consider taking them to a dog park or a pet-friendly store (leashed dogs are always welcome in our store) to help them get used to new sights, sounds, and smells. You can also practice obedience training to help your dog learn how to behave appropriately in a new environment.

Finally, consider bringing some of your dog's favourite toys or treats to the office to help keep them calm and comfortable. Having familiar items around can help reduce your dog's anxiety and make the transition to the office environment a little easier.

Office policies and etiquette for dogs

Before you bring your dog to the office, it's important to make sure that your workplace is dog-friendly and that there are no policies prohibiting pets in the office. Some workplaces may require that you provide proof of vaccination or require your dog to be on a leash at all times.

Once you've determined that your workplace is dog-friendly, it's important to follow proper etiquette when it comes to your furry friend. Be sure to clean up after your dog and keep them away from any areas where food is being prepared or consumed. Additionally, make sure that your dog is not disrupting other colleagues or causing a distraction. If your dog is barking or being overly active, it may be best to take them for a walk or give them a break in a quiet area.

Setting up your dog's workspace

When it comes to setting up your dog's workspace, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure that your dog has a comfortable place to rest. Consider bringing in a dog bed or blanket to help your furry friend feel at home. Additionally, make sure that your dog has access to water and plenty of toys to keep them occupied throughout the day.

It's also important to make sure that your dog's workspace is safe and secure. Make sure that any cords or wires are out of reach, and that any potentially hazardous items are stored away. Additionally, make sure that your dog is not able to escape from the office or wander into any restricted areas. Consider packing a pet playpen to ensure they are safe if your are busy.

Managing your dog's behaviour in the office

One of the most important things to keep in mind when bringing your dog to the office is managing their behaviour. While your furry friend may be well-behaved at home, the new environment and new people may cause them to act differently. It's important to be aware of your dog's behaviour and take steps to address any issues that arise.

Consider starting with shorter workdays to help your dog get used to the new environment. You can gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the office as they become more comfortable. Additionally, be sure to provide plenty of breaks and opportunities for your dog to stretch their legs and go for a walk.

If your dog is having difficulty adjusting to the office environment, consider working with a professional trainer to help address any behavioural issues. A trainer can help you develop a plan to address any issues and ensure that your dog is happy and comfortable in the office.

Tips for a smooth transition with your dog

To help make the transition from woof to work as smooth as possible, here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:

Communicate with your colleagues: Make sure that your colleagues are aware that you'll be bringing your dog to work. This can help ensure that everyone is prepared and comfortable with the new arrangement.

Be patient: It may take some time for your dog to adjust to the new environment. Be patient and give them plenty of time to settle in.

Take breaks: Make sure that your dog has plenty of opportunities to take

breaks and go for walks throughout the day.

Reward good behaviour: Positive reinforcement can go a long way when it comes to managing your dog's behaviour in the office. Consider using treats or praise to reward good behaviour.

Pack the essentials for your office dog!

Make sure that you are prepared for all pet related incidents and accidents that may occur. The following is a list of what to pack for your dogs first day at the office:

• Food 
• Foood & water bowl
• Bed or mat
• Puppy playpen
• Collar, lead and ID tag
• Treats (to reward good behaviour)
• Cleaning sprays and waste bags in case of accidents!
• Comforter toy
• Chew toy

Benefits of having dogs in the workplace

There are a number of benefits to having dogs in the workplace. In addition to reducing stress and boosting morale, dogs can also help create a more positive work environment. They can encourage socialisation and collaboration between colleagues, and even help improve job satisfaction.

Furthermore, having dogs in the workplace can be a great way to attract and retain employees. A pet-friendly workplace can be a huge draw for pet owners, and can even help improve employee loyalty and retention.

Common challenges and how to overcome them

Of course, there are also some challenges associated with bringing your dog to work. Some dogs may have difficulty adjusting to the new environment, while others may have trouble with separation anxiety if their owner is away from their desk for too long.

To overcome these challenges, it's important to be patient and consistent with your training. Consider working with a professional trainer to help address any issues that arise, and make sure to provide plenty of breaks and opportunities for your dog to rest and recharge throughout the day.

Success stories of dogs in the workplace

There are countless success stories of dogs in the workplace. From reducing stress and improving morale to helping create a more positive work environment, dogs can be a huge asset to any workplace. In fact, some companies have even gone so far as to allow dogs in the office on a regular basis, and have seen a significant improvement in employee satisfaction as a result.