Good Advice
Why take your dog to work?
If you’re able to, taking your dog to work is a wonderful way for colleagues to meet your waggy companion, and it can bring plenty of benefits too:
• Dogs in the workplace can lift spirits and reduce stress levels
• Being at work stimulates your dog mentally and helps build their confidence in new environments
Before you and your four-legged friend head into the office, there are a few things to think about to make sure it’s a positive experience for everyone.
Preparing to take your dog to work
Before setting off, make sure your dog has been to the loo, and plan ahead for regular comfort breaks once you’re at work. A nearby green space is ideal, giving them the chance to stretch their legs and enjoy a good sniff. And don’t forget to check where you’ll be able to dispose of poo bags before you arrive — it saves any awkward moments later. Keeping on top of breaks will help avoid accidents in the office and make sure your dog stays comfortable throughout the day.
What to pack when you take your dog to work
Take your dog’s bed along to work so they have a cosy space that smells of home. This will help them feel reassured and give them somewhere to take a much-needed snooze. Position the bed near you but away from busy walkways — they won’t get much rest if they’re next to the recycling bin.
Bring a few toys or chews to keep your dog occupied during the day and to prevent them from making their own entertainment. Preparing a Kong in advance is a great idea: soak some kibble in water, stuff it into the toy and freeze it. Offering it frozen makes it last longer and provides valuable mental stimulation.
How will my dog find it?
Don’t expect too much from your dog on their first visit. Meeting new people in a new environment can feel overwhelming, even for confident dogs, so take it slowly and focus on making it a positive experience. Give them time to take in the sights and sounds of your workplace, and keep things calm and relaxed by offering gentle reassurance as they explore.
Even if your dog has been to the office before, a long spell at home might mean they need time to adjust again. Changes such as new layouts, pods or break-out areas can all feel unfamiliar, so allow your dog time to explore and find a place where they feel settled. If you’re heading into a meeting, think about what will help your dog feel secure. Bringing their bed into the room can give them a familiar, comfortable spot to relax while you focus.
And finally, while your dog’s welfare comes first, it’s also important to consider the people you work with. Creating a positive experience for everyone will make “dogs at work” a success.
How to introduce your dog to your colleagues
A fun way to prepare your colleagues is to introduce your dog in advance. This could be a card, a short email, a sheet or even a little video with their name, breed, likes and dislikes. Sharing details such as whether your dog prefers a scratch under the chin rather than a pat on the head can help everyone get things right from the start.
Remember, while your dog may love jumping up or giving big licks, not everyone will appreciate it in the same way. Take time to chat with colleagues beforehand to understand their confidence and preferences around dogs. Ask your dog to sit when greeting people, and you could even hand out small pots of treats for colleagues to offer, encouraging polite behaviour. Just remember to reduce your dog’s normal food slightly to balance out the extra rewards.
Be thoughtful about the treats you bring too. Fish-flavoured snacks might be your dog’s favourite, but your colleagues may not enjoy the smell quite so much.
Finally, don’t be surprised if your dog is very tired when you get home. A day full of new sights, sounds and people will be exhausting for them, and they’ll need time to rest and dream about all their exciting experiences.
Help support our life-changing work...
Imagine if everyday tasks were so challenging or physically demanding they affected your quality of life. For many people living with a disability or families with a child with autism, that is their reality. Now imagine if a specially trained four-legged friend could restore your, or your family’s, independence.
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