Bringing your dog to work can be a fun experience for you and your dog. However, to ensure a pleasant environment for everyone, it’s important to follow some basic office dog etiquette. Here’s what every dog owner should know to make the office a happy place for both humans and dogs.

Understand your workplace's dog policy

Before bringing your dog to the office, it’s important to understand and comply with your workplace’s dog policy. Some offices may have specific rules and guidelines about the behaviour of dogs allowed. Make sure to review these policies thoroughly to avoid any issues. If your workplace doesn’t currently allow dogs, consider discussing the possibility with HR, emphasising the benefits and proposing a trial period.

Your dog's suitability for the office

Not all dogs are suited for the office environment. Consider your dog’s temperament and behaviour. Is your dog well-behaved, socialised, and comfortable around strangers and other dogs? Dogs that are prone to anxiety or barking may not be suitable for the office. Ensure your dog is house-trained and can handle the office routine without causing disruptions.

Your dog's hygiene

A clean and healthy dog is essential for maintaining a pleasant office environment. Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and free from parasites like fleas and ticks. Regular grooming is also important to minimise shedding and keep your dog looking and smelling fresh. Bring along some cleaning supplies to promptly address any accidents or messes your dog might make.

Check out the Mipuchi dog perfume to keep your dog smelling fresh.

Respect allergies and phobias

Some of your colleagues may have allergies or phobias related to dogs. Be respectful and considerate of their needs. Communicate with your team in advance to ensure that having a dog in the office won’t cause discomfort or health issues for anyone. If necessary, keep your dog confined to a designated area or discuss alternative arrangements with your colleagues. Be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments as needed.

Provide a comfortable space

Create a designated space for your dog in the office where they can feel safe and comfortable. Bring a bed, blanket, or crate for your dog to relax in, along with their favourite toys to keep them entertained. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water and schedule regular bathroom breaks to prevent accidents. Avoid placing your dog’s area in high-traffic zones to minimise stress and disruptions.

Bringing your dog to work can be a rewarding experience, but it requires preparation. By keeping the above points in mind, dogs in the office can potentially be a permanent fixture for your workplace.