Should you take your dog to work?



Wouldn't it be great if you could have your best friend at your side, even while you're at work? Not only would you and your dog be able to have some additional bonding time, but you wouldn't have to rush home on your lunch hour or after work to take him for a walk. Plus, it's an excellent opportunity for your dog to improve his socialization skills with all the new faces and experiences. While all of this sounds ideal, there are a few things you should consider first before you make a permanent home for your dog's basket beside your desk.
 
Get clearance from your employer. Your boss may be concerned that having your dog accompany you to work will be a distraction, either to you or to other employees. You need to reassure your employer that your dog is well-trained and will not cause any disruptions.
 
Assess the environment. If you work in a cubicle or in an open area, your dog may be more of an obstacle than a welcome addition. The best case scenario would be if you have your own office, so you can at least close the door if you need to. To get your dog used to your workplace beforehand, try taking your dog in on the weekend so he can get used to the smells and the environment. You'll also want to doggie proof your office by putting any objects out of reach that might look like tempting chew toys.
 
Be considerate of your coworkers. While it might be hard to imagine, not everyone is a dog lover. Bear in mind that there people who are allergic to dogs, while others are simply afraid of them. Talk to your coworkers prior to bringing in your dog. If you come across too much opposition, it would be best to just leave your dog at home. If you do get the 'all clear', you might want to give your dog a bath the day before to help your dog make a nice, clean first impression.
 
Is your dog well-trained? If you're having trouble with your dog's behavior (for example, aggression, anxiety or housetraining issues), it's not a good idea to bring your dog to work. You should only bring your dog to work if you can be certain he'll be on his best behavior. If he isn't, not only will your dog's chances of a second visit be reduced, your own professionalism might be under question.
 
Have enough to keep your dog occupied. You'll need to provide your dog with more than just a bed and a bowl of water. Make sure you have enough food to get your dog through the day. You'll also want to bring a supply of toys, some treats to reward him for his good behavior, and of course, his leash. Be sure to have plenty of fresh water on hand as well.
 
Frequent breaks are a must. Don't leave your dog alone for extended periods of time. Make sure he gets out for walks and bathroom breaks.