Working from Home Tips with Dogs

Working from home has its benefits, but it also brings on a whole new batch of distractions. And for pet parents, one of the biggest distractions out there is our canine companions. Like many of us do, our pups thrive on a schedule with consistent routines. So, to help make working at home a bit more manageable with your furry friend around, here are some tips on how to set up a schedule that benefits both of you. 

Schedule Designated Play Times

It’s a lot easier than we may think to start playing with Fido and lose track of time – and then do so again several times throughout the day. To help limit your distractions, it can help to make playtime a part of your routine and schedule. That way, your pooch will know that playtime is coming eventually, and you won’t be preoccupied the whole day. Plus, it’ll keep you more on track when it comes to working. 

Make Your Work-Space Dog-Free

To help you stay focused on work, it’s best to make your office space a pup-free zone. Although this can be difficult, it’s the best way to limit your distractions. Plus, after a week or so, your pooch will understand that you’ll be “away” during designated hours, similar to how you were when you left your home for work. So, don’t worry about your pooch getting upset – as long as you make it a solid part of your routine and stick to it, your canine companion will be perfectly fine. 

Keep Fido Occupied 

The best way to ensure your pooch isn’t distracting you is to make sure they’re distracted by something else. If your canine gets bored or anxious, they could also end up becoming destructive, so that’s another excellent reason for keeping them occupied. A great way to start is by exhausting your pooch in the morning. Take them on a walk, run, or have a long play session so that they’re all tuckered out for the majority of the morning. Then when they’re ready to play again, have mentally stimulating puzzles, kong toys, and other things for them to play with to keep them preoccupied until you can play with them again. 

While working from home does have plenty of upsides, it still does come with some downsides – one being your adorable dog distracting you. But, if you create a well-tailored schedule and stick to that routine, you should be working peacefully and undistracted in no time.