5 tips for bringing your dog to the office

At Setting, we love our office dogs. Each one of them brings absolute joy to the office. From Coco, the ever-enthusiastic golden retriever to Skinny, the office queen, our furry friends have become an integral part of our workplace culture. Let’s not forget our beauties, Hayle and Bali, who along with the others, bring happiness, reduce stress, and somehow always know when someone needs a comforting paw or a playful distraction.

But as much as we adore our four-legged colleagues, we've also put careful thought into our office policy for dogs. Here at Setting, we’ve learned that a successful pet-friendly workplace requires more than just simply opening our doors to our canine companions. We’ve learned that it's also about creating an environment that's comfortable and safe for both our human and furry team members. Here are five essential tips for bringing your dog to the office:

1. Make sure your dog is well-behaved and groomed

The first step is a very obvious one: before introducing your dog to the office environment, make sure they have mastered basic training commands. Your dog should be able to sit, stay, and behave when instructed. They should also be a pro at saying no—essential for resisting the temptation of that half-eaten sandwich in the kitchen trash. 

Grooming and cleanliness are often overlooked but are essential for a harmonious office environment. Regular brushing not only keeps your dog looking smart but also reduces shedding, which your coworkers will appreciate. Pay special attention to your dog's paws: keeping nails trimmed prevents clicking sounds on hard floors and potential scratches on furniture. A quick wipe-down with pet-friendly grooming wipes before heading to the office can help control any doggy odors.

2. Familiarize your dog with the commute

Your dog's workday doesn't start at the office door—it begins the moment you both leave home. A stress-free commute sets the tone for a positive day, so it's important to help your pup become a seasoned commuter. Consider your dog's comfort during the journey. A cozy travel bed or mat can give them a familiar spot to relax. For longer commutes, pack a spill-proof water bowl and some treats. If your dog tends to get anxious, consult with your vet about calming aids or techniques. And don’t forget to always carry waste bags—being a responsible pet owner extends beyond the office walls.

3. Prepare a dog-friendly workspace

Just as you wouldn't show up to work without your laptop or favorite coffee mug, your dog needs their own toolkit for a successful day at the office. First thing is first: location, location, location. Scout out a quiet corner of your workspace, preferably away from the office Keurig machine and that one coworker who insists on eating tuna every day. Your dog's area should be their oasis of calm in the sea of workplace chaos.

Don't forget the essentials too: a spill-proof water bowl, a selection of quiet toys, and maybe a puzzle feeder to keep them entertained during long meetings and at ease. And consider bringing in a piece of home, like a familiar blanket or toy. This can help your dog feel more secure in their new environment.

4. Be aware of other office dogs 

Just like in the human world, office politics can get a bit hairy when it comes to canine coworkers. So, before bringing your dog in, find out about the other office pups. Are they big or small? Young or old? Do any have special needs or quirks? This intel will help you prepare your dog for their new social circle.

Next, arrange some neutral territory meet-and-greets. Set up some outdoor or lobby introductions where dogs can sniff each other out in a low-pressure environment. And brush up on your dog's body language skills. It’s important to recognize the signs of a happy, relaxed dog versus a stressed or aggressive one.

5. Cover your paws—literally and figuratively

Nobody wants to be in the doghouse because of a canine accident, be it an unexpected bite or scratch. To avoid any type of accident or misgiving, first check your company's insurance policy. Does it cover incidents involving dogs? If not, it might be time for your HR department to look into an upgrade. 

Moreover, on the policy level, consider creating a company-wide policy for office dogs.  A well-crafted policy should cover all the bases. Start with the basics: which dogs are allowed? When are they allowed, and where they're allowed (Everywhere? Designated areas only?) Therein, include a section on owner responsibilities. This could cover everything from cleaning up accidents to ensuring their dog doesn't distract other employees. Managers might want to implement a "three strikes" rule for dogs that consistently misbehave.

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