Pet-friendly office: how to prepare

More and more Italian companies are allowing dogs in the office.

But: preparation is necessary.

Let’s see how.

The "suitable" breeds for the office

Calm breeds:

  • French Bulldog.
  • Cavalier King Charles.
  • Bernese Mountain Dog.
  • Greyhound.
  • Bulldog.

Breeds "no":

  • Border Collie (hyperactive).
  • Husky.
  • Jack Russell.
  • Very vocal breeds.

Preparing your dog

Minimum age

1 year ideally:

  • Too energetic puppy.

Basic commands

Necessary:

  • Sit.
  • Down.
  • Stay.
  • Come.
  • Leave it.
  • Quiet (crucial).

Socialization

Suitable for:

  • Strangers.
  • Noises.
  • Movement.

Office equipment

Bed/mat:

  • Under the desk.

Water bowls:

  • Always available.

Snacks to keep occupied:

  • Stuffed Kong.

Cleaning wipes.

Poop bags.

Daily routine

Pre-office:

  • Long walk (60+ min).
  • Tired dog.

In the office:

  • Under the desk.
  • Light lunch meal.
  • Bathroom breaks every 3-4 hours.

Post-office:

  • Important release.

The relationship with colleagues

Very polite:

  • Dog does not disturb.
  • Clean up any "incidents".

Allergic:

  • Distance.
  • Understanding.

The "trial" preparation

Week 1-2:

  • 2-3 hours in the office.

Week 3-4:

  • Half a day.

Month 2:

  • Full day.

Signs of stress

Dog not suitable:

  • Vocalizing.
  • Destructive.
  • Peeing in the office.
  • Aggression.

In that case:

  • Dog stays home.
  • Pet sitter.

The truth

A dog in the office is possible with:

  • Suitable breed.
  • Preparation.
  • Training.
  • Equipment.

Investment:

  • Preparation time.
  • Equipment.

Benefit:

  • Dog with you.
  • Reduced loneliness.
  • Deep bonding.

And remember: having a dog in the office is a privilege. Treat colleagues and the company with respect.