Working from home means that you get to spend more time with your dog. If you are settling into working part-time or full-time remotely, you may have the challenge of keeping productive when your pooch is irresistibly demanding attention.
With a bit of planning, working at home with your dog at your side can be absolute bliss. Here are 4 tips to help you enjoy the benefit of being with your dog and working at home with minimal distraction.
1. Working At Home With Your Dog Requires Meeting Your Dog’s Needs First
Dedicate enough time to meet your dog’s needs before starting work. Start with exercising your dog. Some dogs require more exercise than others depending on their energy levels. Play with them and give them attention. Feed them and make sure their water bowl is clean and has enough fresh water for the day.
It is important to establish and stick to this routine of attending to your dog first and then starting work. This way, your dog will be less likely to demand attention while you are busy with your work.
2. Have A Designated Doggy Workspace
When it is time to start working, having a safe space for your dog to stay in will suit both of your needs. Consider crate training them, having a doggy gate, or a playpen.
Their area must be equipped with cozy bedding, chew toys, and water. Some dogs get settled just by having a bed next to you.
Wherever their napping/chewing space is, ensure all power cables or any other items are dog-proof. If your dog simply does not have any office etiquette, consider having them in a different room or take them for some training lessons.
3. Schedule In Regular Doggy Breaks
Getting up every hour or so to attend to your dog is not only necessary but it will also benefit your work productivity. Firstly, it is healthy for your body to get up and move from the sitting position.
Secondly, taking short breaks from concentration is good for your mind and reduces stress. What better way of doing this than spending quality time with your dog.
During your doggy breaks, you should first see if your dog needs a loo break. Going for a leisurely walk, playing ball, or having a cuddle session is a much better escape than what you’d be limited to doing at the office.
4. Manage Your Dog’s Time During Virtual Meetings
Your dog may take their role of helping you at work too seriously and express their opinion by barking during your virtual meeting. People are generally understanding of this.
The most important thing to remember is not to scold your dog if they bark. The best way to deal with this is, firstly, to stay calm if it happens, and, secondly, to keep consistent with your schedule.
Take your dog for their break before the meeting and give them something to chew for during the meeting. Also, do not pamper your dog every time they ask for attention.
This will prevent them from acting out during a virtual meeting. Being consistent in your dog’s training and routine will work towards a better long-term result. Even if you have a bad day, do not give up. It will take time for your dog to adjust.
Working At Home With Your Dog Is Bliss
If you think about it, the time management required of working at home with your dog will only improve your work productivity. Meeting your dog’s daily needs forces you to have that work-life balance everybody longs for.
Also, being superb listeners, your dog will be the best colleague you have ever had!
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