The Do’s And Don’ts Of Bringing Your Dog To Work

EmberAtlas Updated: 2025-11-02

5. Don't: Wait Too Long Between Walkies

One of the most important elements of good pet ownership is making sure your dog gets regular restroom breaks and exercise when you bring it to work. Too long intervals between "walkies" could cause a lot of issues for your dog as well as for you and your colleagues. Establishing a regular schedule for restroom breaks and quick walks helps you to keep your dog comfortable, healthy and well-adjusted in the office.
First and most importantly, think on your dog's regular home bathroom schedule. Most dogs are used to first thing in the morning, after meals, and before nightfall going outside. But in a new setting like an office, enthusiasm could cause your dog to require more frequent breaks.
Generally speaking, adult dogs should be let to relieve themselves every 4 to 6 hours; senior dogs and puppies may need more regular intervals. These are only rules, nevertheless, therefore you should pay great attention to the particular requirements and signs of your dog. While some dogs may need more frequent visits, others may pick up bladder holding for longer stretches of time quite fast.
Ignoring your dog's demand for consistent toilet breaks might cause a number of problems. First of all, an office presents clear risk for accidents. Not only is this humiliating and possibly destructive to office space, but it can also cause hygienic issues and discomfort for your colleagues. Even if your dog is well-trained, forcing them to retain their bladder for long lengths of time can cause urinary tract infections or other health issues.
Furthermore, frequent walks have uses other than only those of potty breaks. For your dog, they give required mental and physical stimulation as well as exercise. A dog kept in an office all day without enough exercise is more prone to grow restless, agitated, or even disruptive. Short walks throughout the day can help burn off extra energy, therefore lowering the possibility of undesirable behaviour including too aggressive barking, chewing, or attention-seeking.
These walks also provide a great chance for you to have quick breaks from work, so enhancing your personal output and well-being. When you get back to your work, a brief walk outside can help you focus better, relax, and clear your head. For your pet and you, it's a win-win scenario.
Think about programming reminders on your phone or computer to make sure you don't wait too long between walkies. Plan according to your dog's needs and your own job obligations. You might schedule a brief toilet break every two hours, for instance, with a lengthier lunch break walk.
Furthermore crucial is your dog's cue interpretation and your own flexibility. Don't wait if you see your dog becoming restless, pacing, whimpering, or displaying other indicators of needing to go out. Reacting quickly to these cues will help your dog feel more at ease in the office and support appropriate behaviour.
Plan your dog's walks keeping in mind your colleagues. Time your breaks so they don't interfere with critical meetings or group projects. If at all possible, team with other dog-owning colleagues to alternately monitor a small group of dogs on walks, therefore guaranteeing that work output is not much affected.
Finally, always have the tools you need ready for walks. Keep immediately available a leash, trash bags, and maybe a small towel (for cleaning muddy paws). Being ready will help you to balance your professional obligations with the demands of your dog so that these regular trips go more smoothly and efficiently.
Regular walkies and not waiting too long between breaks will help you to make sure your dog stays happy, healthy, and well-adjusted for the workplace. This strategy will help to keep the office pet-friendly and contribute to a great experience for all those engaged.