10 Tips for Caring for a Dog or Puppy While You're at Work

You have wonderful work, a terrific social life, and supportive family and friends, but there's something lacking. You've always loved dogs and want nothing more than to have your own to care for, so you're asking, "Can I get a dog if I work all day?" Bringing a dependent dog into your home only to leave them alone at home while you're at work feels harsh.

Having a dog while working full-time may not be for everyone, but if you're ready to think outside the box and try a few different tactics to make sure everyone's needs are satisfied, you can make it work. If you've set your heart on rescuing or buying a new dog or puppy but are concerned about your work obligations, keep reading for 10 ways to care for a dog or puppy while working.

Making Plans For Your Dog's Care While You're Away From Home

Carefully select your breed.

This tip will not apply to you if you already have a dog. If you're thinking about adopting a dog and you're asking, "Should I get a dog if I work all day?" One of the greatest things you can do is conduct some research on different dog breeds and pick one that will perform well when you're gone for the majority of the day.

When left alone during the day, certain dog breeds demand more human interaction than others, making them more likely to experience separation anxiety. Other dog breeds are more independent and can tolerate long periods of time alone with ease. Before you start looking for rescue dogs, do some research so you can remain objective during your search.

Bring Your Pet To Work

This idea may not be applicable to everyone, but in some cases, you may be permitted to bring your dog to work with you. If you work outside, in a family-friendly atmosphere, or spend a significant amount of time driving your own car as part of your job, you may be able to answer the issue, "What should I do with my puppy when I go to work?" by simply bringing your dog or puppy with you.

You Can Work From Home

More and more businesses are accepting the idea of employees telecommuting one or more days per week. When contacting your supervisor about the possibility of working from home, emphasize the benefits to the firm, such as increased efficiency, increased productivity, freed up office space, and less drain on corporate resources.

Before you leave, get some exercise.

Set your dog up for success by giving them a high-energy exercise session before you go to work if you anticipate them to sleep through the day while you're at work. Even if it means waking up half an hour earlier than usual, commit to investing a significant amount of time to a high-energy play or a run – something in addition to their regular morning walk – to enhance the likelihood that your dog will sleep and rest for the most of the day.

Lunch will be served at home.

If you're concerned about having a dog while working 9 to 5, see if you can come home during your lunch break. Even if you only have a few minutes at home between work and home, there will be enough time to check in with your dog, let them out for a potty break, replenish their food and water bowls, and give them a quick play to let them burn off some steam before being left alone after lunch. If you don't have time to eat at this break, try eating during your commute or later in the day at your desk.

Assist Your Dog In Staying At Home

A Food and Water Dispenser that is Automated

If you're wondering how to care for your dog while you're at work, one of your first concerns will be ensuring that your dog has enough food and drink throughout the day. If your dog is accustomed to eating several small meals throughout the day – or if your puppy is prone to tipping over or digging in their water bowl – an automated food and water dispenser will give you peace of mind by ensuring that your dog has access to food and water at predetermined times throughout the day.

Access To The House And Backyard Is Simple

It could be a better idea to keep your dog in the backyard while you're at work so you don't have to worry about accidents on your floor when you get home. Unfortunately, keeping a dog outside while at work has the disadvantage of exposing your dog to rain, hail, or snow, as well as becoming overheated during the warmer months. Consider installing a magnetic or electric doggy door to allow your dog to spend time both inside and outside during the day.

An Indoor Potty

You shouldn't have to worry about accidents while you're away if your dog is kept outside while you're at work or has access to both indoor and outdoor places. However, if you plan on keeping a dog in an apartment while you're at work, you'll need to make arrangements for them to relieve themselves during the day.

While some dogs can go for up to eight hours without needing to go potty, this may not be a realistic expectation on a daily basis. You can purchase indoor potty options, or you can create your own with absorbent puppy pads and a strip of artificial turf.

Toys That Are Automated

If you're looking for something to do with your dog while you're at work, you might want to look into the automated toys available for dogs. If your dog enjoys catching balls, a ball throwing machine can provide hours of entertainment in your backyard. Dogs who enjoy chasing could have a lot of fun with an electronic wobble ball, or seek for dog-friendly battery-operated robot toys.

An Animal Companion

Adopting another dog to keep your dog company while you're at work may sound contradictory, but it's one of the greatest ways to leave your dog at home while you're at work. This is, of course, a huge commitment that should not be taken lightly; but, the benefits of providing your dog with friendship, joy, and company throughout the day can be significant.

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