But is bringing your dog to work really as great as it sounds? I’m not here to rain on anyone’s parade, but I do think there’s a lot more to consider before jumping on the “dogs at work” bandwagon. In fact, based on my experience as a dog owner and someone who has worked in pet-friendly environments, I’m going to share why this trend may not be the miracle solution it’s hyped up to be.

Everyone’s talking about the benefits, but few are talking about the potential downsides. Don’t get me wrong, I love the idea of having my pup by my side while I work. But when I think about her needs—and the reality of an office environment—I’m not so sure it would be the best move for either of us.

If you’re considering bringing your dog to work or wondering if it’s right for your office, keep reading. I’m diving into why it’s not always a good idea and sharing some things you should seriously think about before packing up your dog for that 9-to-5 life.

For instance:

• Nervous or Anxious Dogs: If your dog is sensitive to noise, strangers, or new environments, bringing them to work could stress them out. Barking at every unfamiliar sound, person, or scent could disrupt not just your workday, but everyone else’s too. I’ve seen dogs who simply couldn’t settle in an office environment and spent the day pacing, barking, or whining.
• Distraction Overload: Even if your dog is usually calm, the sheer number of distractions in an office—people coming in and out, deliveries, phone calls—could keep them on edge all day. Instead of getting work done, you could find yourself constantly managing your dog’s anxiety or excitement.
• Not Everyone’s a Dog Lover: I know it’s hard to believe, but not everyone loves dogs. Some people may be allergic, afraid, or simply prefer to keep their workspace pet-free. This can create tension in the office, especially if your dog’s presence is disruptive or makes others uncomfortable.
• Work Distractions for You: As much as we love our dogs, they can be demanding. From needing bathroom breaks to attention, bringing them to work means you’ll likely have more interruptions than you’re used to. This could affect your focus and productivity.

In fact, I’ve experienced this first-hand. I once worked in a dog-friendly office where my coworker brought in her dog—a sweet, but high-energy retriever. As much as we all loved the dog, it became a constant source of distraction. People couldn’t resist stopping by to pet him, and the poor pup would get anxious whenever left alone while his owner went into meetings. The vibe shifted from fun to stressful very quickly.

How Does Your Dog Handle New Environments?
Does your dog get anxious or excited in new places? An office can be a lot for a dog to take in, especially if they’re used to the quiet of home. If your dog tends to get nervous or overwhelmed, the office may not be the right fit.

What’s the Layout of Your Office?
Some offices are simply not designed for pets. Do you have a private space where your dog can rest undisturbed, or will they be out in the open, exposed to constant activity? Dogs need a place to retreat when they’re feeling overstimulated.

What’s Your Backup Plan?
What will you do if your dog doesn’t adjust well to the office? It’s always a good idea to have a plan B, whether it’s arranging for a dog walker or setting up a quiet area for your dog in the office where they can feel safe.

Are Your Co-Workers on Board?
Not everyone in the office may be thrilled about having dogs around. Make sure you’re considering the comfort and needs of your colleagues before bringing your dog into shared spaces.

My Take: It’s Not a Fit for Every Dog (Or Every Workplace)

For dogs like mine—and perhaps yours—the chaos of an office can be overwhelming. And for the people in the office, it can become a distraction that gets in the way of productivity. The key is to know your dog’s temperament and recognize what’s best for them.

Here’s what I do instead: I’ve arranged for a professional dog walker to take her on midday walks while I’m at work. This way, she gets her exercise, and I get peace of mind knowing she’s cared for. And when I get home, I can fully enjoy our time together without worrying that she’s been cooped up all day.

What You Can Do Instead

If your dog isn’t suited for office life, that’s totally fine! There are plenty of ways to make sure they’re happy, healthy, and well-exercised during the day without bringing them to work.

Key Takeaways

While bringing dogs to work may be the latest trend, it’s not always the best choice for every dog or every office. Before making the leap, consider your dog’s needs, temperament, and how they’ll handle the office environment. And remember, there are plenty of other ways to make sure your dog stays happy and well-cared for while you’re at work.