Preparing Your Dog for Their First Day at the Office: A Complete Guide
More Kiwi workplaces are opening their doors to our four-legged friends, creating dog-friendly offices that appeal to pet lovers and pups alike. If you're planning your dog's debut at work, congratulations — you're one paw closer to blending work and wagging tails! At Petdirect, we get pet, which is why we’ve rounded up everything you need to make your dog’s first office visit tail-waggingly smooth, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
Check In With Your Workplace Policies First
Before bringing your dog to work, review your office’s pet policy. Are dogs allowed every day, or just on pet-specific Fridays? Be mindful of co-workers who may have allergy concerns or may feel unsure around dogs. Having your dog at work is a privilege, so creating a respectful, dog-friendly culture is key to keeping paws welcome in the long run.
Pack Their Office Essentials
Just like you bring your laptop and lunch, your dog needs their own office supplies. Here’s a handy checklist to get started:
- A comfy dog bed or crate for naps
- Plenty of fresh water using a spill-proof water bowl
- Meals or snacks packed in a secure dog food container
- A few training treats to reward good behaviour
- A lead and safe harness for walks around the office block
- Toys like plush toys or interactive toys to bust boredom
- Poop bags – because accidents happen!
Help Your Dog Feel Calm And Safe
New spaces, new smells, and heaps of unfamiliar people can be overwhelming. Ease your dog into their new work environment by starting with short visits. You might also consider calming aids and supplements to help reduce anxiety. Products like Adaptil diffusers or calming chews may be helpful for managing stress.
If your dog is still a puppy or new to training, check out our puppy training essentials to reinforce cues like "sit", "stay" and "quiet", which can be incredibly handy in busy spaces.
Keep The Office Fun, Not Distracting
While a friendly pup can be the highlight of the workday, make sure your dog isn’t a constant distraction. Provide quiet enrichment, like chew toys or puzzle feeders, that they can enjoy quietly beside your desk. Regular toilet breaks and a lunchtime stroll help too — every paw-rent knows a tired dog is a well-behaved dog!
Bringing a dog to the office also makes you an unofficial pet ambassador. Always clean up after your pooch, respect shared spaces, and never assume every co-worker is comfortable around dogs — some may prefer tails remain at home.
Trial Runs & Off-Duty Time Are Just As Important
Before their big first day, do a few short visits or mock office set-ups at home. This helps your dog adjust to staying calm by your side while you're working. Then set clear "off duty" times — once you’re home, reconnect with play and healthy treats to reward them for navigating their job as Chief Morale Booster.
If you’re prepping from puppyhood, the Puppy Shop has everything you need to get started.
Making Your Dog’s Office Debut A Success
Preparing your dog for their first day at the office is all about planning, patience, and knowing your pup. With the right gear, a calm mindset, and support from your workplace, it can be a positive experience that brings a little extra joy and wag to the 9-to-5. At Petdirect, we get pet — and we’re here to help make every workday your dog’s best day.
Ready to get packing? Explore dog travel essentials, browse our accessories & toys, and earn rewards with our Pet Perks loyalty programme.