Working from home with dogs: How to keep them chill while you work

by Sally Gallegos 02/25/2024

While working from home with your pets, it’s often a good idea to give them some room of their own to help minimize your distractions. However, creating a relaxing environment for them can be a little tricky, especially if you happen to have a very involved dog.

Here are a few quick ways to build a dog house that your pup will love relaxing in while you hammer away at your daily tasks:

Build for your dog’s size

Most dog houses can fit your average-sized dog. However, for those with large and giant breed dogs, your average dog house may not be enough to comfortably seat your dog’s body and give them space to run around. Enter custom-builds.

There are several, step-by-step instructions and customized dog house options for large dogs available online and at local pet stores, craft stores and home improvement stores with pet supplies. You want to ensure your pup has enough room to get up, move around, lie down and stretch.

Consider the temperature on the floor

Typically, dogs enjoy lying on a cold ground during the warmer months or in climates where warmer months are all year round. However, for those living in colder climates where the ground isn’t cold but frigid, you may want to add a little insulation to help keep them warm.

When creating your dog’s break room, try adding a cooling mat if you live in an area with a lot of heat. For those who live with a lot of cold or fluctuating temperatures, it may be a good idea to incorporate a few different bedding options, such as thermal blankets or cotton padding.

Keeping your dog at a comfortable temperature can also help them relax instead of pacing around to find that perfect warmth or coolness.

Keep your dog house close

It’s no secret that dogs enjoy being close to their owners. With that in mind, you may be a little too busy to give your pooch the attention they want at the time. By keeping your dog’s relaxation area close to you, you can help keep them calm when they want to know where you are and what you’re doing.

Likewise, it’s also a great opportunity to help them learn how to stay calm. Try incorporating a few treats when your dog finds their perfect place and calms themselves down. Once calm, offer your pooch the treat and a soft pat on the head or their favorite spot behind the ear.

This will not only help your dog relax by being in proximity to you, but can also help ease your mind if your pup is particularly nosey.

When creating your dog’s house, just basic building skills and crafting skills will do. Try using these tips when you start building your dog’s relaxation corner. You’ll both be glad you did.

About the Author
Author

Sally Gallegos

There's No Place Like Your Home!

Originally from Liberal Kansas, Sally Gallegos has lived in Colorado since she was 8 years old, making her almost a native and very familiar with the Colorado market. Sally and her husband celebrate over 16 years of marriage. Together they have 4 adult children and 3 grandchildren. One grandson and two granddaughters. When not assisting client, Sally enjoys camping, fishing, reading and spending time with family and friends.