National Bring Your Dog to Work Day is more than just a feel-good event—it’s a celebration of the bond between people and their pets. Observed annually in many workplaces, this day encourages companies to open their doors to dogs, helping boost employee morale, reduce stress, and create a more relaxed office environment.
However, bringing dogs into a professional workspace requires planning. Not every office is automatically dog-friendly, and not every dog is ready for an office setting. With the right preparation, tools, and mindset, you can make the day safe, enjoyable, and productive for everyone involved—humans and dogs alike.
In this guide, we’ll cover practical tips, safety considerations, and must-have dog essentials, including modern solutions like the KindTail crate, to help you and your coworkers enjoy National Bring Your Dog to Work Day the right way.
What Is National Bring Your Dog to Work Day?
National Bring Your Dog to Work Day is a workplace event that encourages employees to bring their dogs to the office for the day. Originally created to promote dog adoption and animal welfare, it has grown into a popular tradition embraced by companies worldwide.
Why Companies Support It
Improves employee morale
Reduces workplace stress
Encourages team bonding
Creates a positive, pet-friendly brand image
But success depends on preparation and clear guidelines.
Is Your Dog a Good Fit for the Office?
Before packing your dog’s bag, ask yourself a few honest questions:
Is your dog calm around strangers?
Can they handle new environments without anxiety?
Are they crate-trained or comfortable resting quietly?
Do they respond well to basic commands?
If your dog becomes overly stressed or reactive in busy settings, it may be better to skip the event. The goal is comfort, not pressure.
Preparing Your Dog for Office Life
Start With a Familiar Setup
Dogs feel safest when surrounded by familiar items. Bringing a foldable crate dog setup or a KindTail crate can help recreate a sense of home in an unfamiliar office space.
A crate gives your dog:
A quiet place to rest
Protection from overstimulation
A defined personal area
Modern crates—especially furniture style dog crates—blend well into office décor and don’t feel intrusive in professional environments.
Why a Crate Is Essential for Bring Your Dog to Work Day
Even well-behaved dogs need downtime. Offices are filled with noises, people, and distractions that can overwhelm them.
Benefits of Using a Crate at Work
Encourages calm behavior
Prevents wandering or accidents
Offers a safe retreat during busy moments
A KindTail crate or similar modern, foldable option is ideal because it’s:
Easy to transport
Quick to set up
Stylish enough for office use
Add padding for dog crate comfort to ensure your dog relaxes properly during the workday.
Creating a Comfortable Office Rest Area
Dog Crate Mats and Pads
Comfort is key. Hard floors and long days can be tiring for dogs, so investing in quality dog crate mats and pads is essential.
Look for mats that are:
Cushioned but supportive
Easy to clean
Non-slip
These help reduce joint stress and encourage your dog to rest instead of pacing.
Small Dog Houses for Indoors
For small breeds, small dog houses for indoors can serve as a cozy alternative to traditional crates. These provide:
A den-like feeling
Noise reduction
Visual privacy
They’re especially useful in quieter office corners or under desks.
Hydration and Feeding at the Office
Dog Kennel Water Bottle
Hydration is often overlooked during office events. A dog kennel water bottle is a smart, mess-free solution that:
Attaches to crates
Prevents spills
Ensures constant access to water
This is especially important in air-conditioned offices, where dogs may become dehydrated more quickly.
Travel Bowl for Snacks and Water
A collapsible travel bowl is another must-have. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and perfect for:
Midday water breaks
Treat time
Short walks outside
Having a dedicated bowl helps maintain hygiene and prevents sharing with other dogs.
Office Etiquette: Rules to Follow
For National Bring Your Dog to Work Day to be successful, etiquette matters.
Keep Dogs Leashed When Necessary
Even friendly dogs should be supervised when moving around shared spaces.
Respect Coworkers’ Boundaries
Not everyone is comfortable with dogs. Make sure:
Dogs don’t approach people uninvited
Allergies are respected
Quiet zones remain dog-free
Maintain Cleanliness
Bring:
Waste bags
Cleaning wipes
Paper towels
Accidents happen—even with trained dogs.
Scheduling Breaks and Walks
Dogs need mental and physical breaks. Plan short walks:
Before work starts
During lunch
Mid-afternoon
These breaks reduce restlessness and help dogs remain calm indoors.
Managing Multiple Dogs in One Office
If several employees bring dogs:
Designate dog-friendly zones
Avoid crowding in common areas
Keep crates spaced apart
Each dog should have their own defined area, ideally with a foldable crate dog setup or furniture-style crate.
Safety Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore
Avoid High-Traffic Areas
Printers, elevators, and kitchens can be stressful and unsafe for dogs.
Keep Cables and Trash Out of Reach
Dogs are curious—especially in new environments.
Never Force Interaction
Let dogs interact naturally, or not at all. Forced socialization can lead to stress or conflict.
How KindTail Products Fit Perfectly Into the Office
KindTail products are designed with modern living in mind, making them especially suitable for workplace environments.
Why the KindTail Crate Works for Offices
Minimalist, professional design
Foldable and portable
Comfortable for dogs
Easy to store after the event
When paired with dog crate mats and pads, a dog kennel water bottle, and a travel bowl, you create a complete, office-ready setup.
Making It Fun for Everyone
Organize Dog-Friendly Activities
Short group walks
Photo moments
Treat breaks
Celebrate Responsibly
Keep excitement levels controlled. A calm environment is more enjoyable for dogs and employees alike.
When It’s Better to Sit It Out
It’s okay not to participate. If your dog:
Is anxious in new environments
Has health concerns
Is still in early training
You can still celebrate by sharing photos or supporting local shelters.
Final Thoughts
National Bring Your Dog to Work Day can be an incredible experience when done right. With thoughtful preparation, the right equipment, and respect for both dogs and coworkers, the workplace can become a welcoming, joyful space—at least for a day.
Using modern essentials like a KindTail crate, foldable crate dog solutions, proper padding for dog crate comfort, and practical items like a travel bowl or dog kennel water bottle ensures your dog feels safe, calm, and happy.
