Skip to content Take Your Dog To Work Day falls on the Friday after Father’s Day each year — and it’s one of the most fun workplace traditions dog lovers can enjoy. Whether your office is a corporate building or a home setup, bringing your dog along makes the day better for everyone. So if you’re planning to join in this year, here’s exactly how to make it a great experience — for your dog, your coworkers, and yourself.
Before you pack up your pup, confirm that your workplace actually allows it. Talk to your manager or HR team ahead of time, and ask if any coworkers have allergies or fears around dogs. A little planning goes a long way toward making the day smooth for everyone.
Once you get the green light, find out which areas of the office are dog-friendly. Some spaces may be off-limits for safety or cleanliness reasons. Knowing this in advance helps you avoid awkward situations on the day itself.
Not every dog is ready to walk into a busy office and stay calm. So before Take Your Dog To Work Day, take a few steps to set your pup up for success.
Practice the commute first. If your dog isn’t used to car rides or public transit, do a few trial runs beforehand. You’ll want the trip to the office to feel routine rather than stressful.
Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations. Many workplaces require proof of vaccines before allowing pets on the premises. Having that paperwork ready shows your employer you’re being responsible.
Work on basic commands like sit, stay, and leave it in the days leading up to the event. A dog that responds to simple cues is much easier to manage in a busy environment.
The right gear makes a huge difference. Here’s what to bring along:
Food and water: Pack your dog’s regular food and a travel water bowl. Sticking to their normal diet prevents stomach upset during an already stimulating day.
A comfortable resting spot: A familiar blanket or dog bed gives your pup a place to settle down between all the excitement.
Leash and harness: Keep your dog on a leash throughout the day, even if they’re well-trained. An office setting has too many unpredictable elements to rely on off-leash behavior.
Waste cleanup tools: This one is non-negotiable. If you’ll have outdoor breaks during the day, you need to clean up after your dog — no exceptions. A reliable pooper scooper and a supply of Heavy Dootie Bags keep things clean and show respect for shared spaces.
Pet wipes: Office floors, hallways, and restrooms aren’t the cleanest surfaces. Pack a pack of Heavy Dootie Pet Wipes to wipe your dog’s paws and keep things tidy throughout the day.
Once you’re at the office, create a small, comfortable area near your desk for your dog. Put their bed, water bowl, and a chew toy in that spot so they have a consistent home base.
Try to keep your dog’s space out of high-traffic walkways. Dogs can get anxious with constant movement around them, and a quieter corner gives them a chance to relax between social moments.
If your office has an outdoor area, plan for regular breaks. Short walks every couple of hours help burn off energy and give your dog a chance to use the bathroom. That’s where having a compact, easy-to-carry setup really helps — a GOGO Stik XP Pooper Scooper Set or the Scooper and Hybrid Rake Set makes outdoor cleanup fast and hands-free.
One of the best parts of the day is watching your coworkers meet your dog. That said, not everyone is a dog person, and some people may feel nervous or uncomfortable. Respect that without making a big deal of it.
For the introductions that do happen, let your dog lead. Allow coworkers to hold out their hand and let your dog approach at their own pace rather than pushing the interaction. This keeps your dog calm and makes the experience positive for both sides.
If your dog starts showing signs of stress — excessive panting, whining, hiding, or refusing to eat — take them to a quiet space. Some dogs hit their limit earlier than expected, and it’s better to give them a break than push through it.
This part matters more than most people think. An unfamiliar environment can throw off your dog’s regular bathroom routine. Take breaks more frequently than you normally would, especially in the first few hours.
For outdoor breaks, come prepared. The Catch N’ Go Hybrid Catcher Scooper is built for quick, on-the-go cleanup and includes a built-in bag dispenser — exactly what you need for a busy workday. If you’re heading out after dark or into a parking garage, the Catch N’ Go with Genie Rechargeable LED Flashlight gives you visibility so you never miss a spot.
Cleaning up after your dog at the office isn’t just about etiquette — it shows your employer that you take the privilege seriously. That makes it easier for everyone to say yes next year.
Yes, you’re there for the dog — but you’re still at work. Set up your tasks in advance so you’re not scrambling to meet deadlines while also watching your pup. Block off time for dog breaks on your calendar so they don’t sneak up on you mid-meeting.
Let your teammates know what your day looks like. A quick heads-up that you may need to step out briefly for bathroom breaks sets expectations and keeps things running smoothly.
Dog fur, paw prints, and general mess are part of the deal — but you can stay on top of it. Keep a lint roller at your desk, and use pet wipes to clean paws after each outdoor break.
For yard or green areas near the office, a quick cleanup tool like the EZ Dootie Rake is lightweight and easy to carry. Pair it with Happy Dootie Bags with Tie Handles for a no-fuss cleanup process that keeps outdoor spaces ready for the next person.
Leaving the space cleaner than you found it is a simple way to build goodwill and make sure your dog gets invited back.
By the end of the day, your dog will likely be tired — even if they seemed fine all afternoon. A lot of stimulation, new smells, and new people adds up fast. Plan for a quiet evening when you get home. Skip the dog park or long training sessions and let them rest.
Before you leave the office, do a full sweep of your workspace. Pick up any toys, food scraps, or messes, and make sure the area looks the way you found it. A little cleanup at the end goes a long way toward making Take Your Dog To Work Day a standing tradition at your workplace.
The goal isn’t just to survive the day — it’s to make it something you and your dog both look forward to every year. That means being prepared, being considerate of others, and handling the basics like cleanup and behavior with confidence.
GOGO Stik makes the cleanup side of dog ownership simple, whether you’re at the office or out on a walk. From the Fido USB Rechargeable LED Flashlight Scooper for low-light situations to the Heavy Dootie Bags Variety Pack for stocking up before a big day, the right tools make the difference between a stressful outing and a smooth one.
Bring your dog. Be prepared. Clean up without the hassle. That’s how you celebrate Take Your Dog To Work Day the right way.
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