This article originally appeared on chewy.com.

How to Bring Dogs in the Workplace

If there’s one thing to make the workday go by faster, it’s having your best four-legged friend by your side. Or, in this case, on your lap.

Luckily for many employees across the nation, workplaces are becoming more pet-friendly—and with good reason. According to a study in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management, dogs at work can increase job satisfaction and reduce stress.

Before you take your dog to work, there are a few other considerations that should be taken into account. Take a look at our tips below to get your dog workplace-ready.

Are You Ready to Take Your Dog to Work?

“First, ask yourself if your dog is comfortable in new places and with new people, sights and sounds,” says Irith Bloom, certified professional trainer and director of training at TheSophisticatedDog.com. If your dog is territorial or aggressive, he probably won’t do well in an office setting. “Coworkers and customers walk in and out of workplaces on a regular basis, and if your dog gets stressed and behaves aggressively every time someone enters, neither your dog nor your coworkers and customers will be happy,” says Bloom. “Similarly, if he runs away or tries to hide when he sees new people or things, that indicates he is experiencing stress, and he’ll probably feel a lot better at home.”

How to Get Your Pup Workplace Ready

• Housetrain your dog. If your pup is not potty trained, It may be best to leave him at home. If you insist on showing off a new puppy, make sure the proper preventative measures are taken. Consider bringing along some potty pads with a built-in dog attractant. A dog pen can also help to keep your dog (and any messes!) contained.
• Get your pet microchipped. “It’s fairly easy for pets to get lost when they are traveling from one place to another,” says Bloom. Therefore, she recommends investing in a microchip. Microchipping a pet is one of the best ways to get your pet back if you lose him. Before bringing your dog to work, register and update your microchip. In addition to the microchip, Bloom advises that your pooch wear a collar with a tag with your contact information on it. “In a workplace, doors open and shut a lot, and if your dog decides to dash out the door, he could be hard to find. The tags and microchip will make it easier to track down your pet in those situations,” she says.
• Keep him confined. Even if your pup is older, a dog pen may be a good idea. It will keep your dog away from potential dangers, like other dogs that your pup doesn’t get along with. “Dogs can get tangled in cords, trapped behind closed doors or injured by office equipment,” says Bloom. Plus, keeping your pup contained prevents him from begging at your coworkers heels during lunch breaks, and otherwise distracting them from their work (even if it’s welcomed at your dog-friendly office!).

Packing for Your Dog’s Day at Work

Your dog will likely get hungry and thirsty if your shift is more than a few hours long. If this is the case, make sure you come prepared. Pack a bowl for water, a bowl for food and your pup’s food. Bloom recommends an interactive food dispenser, like the Kong Wobbler, that dishes out dog food or treats as your dog plays with the toy. This helps keep your dog entertained and stimulated during quiet days at the office, and reduces the chances of overeating.

Besides food and water, make sure to bring a towel or dog bed when you take your dog to work. It is also helpful to keep plenty of treats handy, like Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe Dog Treats, so you can reward your pup for being a quiet and well-behaved employee.

For your morning and evening commute, don’t forget a pet kennel. The Petmate 2-Door Kennel is a sturdy carrier with a modern design ideal for any of your pet travel needs. You can also use a seat belt tether to keep your best friend safe during the ride.

Tips to Keep in Mind When You Take Your Dog to Work

If you are just starting to take your dog to work, Bloom recommends taking him out on walks often. “With frequent walks, it will be easier for your dog to understand that he will get regular opportunities to potty, as well as where he should actually be pottying,” she says. Make sure to keep plenty of poop bags stored at your desk to clean up after your dog.

While dogs at the workplace may be a fun, it is important that your pet is happy and comfortable as well. Bloom says to monitor your pet for signs of any discomfort, stress or anxiety. “If your dog spends the entire day at your workplace showing stress signals, he’s probably not very happy there and should go home,” she says.

Some behavioral symptoms of stress and anxiety include growling, snarling, barking, lunging and biting. Some more subtle signs are repeated lip licking or yawning, excessive panting and a tucked tail. Remember, you and only you are responsible for your pet’s happiness. It is essential that your furry friend is a priority for you during your workday.

Samantha Schwab, Junior Editor
As an aspiring cat mom, Samantha Schwab can be found mining keywords, meticulously editing Pet Central blog posts or standing at her desk (usually all three!). An espresso shot and kitty cuddles are the only things that stand between Samantha and conquering the (pet) world!

Ark Naturals is the preeminent brand of health and wellness products for pets. Ark Naturals has created and produced highly effective formulas for over 20 years. Our products are designed to offer natural remedies for an array of pet care needs including oral care (dental), joint relief, skin & coat remedies, cognitive function, calming, digestion, and overall wellness. All-natural products and revolutionary formulas provide a better, more fulfilling life for your pet.

The post Tips on How to Take Your Dog to Work appeared first on ArkNaturals.

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This article originally appeared on chewy.com.

Despite what some people might believe, most dogs weren’t born knowing how to play fetch. “It’s not complicated, but there are some guidelines in the beginning to help with how to teach a dog to fetch,” says Eric Pliner, owner and trainer at Dog Training with Eric in Denver, CO.

The tricky part when it comes to how to teach a dog to fetch is actually the return part. “Dogs will naturally chase a ball or stick, but the return part is the hard part for some dogs,” says Pliner. “Many want to play the game of chase instead of returning the ball to continue the game of fetch.”

Steps to Train Your Dog to Fetch

“I break this down because each step is a teaching moment, and requires your dog to think,” explains Pliner. “When a dog thinks, it releases more energy, and the dog gets tired out more quickly.”

1. Throw and Chase

   Most dogs will do this naturally, says Pliner. Some dogs may not understand what a ball is yet, however, so you have to introduce it to them. “Get your energy up; be excited about the ball,” suggests Pliner. “Bounce it so it doesn’t go too far above eye level for your dog so he doesn’t lose site of it. Also roll it around in front of him at different speeds, but don’t let it go too far away.” The key here, says Pliner, is to keep the ball within his reach so he doesn’t lose interest.

   Using a fun product like the KONG AirDog Squeakair ball, the Chuckit! Classic Launcher, the KONG Squeakair Birthday Balls Dog Toy or thePlanet Dog Orbee-Tuff Fetch Ball with Rope could help keep your pup interested, as well. Try out a couple different products and see which one gets her the most excited and engaged.

2. Return the Ball

   When it comes to how to teach a dog to fetch, Pliner says this part requires patience and practice. “In the beginning, I suggest throwing the ball in a short hallway, or any area that’s somewhat narrow, so that the dog has little chance to avoid you and start the chasing game,” explains Pliner. “This way, when you call your dog to return using an excited, positive voice, he will eventually come to you.” Use the same word to call your dog back to you every time, says Pliner. Always praise him and pat him when he obeys. If you’re using treats as an incentive, Honest Kitchen’s Smooches are the perfect bite-size treat for training.

3. Drop It 

   Once your dog returns the ball to you, put your hand below his mouth with your palm facing up, and say the command, “Drop it.” “If he doesn’t understand, that’s okay,” says Pliner. “Simply hold the ball while in his mouth and repeat the command until he releases the ball. Don’t try to tug on it or pull it away from him.” If your dog runs away with the ball, try again. “This takes some patience and practice, but he will eventually get it,” explains Pliner. “Doing this exercise in a hallway first is key because he simply has nowhere else to go, and will figure out what you’re asking for quicker.”

4. Wait for the Throw

   This isn’t necessarily required for the game, but Pliner likes to include it because it makes dogs concentrate and work for their reward of fetch. To teach it, once your dog drops the ball, have him sit and wait until either the ball is thrown or you release him from the sit after the ball is thrown.

Training your dog to play fetch is easy if you have a little patience and can follow these four steps. Don’t worry if your dog isn’t interested in the ball. Try a fun toy like the West Paw Design Zogoflex Zisc Dog Toy to achieve the same result. Fetch is a bonding experience for you and your dog. The most important thing is to stay patient and have fun!

Cheryl Lock
Cheryl Lock is a writer and editor who lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband, daughter and cat, Penny. Her work has appeared in dozens of newspapers, magazines and websites. Cheryl has written about everything from pets and politics to parenting, travel and food. Find more of her work at CherylLock.com, or follow her passion for travel on her blog at WearyWanderer.com.

Ark Naturals makes natural products that allow pets to enjoy a better quality of life, which helps owners feel rest assured that they have cared for their pets in the best way possibly by choosing natural alternatives for dental, joint, skin & coat, cognitive, calming, skin, digestion, and overall wellness care. 

The post How to Train Your Dog to Fetch appeared first on ArkNaturals.

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