Best Dogs for Remote Workers

Working from home creates an ideal situation for dog ownership — you are there to provide company, set routines, and catch bathroom break windows. The best dogs for remote workers are calm enough to rest beside you during calls but enthusiastic enough to make the most of your break walks.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Top 10 Breeds

💕

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Small

Content to sleep at your feet all day and perfectly happy with short midday walks.

💨

Greyhound

Large

Sleeps 18 hours a day. Will not bother you during calls and loves quiet evenings.

🐾

French Bulldog

Small

Very happy to nap nearby all day. Low energy, low demands during working hours.

✨

Shih Tzu

Small

Content to rest near you. Needs minimal stimulation during the day.

😴

Basset Hound

Medium

Sleeps more than almost any other breed. The ultimate work-from-home napper.

🌟

Golden Retriever

Large

Calm enough to settle during focus time, but ready for enthusiastic walks on breaks.

🌸

Maltese

Small

Happy to sit in your home office with you all day. Gentle and undemanding.

😄

Pug

Small

Will sleep next to your chair all day. Very happy in a quiet home environment.

🤍

Bichon Frise

Small

Cheerful and adaptable. Can entertain itself quietly while you work.

🎀

#10

Cocker Spaniel

Medium

Gentle, calm, and content with moderate exercise. Great desk dog.

Breeds to Avoid

Border Collie — Will stare at you demanding stimulation all day. Will not let you focus.

Weimaraner — Severe separation anxiety even within the home — needs near-constant interaction.

Jack Russell Terrier — Too energetic and demanding — will bark and bother you constantly without constant engagement.

Vizsla — Dubbed the "velcro dog" — extreme attachment can make focus time nearly impossible.

Tips for Best Dogs for Remote Workers

✓Establish dedicated "settle" training — teach your dog to relax on their bed during working hours.

✓Use a lunchtime walk or play session to drain energy so the afternoon is calmer.

✓Set up a dog bed or crate in your office so your dog has a comfortable spot near you.

✓Use a Kong or puzzle feeder during focused work periods to keep your dog independently occupied.

✓Separate work and play spaces mentally for your dog — teach them when it is work time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is working from home good for dogs?

Generally yes — dogs get more company, faster bathroom breaks, and more consistent routines. However, some dogs can become overly dependent on owner presence and develop separation anxiety. Balance time together with some intentional alone time practice.

Will my dog distract me from work?

Depends on the breed. Very calm, low-demand breeds like Basset Hounds, Greyhounds, and French Bulldogs are barely noticeable during work hours. High-energy breeds that demand stimulation can be very disruptive. Choose wisely.

Can I take my dog on video calls?

Many remote workers find dogs on calls are welcomed — and even improve team morale. Just be prepared for the occasional bark. Training a "quiet" command and keeping the dog settled during important calls is good practice.

How does WFH affect dog separation anxiety?

WFH can increase the risk of separation anxiety because dogs become accustomed to constant owner presence. Practice intentional alone time — leave the house for short periods regularly even when WFH to keep your dog comfortable with your absence.

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