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Vet Tips for surviving working from home with a puppy

Updated 06 December 2024
Read time: 4 mins

While there are many positives to taking on a puppy during lockdown, there is no denying that there are a few drawbacks too. One of the main issues pet parents are finding is that balancing work and a demanding puppy is no mean feat. Here, we discuss some top tips to keeping you sane and your puppy content while working from home.


How to entertain a puppy whilst remote working

 

Stick to a routine

As is true with children, puppies thrive on routine. If your pup’s used to getting fed and walked at a certain time, they know what to expect each day. Conversely, making them wait for dinner or skipping a walk can result in one confused little critter.

 

Start crate training from day one

Crate training offers many advantages, but you must take things slow to ensure your puppy’s content when crated. Any sign of anxiety means you probably need to take a step back.

The crate should be seen as a ‘safe haven’ and somewhere secure for your pup to rest when you’ve an important call to attend. Plugging in a pheromone diffuser such as an ‘Adaptil’ near the crate can be useful, or let them gnaw on a long-lasting chew with calming properties to keep them quiet and occupied.

 

Spend some time bonding during your lunch hour and breaks

Pups operate on two speeds: Wide awake or fast asleep! Take advantage of this by playing fast-paced games during lunch breaks, and tiring out your furry friend so they nap while you work.

 

 

Encourage good behaviour with lots of praise and some tempting treats

Pooch & Mutt’s Meaty Treat range is ideal for hungry pups and there’s an array of delicious flavours to choose from, so every palate’s satisfied. Games like ‘find the treat’ can be played around the home, encouraging your dog to problem solve and scent - or try a mind-puzzle toy to keep brains busy. This isn’t just fun, but also provides some much-needed mental stimulation.

For those tiny pups over 8 weeks old, Pooch & Mutt’s Puppy Jerky is perfectly sized for little mouths. They contain tasty, nutritional ingredients like beef, cranberries and apple for a focus-inducing high-reward treat.

 

     

    Practice those training commands

    Getting a handle on the basic training commands (such as ‘sit’, ‘stay’ and ‘lie’) will come in handy if you’re on a call and your pup’s bounding over to you. Training’s something that can begin from as early as 8 weeks old, and should continue throughout a dog’s life.

     

     

    Teach your dog a ‘settle’ cue

    When it’s time to chill, use a mat and a word such as ‘relax’ to encourage them to settle. This can be a time when they nap, play with a chew toy, or have access to a food puzzle. This ‘settle mat’ is great to use outside the home too, and can go with you to cafés, pubs and other public places. It’ll always be a spot where your dog knows to be zen near you.

     

     

    Start as you mean to go on with a good quality diet.

    We always recommend pups (and adult dogs of course) should be served fresh, nourishing food such as our complete Puppy Superfood.

     

    Made with natural ingredients of chicken, sweet potato and spinach, this is the perfect fuel for your little growing gremlin. Packed with prebiotics, this superfood aids digestion and is especially good for puppies who suffer from loose stools from time-to-time.

    As an added bonus, the salmon oil will ensure a luscious coat that feels silky smooth.

     

       

      Take your pup along with you for an adventure


      Getting used to the world around them outside their four walls, is essential for the mental development of your furry friend. So once fully vaccinated get them outdoors with you!

       

      While it may be tempting to keep them safe inside, this can lead to behavioural issues down the line once they do start to go outside. It’ll also lead you one step closer to getting them tired out and settled indoors, while you’re working away.


      Try to savour the moment.

      Though it won’t be easy caring for a boisterous bundle of energy while trying to meet deadlines at work, remember that your new pet will only be a puppy once. Try to enjoy their ‘mad moments’ and set aside some spare time for puppy cuddles.

        While raising a happy and well-rounded puppy takes real effort and commitment (especially while working from home at the same time!) it can be a truly rewarding task. If you feel like you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet who will be happy to provide further advice.

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