Working from home is a new normal, and it’s both convenient and sometimes isolating. If you’re a WFH employee and are finding you need a little extra companionship, here’s a list of the best coworker dog breeds for keeping you company.
Of course, all this advice comes with a caveat: this list of dog breeds describes their most common demeanor and behaviors. Just like humans, there will be individual dogs who have different health or behavioral needs. Always seek advice from professionals when ultimately choosing a dog – adoption counselors and veteran breeders can help pair you with the ideal pup or even an adult dog.
15 Best Dog Breeds For Owners Who Work From Home
1. Basenji
The Basenji is often referred to as “the barkless dog” which is great for anyone who is frequently on camera and mic’ed up from home. Anyone who’s been on Zoom with a pet owner for even two seconds has heard their dog bark at squirrels, cars, or another member of the family returning home. A Basenji is less likely to interrupt your calls.
Just be aware that Basenji is an active dog and requires a lot of exercise throughout the day. This can be great for a remote employee’s mental and physical health: your pet can serve as a good reminder to step away from your desk and take a break outside.
2. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are great for owners who work from home and city dwellers with limited space. They are generally quiet dogs. They’re small dogs that enjoy cuddles, children, and even other species of pets. It’s not unheard of for a Boston Terrier to be found snuggled up to a patient cat. While not “barkless” like the Basenji, Boston Terriers aren’t loud dogs.
In addition, Boston Terriers aren’t high-strung when it comes to grooming. A weekly brushing and routine nail trimming are all they generally need to stay sleek and happy.
3. Bulldog
Bulldogs are snorters, not barkers. They also aren’t a breed that needs to run several times a day (especially since they have shallow hip sockets). A tug of war or a controlled game of fetch will suit their exercise needs just fine. They also dig lying around in a comfy place they can keep their owners in sight, which makes them a perfect breed for the WFH pet owner, but do proceed with caution: Dogs of this breed that aren’t socialized with children or other pets from an early age can be aggressive, in particular about their food.
You may want to train your own puppy, with puppy classes, or find a professional bulldog breeder or organization who can recommend a dog for you.
By comparison, the Bulldog is smaller than French Bulldog and quieter than American Bulldog.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is, essentially, a lapdog. If you’re looking for a dog breed that both seeks and is willing to give a lot of affection, these sweet, long-haired dogs may be for you. Sometimes described as the “canine world’s couch potato,” the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel doesn’t need a lot of space or high-intensity cardio.
Fun fact! Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are so warm and welcoming, that they’re often used for therapy work. If you’re looking to volunteer in your community, this pup may be a great teammate!
5. Chihuahua
If you’re looking for a tiny pet (even purse-sized!), the petite Chihuahua may be the companion of your dreams. These teeny dogs almost always weigh less than six pounds, and, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a Chihuahua is probably going to be the happiest sitting in your lap.
However, these pooches have been called “little Napoleons” for a reason. Chihuahuas can be very protective of their owners and have no awareness of their small size. While some breeds get along fine with kiddos, others do not always, we recommend getting professional advice on finding the perfect Chi for you.
6. Cocker Spaniel
One of the best things about the Cocker Spaniel breed is their willingness to please their humans. These sweet family dogs are super smart and were bred to obey hunting commands. This means that, when trained well, your Cocker Spaniel will listen when you tell it not to bark while you’re video conferencing and won’t tear apart your place due to an overabundance of energy. Regular walks around the block are all this breed needs to stay fit and healthy and to keep this active dog entertained.
You’ll have to keep an eye on your pup’s ears, though. Those silky, long ears that beg to be petted are also prone to infection since they don’t allow for much airflow.
In case of medical issues, consult your vet and check out the vitamins and medicines available at 1800 Pet Meds.
7. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are one of the larger breeds on this list, but keep their place because of how quiet they are. Most Dalmatians aren’t prone to barking at squirrels or mailmen. And if you’re an active person who likes to run, bike, or play catch, this breed is ready to go with you! Dalmatians were once chosen breed to guard horses, meaning they were bred to keep up with them–, so they do need regular and brisk exercise.
Despite all this, Dalmatians have a great reputation when it comes to kids. The dogs tend to be both very gentle with their small humans but work really great as guard dogs.
8. Doberman Pinscher
One great thing about the Doberman Pinscher is how little maintenance they need. Although they’re shedders, they only require monthly grooming. They’re also very polite with their drool–meaning they won’t slobber all over your stuff. They also score really high on the adaptability scale, which means your dog won’t bemoan a change in routine. If your job is an unpredictable one, in which lunch doesn’t happen at the same time every day or walks get shuffled to different time slots, your dog will be just fine.
Due to their intimidating look, these pups have gotten a bad rap that really doesn’t stand up to examination. Most Dobermans are friendly, loyal, and highly trainable.
9. Golden Retriever
One of the most popular dog breeds, Golden Retrievers made this list for two main factors: like the Doberman Pinscher, they are quite adaptable. And like the Bulldog, they very rarely bark unless there’s something wrong. However, be aware that this breed needs a lot of exercise. They’re pretty hardy and will enjoy running, catching, and swimming–which can help get you away from your desk with regular, healthy breaks.
If you’re working from a home with kids, your dog will find plenty to do on its own. Golden Retrievers have been dubbed the “nanny dog” and typically love being around kids.
It is uncommon knowledge that this breed also served as sled dog.
10. Greyhound
Greyhounds may be the most sensitive dogs on the list. Despite all that size and speed, the breed is loyal and emotionally intelligent. If you’re having a bad day, odds are that this breed of pup will sense it and comfort you. They don’t shed much and are low maintenance when it comes to grooming.
They also make good roomies since they don’t drool and are independent. Your Greyhound won’t need you to entertain him or her all day. However, they will need regular and vigorous exercise. These dogs live for chasing rabbits and have had high endurance wells since the time of pharaohs in ancient Egypt.
11. Havanese
The Havenese is a toy breed that makes up for being small by having a big personality. Instead of you providing entertainment, Havanese are more likely to provide it for you. Despite being clowns, Havanese are a quiet breed, so much so that they’re considered a great option for apartment-dwellers.
Unlike Dobermans or Chihuahuas, the Havanese typically won’t get aggressive if not properly socialized and are always left alone. Instead, these pups can become overly shy and timid–so they might need help in this area
12. Miniature Schnauzer
This is one versatile dog breed! Miniature Schnauzers can work on a farm catching rodents or can live comfortably in an apartment with their humans (where they hopefully will catch fewer rodents). They also are fast learners who quickly pick up new commands. They get along well with both kids and other animals, making them the ideal companions for families.
However, one drawback of the breed (especially for someone working from home) is their habit of yappiness. You may have to spend either some extra time or extra money to teach your very trainable companion not to bark too much. Reward them dog treats each training.
13. Whippet
We love that most Whippets are low maintenance. Although these dogs love to chase, they also don’t mind just hanging out for hours on end. And, while doing said hanging out, they’re not likely to bark.
Whippets take home the prize for being easy-going and gentle. Because of this, they need owners who are affectionate and willing to take the time to bond with them every day. Known as a big family dog, this breed loves kids, especially if those kids are willing to cuddle.
14. Saluki
Gentle Salukis are another breed of dog that is unlikely to interrupt your work day with barking or snoring. You won’t slip in a puddle of Saluki drool, either. If you like your lap empty during the work day, the Saluki may be the right pet for you–they prefer to sit at your side, so while they enjoy being close to their humans, they also need their personal space.
Salukis don’t mind lounging in a comfortable, warm place for long periods, but they do need to stretch their legs to their maximum speed at least once a day, which is great for taking a walk during your work day.
15. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a lovable lapdog and proud of it. Although this breed of pup has high energy levels and is exuberant, their small stature makes it easy to burn off their pluck in small spaces. The Bichon Frise loves other dogs and playing with kids, making it a family favorite pet.
Just make sure you have time, every day, to brush the Bichon Frise’s thick double coat. If not, it can get matted and cause painful tangles.
The Canine Bottom Line
There’s simply no perfect dog breed for those who work from home because not all breeds are the same, but there are many dog breeds you can choose from if you’re willing to put in the time and effort to meet your canine companion’s needs. Some, like the Whippet, require a warm lap and frequent pats. Others, like the Golden Retriever and Greyhound, need the kind of owner who works and plays hard indoors and outside.
Remember that each dog, just like each dog owner, is an individual. While they may fall in line with most of their breed’s generalizations, it’s almost a guarantee that you’ll find something unique and special n the process of getting to know them and training.