Work-From-Home? These 7 Dog Breeds Were Practically Made for It

Working from home comes with plenty of perks—no commute, pajama dress codes, and the freedom to take snack breaks on your own schedule. But one of the biggest bonuses? You get to spend more time with your dog.

Of course, not all breeds are cut out for the home office lifestyle. Some need more attention, exercise, or stimulation than your busy calendar can allow.

The good news is, there are plenty of breeds that thrive in cozy indoor environments and love being close to their humans.

Whether you’re looking for a mellow lap dog or a quiet companion who won’t bark during conference calls, there’s a pup perfectly suited for your workflow.

Here are the 7 best dog breeds for people who work from home—each bringing loyalty, charm, and just the right amount of distraction.

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Sweet, docile, and incredibly people-focused, Cavaliers are made for cozy home life.

They’re quiet, affectionate companions who will happily curl up beside you while you work. Their calm demeanor makes them great for people who need a peaceful atmosphere, especially during long meetings or focused writing sessions.

They require minimal exercise, so a short walk in the morning or during your lunch break is usually enough. And they’re not big barkers, so you won’t have to worry about noise disruptions.

Cavaliers thrive on companionship, which makes them ideal for remote workers.

They don’t like being left alone for too long, so your constant presence is exactly what they need. Add in their silky fur and expressive eyes, and you’ve got a cuddly coworker you’ll never want to leave.

2. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a dream come true for apartment dwellers or anyone with a compact workspace.

These little clowns are affectionate, playful, and surprisingly low-energy. They love nothing more than being near their people, lounging in a comfy spot while you type away.

Frenchies are typically quiet and don’t bark much, which means your Zoom calls can proceed without unexpected interruptions.

They don’t need tons of exercise either—just a quick walk and some indoor playtime. Plus, their expressive faces will keep you entertained through the workday.

One thing to keep in mind: they’re prone to overheating, so a cool, climate-controlled home is ideal.

If you want a buddy who will stay by your side without demanding too much, the French Bulldog is as loyal and lovable as they come.

3. Labrador Retriever

Labs are famous for being friendly, loyal, and easy to train—all perfect traits for a work-from-home companion.

They’re emotionally in tune with their humans and will often match your energy, relaxing when you’re busy and ready to play when you take a break.

Labs need regular exercise, so they’re great if you like to start your mornings with a brisk walk or take a movement break midday.

Even with their high energy, they know how to settle down indoors, especially if given a comfy bed and a chew toy. Their gentle nature also makes them excellent with kids, other pets, and visitors.

If you’re looking for a smart, affectionate dog who fits into almost any routine, the Labrador Retriever makes remote work life even more rewarding.

4. Shih Tzu

If your ideal office partner is low-key, fluffy, and perfectly content to nap through your deadlines, meet the Shih Tzu.

These pint-sized pups are affectionate without being clingy, and they’re known for their mellow personality.

They were bred to be royal lap dogs, and they still take that job very seriously—spending their days lounging close by and enjoying human company.

Shih Tzus don’t need a lot of exercise, and they’re not prone to excessive barking. This makes them excellent choices for quiet home environments or apartment living.

While their luxurious coat does require regular grooming, their minimal shedding is a big bonus for keeping your workspace tidy. If you want a dog that thrives indoors and is happy to chill during conference calls, the Shih Tzu is a solid pick.

5. Miniature Schnauzer

Smart, spirited, and surprisingly adaptable, Miniature Schnauzers bring personality and charm to your home office.

They’re great for people who like a little structure in their day—this breed loves routine and will remind you when it’s walk or snack time.

Though energetic, they aren’t overly demanding, and they can chill after some daily play or a quick walk. They’re known for being alert but not overly yappy, so you can rely on them to stay relatively quiet during calls.

Schnauzers are intelligent and curious, which means they also love interactive toys or tasks to keep them busy while you work.

They form strong bonds with their humans and thrive with close companionship. If you want a loyal, lively sidekick who keeps your days structured and your heart full, look no further.

6. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are the ultimate feel-good dogs—gentle, obedient, and emotionally intuitive. They’re incredibly loyal and love being wherever you are, whether that’s your desk, couch, or backyard lunch spot.

Goldens are patient and usually mellow indoors, especially after a bit of morning exercise. They’re fantastic for families too, so if you’re juggling remote work and kids at home, they’re up for the challenge.

While they do shed and need brushing, their temperament makes them easy to manage overall. They’re not usually barky unless something’s truly worth barking about, so they won’t interrupt your work flow.

Need a therapy dog who also hands you the occasional tennis ball? The Golden Retriever brings all the good vibes—exactly what a home office needs.

7. Chihuahua

Tiny but mighty, Chihuahuas are surprisingly loyal and perfect for solo remote workers. They form intense bonds with their humans and will happily follow you from room to room, always curious and always near.

While they have a reputation for sass, most Chihuahuas are affectionate lap dogs when raised in a calm, loving environment.

They’re also low-maintenance—short walks and indoor play are usually enough to keep them happy. Because of their small size, they’re great for tiny apartments or cluttered desks.

Just keep them warm, offer lots of snuggles, and they’ll be your biggest (and smallest) fan. If you want a compact companion that’s full of personality and thrives on your attention, a Chihuahua might just be your perfect match.