Balancing work and personal life has become a growing challenge as more people spend their days working from home. Without clear boundaries between office hours and downtime, it can be easy to stay glued to a screen longer than intended. A new Instagram video shows how one dog owner’s reminder to log off doesn’t come from a calendar alert, but from her clingy Golden Retriever.
Golden Retriever sits next to owner when it’s time to get off work
A video shared by @gowithnala on Instagram shows a Golden Retriever named Nala taking her role as household supervisor very seriously. The onscreen text reads, “When it’s time to stop working for the day.” The caption sets up what quickly becomes a sweet standoff between productivity and puppy affection.
As the video begins, Nala gently wedges her face between her owner’s arm and lap while she sits at her desk. Her position makes it nearly impossible for her owner to comfortably use the computer mouse. Looking up with unmistakable puppy-dog eyes, Nala stays perfectly still. She is clearly waiting for attention rather than allowing work to continue uninterrupted.
Her owner laughs and asks if she’s not allowed to use her mouse, but Nala refuses to move. Even as her parent explains she needs to keep working and doesn’t want to accidentally squish her face, the dog remains committed to her mission.
Eventually, the owner gives in slightly, petting Nala’s head while trying to negotiate more work time. The video ends with the Golden Retriever still planted in place, silently insisting that her owner’s workday is officially over. The caption humorously sums it up: “Nala makes the work life balance decisions around here.”
If you work from home with a dog, you probably know this situation all too well. Dogs thrive on routine. So setting regular work hours and sticking to them helps them understand when you’re busy and when you’re available. Try scheduling short walks or play breaks throughout the day so they don’t feel ignored.
You might also want to keep a comfy bed or toy nearby. This way, they can stay close without climbing into your workspace. And when your dog starts giving you that look at the end of the day, it might actually be a good reminder to close the laptop and reset.
