Remote work has boomed since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and it’s still going strong. Even though more companies have been calling employees back to the office, a large share of Americans continue to work from home. In 2025, that’s roughly 32.6 million people, about 22% of the national workforce.
While many say remote work is flexible, budget-friendly, and overall healthier, it turns out it’s not just changing people’s routines. It’s changing their pets’ routines, too.
TikTok creator Megan (@megan.kemper) recently shared a heartwarming video showing how her dog, Milo, reacts whenever she gets ready for the day.
The clip, filmed at her home in Houston, shows that working remotely has unintentionally changed their daily dynamic.
Dog Hates It When His Owner Puts on Makeup
In the video, Megan explains that she works from home and rarely does her hair or makeup anymore. “And when I do, my dog knows that I’m going somewhere, and it’s the saddest thing ever,” she says.
She then turns her camera toward Milo, who’s sitting quietly inside his crate, staring at her with wide eyes. “Milo, what are you doing? What are you doing in there?” she asks. Milo barely moves, quietly protesting her getting ready to leave.
“I’m not going anywhere, Milo,” she says softly. “You can come out.”
Commenters Side With the Dog, Of Course
In the comments, viewers couldn’t get over Milo’s expression. “You better have stayed home,” one person wrote.
Another added, “Better be going to get pup cups and toys.”
Some pointed out that dogs are surprisingly good at picking up on routines. “It’s so funny when they make up their own cues,” one commenter said. “Chloe knows it’s time to go workout when I shake my water bottle.”
“He’s not mad, just disappointed lol,” one viewer joked.
How Remote Work May Affect Pets
For many pets, having their owners home all day feels like a dream. Animal behavior experts have long noted that sudden changes in a dog’s routine, especially around presence and absence, can lead to distress.
Research suggests that as many as eight in 10 dogs struggle when left alone, though not all show obvious signs. Some may bark or howl, while others pace, tremble, or refuse to eat when their owners leave.
Since many pet parents work remotely now, those signs can go unnoticed for long periods, until it’s time to go back to the office or even just step out for errands.
Experts recommend occasionally filming your dog when you leave the house, even if only for a few minutes. Hidden stress signals like whining, pacing, or excessive yawning may reveal separation-related anxiety.
If a dog does show distress, a vet or certified animal behaviorist can help identify the underlying cause and develop a plan. Gradual training works best, teaching the dog that being alone isn’t scary but safe and sometimes even rewarding.
BroBible has reached out to Megan via TikTok messages for comments.