How do I get anything done when my dog wants attention?

Dear On Mute, Again,

You have brought a complaint about a dog to a dog. I admire your optimism.

From your dog’s perspective, you are home, you have hands, and you are speaking warmly to a rectangle. The rectangle has never once greeted you properly. This is a difficult arrangement to explain.

Try making breaks predictable. A little time together before you settle in, a comfortable place nearby, and a regular pause you can both look forward to. Work will still exist when you come back. It has demonstrated remarkable persistence.

You don’t have to answer every request immediately. You do have to remember there is a small, very interested colleague living with you. One who cannot read your calendar and considers ‘quarterly alignment’ a disappointing name for a walk.

If you are worried about your dog’s distress, ask someone qualified to help. I am a columnist whose principal credential is being in the room.