Dog Friendly Work Environments: Creating a Happy and Productive Space

Having a dog-friendly work environment can boost morale and productivity, according to a study that found 95% of employees who brought their dogs to work reported increased job satisfaction.

Dogs can also help reduce stress and anxiety in the workplace, with 80% of employees who bring their dogs to work reporting reduced stress levels.

A well-designed dog-friendly space can include amenities such as dog beds, water stations, and even outdoor play areas, as seen in a company that built a dog park on their rooftop.

Having a dog-friendly policy can also attract top talent, with 75% of employees saying they would be more likely to apply for a job at a company that allows dogs in the workplace.

Having dogs in the workplace can be a game-changer for employees. Studies show that furry friends can lower stress levels, especially for pet parents.

Dogs make great icebreakers, increasing levels of communication among employees, particularly new employees. This can be especially helpful for shy or quiet employees who may struggle to connect with coworkers.

A pet-friendly work policy can attract and retain new employees. In fact, 63% of employees would be more interested in interviewing for a job with a pet-friendly policy.

Having dogs in the office can increase productivity, with employees staying later to complete projects because they're not worried about running home to let their dogs out. This can lead to a significant increase in employee retention.

Employees who work alongside dogs in their office are more likely to give a new dog a home. Dogs that come to the office with their owners receive more mental stimulation and meet many new friends.

Here are some key benefits of having dogs in the workplace:

By implementing a dog-friendly policy, employers can reap the rewards of a happier, more productive workforce.

Implementing a dog-friendly policy requires some thought and planning. It's essential to consider the needs of both employees and their pets to ensure a harmonious and productive work environment.

Only allow one or two dogs at a time to avoid distractions and potential conflicts between dogs. This will also make it easier to manage the dogs and keep the workplace clean.

Require disposable wraps for male dogs to prevent them from marking their territory while indoors. This simple step can go a long way in maintaining a clean and comfortable workspace.

Let others know that there are dogs on the premises as a courtesy to those who may have allergies or other concerns. This can be done through a company-wide announcement or by posting signs in the office.

Create designated times for dogs to eat, relieve themselves, or stretch out their legs. Just like employees, dogs need breaks too!

Require proof of vaccinations and spaying or neutering for all dogs. This is crucial for the safety of employees and other dogs on the premises.

Designate an area for dogs to sit while their owners work, and if possible, create an outdoor space for them to play or relieve themselves.

Preparing your workplace for a furry friend requires some planning and consideration. Exercise your dog beforehand, especially if they're younger and hyperactive, to tire them out before they sit for periods at work.

Off-leash running is a great way to get them moving. Exercise them during work too, use your breaks to take them outside and let them run around a bit. You can also exercise them indoors if needed.

Packing smart is key, bring treats and toys to keep them occupied while you work. Just make sure to avoid toys that might distract other employees, like squeak toys.

Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations before bringing them to work, it's essential for their health and the health of your coworkers and their dogs.

A well-potty-trained dog is a must-have in the workplace. Don't risk potty training a puppy at work, make sure they're fully trained before bringing them in.

Consider your pet's personality, not every dog is suitable for the workplace. Dogs that are rambunctious or timid may have trouble sitting still around new people.

Here's a quick rundown of the essential preparations:

Having dogs at work is a game-changer. By bringing your furry friends to the office, you can significantly lower stress levels, especially for pet parents.

Studies have shown that employees who bring their dogs to work score higher on job satisfaction subscales compared to those who don't. This is a clear indication that dogs have a positive impact on our mental wellbeing.

Dogs make great icebreakers, increasing communication among employees, especially new ones. They provide a common topic of discussion, helping shy or quiet employees to open up.

A pet-friendly work policy can be a major perk for attracting and retaining new employees. This is a win-win for both dog parents and those who simply enjoy dogs' presence.

Here are some of the benefits of having dogs at work:

As you start your journey to creating a dog-friendly workplace, you'll want to know about the resources and partnerships that can help you along the way.

The American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen program is a great resource to have on hand, as it provides a framework for training your employees' dogs to behave well in the office.

Companies like Patagonia and REI have already made the transition to dog-friendly workplaces, and their commitment to employee well-being has paid off in terms of increased productivity and job satisfaction.

According to a survey, 75% of employees reported feeling more relaxed and happy when they could bring their dogs to work.

The Humane Society offers a wealth of information on creating a dog-friendly workplace, including tips on dog-proofing your office and creating a dog-friendly policy.

Many companies are now offering dog-friendly benefits as a way to attract and retain top talent.

A study found that 63% of employees would consider switching jobs for a company that allows dogs in the office.

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has also weighed in on the benefits of dog-friendly workplaces, citing increased employee satisfaction and reduced turnover rates.

Kimpton Hotels has been pet-friendly since 1981, even allowing employees to bring their dogs to work. Their founder, Bill Kimpton, would often bring his dog, Chianti, to the office.

Kimpton Hotels has taken pet-friendliness to the next level by employing a "director of pet relations" at some of their locations. These honorary staff members get paid in treats and belly rubs.

Salesforce takes a more casual approach to dog-friendly workplaces, offering a "Puppyforce" room at their San Francisco headquarters where employees can work with their dogs by their side.

On a similar theme: Bring Your Dog to Work Day

The Roller is a pet-friendly coworking space in Sydney that's a perfect fit for artists and creatives. It's located in a mid-century warehouse building that's an attraction in itself.

The space has a photo studio, which is a great amenity for photographers. The picturesque settings and nice music playing in the background will inspire your creativity.

The Roller has an active community and well-equipped facilities, including air conditioning, meeting rooms, a printer, showers, and a business mailing address.

The Farm is a unique coworking space located in the SoHo neighborhood of New York City. It was reconstructed from a century-old barn that was carefully transported piece-by-piece to its current location.

The space has a strong focus on nature and organic design, with everything built by hand. This attention to detail creates a welcoming atmosphere for members and their pets.

The Farm's dog-friendly policy is a key aspect of its community, allowing members to bring their pets into the workspace. This helps build a loyal and vibrant community.

Here are some benefits of having a dog-friendly coworking space like The Farm:

By incorporating pet-friendly features into your coworking space, you can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for your members.

You can start by sending the DogsAtWork Guide to your Human Resources Department to help them develop a dog-friendly policy.

The guide offers suggestions for office rules and ways to ensure all employees are on board with the new benefit.

Companies like PetPartners, Inc. have had dogs in their office for five years and can serve as great examples of successful dog-friendly workplaces.

You can use the guide's checklists for implementing a program to make the process smoother.

By requesting the guide, you can get the ball rolling on creating a pet-friendly policy at your company.