Canine companions. Four-legged friends. Man’s best friend. Life would be a lot duller without dogs by our side, and so would offices! From reducing stress levels to increasing productivity, the presence of dogs in the office can bring a range of benefits to both employees and employers.

Yet, according to Time, only 8% of workplaces allow them. We’re here to explore the numerous advantages of having dogs in the office, explain why more and more companies are embracing this trend, and tell you more about our dog-friendly policies at The Boutique Workplace Company.

If you’re a dog-lover looking for a new office, or you’re just curious about the benefits of having dogs in the workplace, this post is for you!

The benefits of having dogs in the office

Aside from the obvious benefit, that dogs are wonderful and should be present at all times in as many spaces as possible, there are a range of tangible benefits to having dogs in the office. They include:

Helps to relieve stress and boost morale

One of the biggest benefits of having dogs in the office is the morale boost they can bring to employees. Dogs in the office provide a fun and light-hearted contrast to the daily grind, helping to create a positive and uplifting atmosphere even during the most stressful periods at work. In fact, research has shown that employees who bring dogs into the office generally have lower stress levels and improved mood compared to those who don’t, which can lead to increased job satisfaction. 

Dogs can also serve as a conversation starter and help to break down barriers between employees, leading to better communication and team building. One study found that employees who bring their dogs to work tend to feel more connected to their colleagues. So, whether you’re dealing with a challenging project or just need a mid-day pick-me-up, having dogs in the office can provide the perfect morale boost for employees.

Promotes better working habits

Another benefit of having dogs in the office is that they can promote better working habits, simply by being there. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK recommends workers take short breaks from their computer, ideally 5-10 minutes every hour. And what better reason is there to take a break from your desk than to play with the office pooch for a little bit? 

Outside of encouraging regular breaks from work, dogs also help to create a sense of responsibility in the workplace. They need to be looked after, fed, and taken for walks – all tasks which can be split between the entire team. Although only small responsibilities, these routines can add structure to the work day and inspire workers to be more productive.

Better walking meetings

Speaking of being taken for walks, it’s not only dogs that can benefit from the time outdoors. Research suggests that walking meetings, leaving the meeting room behind for the outside world, can increase creativity by up to 80%. Naturally, having dogs in the office means that outdoor walks are a necessity, making it easier than ever to incorporate walking meetings into your company culture.

Aside from the creativity-boost that walking meetings generate, they’re also another way of promoting better working habits. According to various studies, including one from Harvard, exercise during the work day also contributes towards other productivity-boosting benefits, like increased concentration and sharper memory. 

Removes a disincentive of office working

Finally, having dogs in the office can help to encourage remote workers to come into the office. Many remote workers enjoy the flexibility and independence that comes with working from home, but can often miss the social interactions and camaraderie of a traditional office setting. By allowing dogs in the office, companies can create a more inviting and welcoming atmosphere, making it easier for remote workers to feel comfortable and connected when they do come into the office.

And, of course, remote workers who own dogs have a big disincentive to coming into the office – looking after their dog. By allowing them to bring their dog to work, you can give them the best of both worlds. They get the chance to share a space with their colleagues without having to leave their dog by themselves all day!

Tips for dog owners

Bringing a dog to the workplace can be a wonderful experience for both the owner and everyone else who shares the space, but it’s important to ensure that it’s done in a responsible and considerate manner. Here are some tips for people who plan to bring dogs into the office:

• Get permission: Before bringing a dog to work, it’s important to check with your employer to make sure it’s allowed. While all of the workplaces in the Boutique Collection are dog-friendly, some companies who use our spaces may have restrictions on the type or size of dogs that are permitted, or may require proof of vaccinations or obedience training.
• Consider the dog’s personality: Not all dogs are suited to a busy office environment, so it’s important to choose a dog that is well-behaved and sociable. If you think it’s likely that your dog will get stressed or anxious in an office setting, think twice about whether it’s a good idea.
• Provide necessary supplies: We of course provide water for all of the four-legged friends that come in to Boutique workplaces, but dogs need more than that to enjoy their day. Make sure to bring everything your dog will need to the office with you, including food, toys, and a bed or crate. 
• Consider your coworkers: While it’s important to make sure that your dog is comfortable and happy at work, it’s equally important to consider the comfort and preferences of your coworkers. Make sure to ask for permission before allowing your dog to interact with others, and respect their boundaries if they prefer not to interact with dogs.
• Clean up after your dog: Finally, an obvious point but one that’s worth the reminder: always clean up after your dog, both inside and outside of the office, to maintain a clean and hygienic environment.

By following these tips, you can ensure that bringing a dog to the workplace is a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Find your dog-friendly workplace

So, now you know why we think dog-friendly workplaces are the future, and understand why we have dog-friendly policies in each of our serviced office locations. If you’re looking for a new office or coworking space where you can bring your pup along every day, browse through our workplaces and find the one that suits you best. We can’t wait to welcome you both!