The Benefits of Dogs in the Office: How Four-Legged Friends Boost Wellbeing and Productivity

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

One of the most well-documented benefits of dogs in the office is their ability to reduce stress. Dogs are known to make excellent emotional support companions, and they are used around the world in therapy for their ability to respond to people’s emotional needs. Take Coco, for example, an emotional support dog who accompanies her owner, Maria, to work every day. Without Coco, Maria struggles with long commutes and anxiety, but with Coco by her side, she feels more confident and capable of achieving her goals. Coco’s presence not only helps Maria, but she also brightens the mood of the entire team.

In addition to emotional support, dogs provide a reason for employees to step outside during breaks, get some fresh air, and enjoy a short walk—an activity proven to benefit mental health. All of our office dogs help their owners take a break from their desks, which has a noticeable positive impact on overall mental health. In fact, a study conducted by Virginia Commonwealth University found that employees who brought their dogs to work experienced significantly lower stress levels throughout the day compared to those who didn’t.

The effects of having dogs in the office on mental, emotional, and even physical health are clear—and ultimately, healthier employees lead to a healthier, more productive company.

Building Connections and Breaking the Ice

Having a dog in the office can also serve as an icebreaker for new employees or clients. According to Indeed, “dogs may help newer employees feel more confident, as it gives them something to bond with their colleagues over,” and we’ve seen this in our own office. Eddie the Beagle is a great example of how a dog can open up communication in a shared workspace. Eddie’s owner, Sam, mentioned that in his first two weeks in the office, he only had a few casual interactions with others. However, once he brought Eddie in, he was approached by more people and quickly formed relationships with coworkers—helping to foster a stronger sense of community.

For some, approaching a dog can feel more comfortable than engaging directly with people. As Positively explains, “neurons in the amygdala, the brain’s emotional center, respond preferentially to animal images.” This explains why some individuals, particularly those feeling nervous or unsure, might gravitate towards a dog before engaging with people. In our space, Eddie tends to get more attention than Sam—poor Sam!

Boosting Productivity and Creativity

While it might seem counterintuitive, having dogs in the office can actually improve productivity. Regular breaks are essential for maintaining focus and creativity throughout the workday, and dogs encourage employees to take short, refreshing breaks. Whether it’s a quick walk or a playful moment, these breaks help employees return to their work with renewed energy.

Dogs can also bring comic relief to the office with their goofy personalities, lifting everyone’s spirits and sparking light hearted conversations. These brief moments of joy can brighten the entire office, enhancing both productivity and team morale. A survey by Purina found that 63% of employees felt more productive when they were able to bring their dog to work.

Reducing Absenteeism and Supporting Work-Life Balance

Another often-overlooked benefit of dogs in the office is their potential to reduce absenteeism. Employees who love dogs are more likely to enjoy coming into the office, knowing they’ll be around their furry friends. Additionally, allowing employees to bring their dogs to work can reduce the need for dog-sitting, making it easier for them to maintain a balance between personal responsibilities and work commitments.

Take Rocco, for example—our smallest office dog. Rocco’s owner cannot work from home, and since Rocco can’t be left alone for long periods, our dog-friendly office has been a huge relief. Without the worry of dog-sitting costs, Rocco’s owner can come to work every day with peace of mind and stay positive and present throughout the workday.

Enhancing Employee Satisfaction and Retention

Companies that adopt dog-friendly policies are likely to see higher levels of employee retention and satisfaction. Employees appreciate workplaces that understand their personal needs and support a healthy work-life balance. According to a report from Banfield Pet Hospital, 88% of employees at dog-friendly workplaces reported higher levels of job satisfaction, and 86% said they felt more connected to their company’s mission.

Allowing dogs in the office not only promotes a more positive work environment, but it also makes the workplace more attractive to current and potential employees. For many, the ability to bring their dog to work is a valuable perk that enhances overall job satisfaction.

Conclusion: A Tail-Wagging Win for Everyone

From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting productivity and morale, the benefits of having dogs in the office are undeniable. Dogs not only improve the mental and physical wellbeing of employees, but they also foster a more collaborative, creative, and enjoyable work environment. While office dogs are not for everyone and a company must consider all variables before deciding whether being pet-friendly is the right choice for them, we have seen such positive feedback from our dog-friendly policy and can see the benefits throughout our space. After all, in the hustle and bustle of office life, sometimes the best way to boost morale is through a little tail wagging by your side.