Pros and cons of dogs in the workplace

Take a look at both the pros and cons of bringing your dog to work with you. 

Up until the last century or so, most dogs were bred and trained for specific jobs, such as hunting, herding, or guarding. When people took their dogs to work, it was out to the farmyard, or the forests and fields. Dogs received a lot of physical exercise and mental stimulation while performing their tasks alongside their human handlers. 

Nowadays, people still take their dogs to work – but the setting is more likely to be an office rather than outdoors. What are the pros and cons of dogs in the workplace today? 

Workplace dogs a steadily growing trend 

Bringing dogs into the workplace has been trending for quite some time. People who work long hours often feel better when they can bring their dogs to work. This is especially true if their dogs get bored or anxious when left alone all day. 

The dogs get lots of attention and stimulation. Meanwhile, human workers feel less stressed and burned out when they can pet and play with them. 

Since the pandemic, more dogs have entered the workplace than ever. To combat the loneliness of working from home during lockdown, many people adopted dogs from shelters and rescues. 

When employers asked workers to return to the office after the pandemic, many dogs developed separation anxiety. They weren’t used to being left alone. The solution was for people to bring their dogs to work. Many employers encouraged this as a way to entice workers back to the office. 

Consider your dog’s needs before taking him to work

Many dogs love accompanying their people to work. However, not all dogs are suited for indoor environments. Offices with small cubicles, many employees, and hectic atmospheres can be overwhelming for some dogs.

Consider breed, temperament, and age when deciding if your dog is a good candidate for spending the day at the office with you. 

• Breed and exercise:

  Breeds that require a lot of physical activity, such as collies, shepherds, and retrievers, may find it difficult to spend a long day lying around in an office cubicle. A lack of exercise can cause restlessness, vocalization, and behavior issues. If you’re going to take a dog like this to work, you’ll have to make time to take her out for walks as well as potty breaks during the day, so she can get some exercise.

• Age and health:

  Your dog’s age is something else to think about. “Adult dogs with good training and socialization skills might make better candidates for the workplace,” says dog trainer Judy Shevelev. “Senior dogs could as well, unless the work environment doesn’t give them the chance to get the rest they need.” Consider any health conditions your dog may have. For example, stairs could be difficult for dogs with arthritis or mobility issues. Other conditions may require your dog to get more rest and quiet than a busy office environment provides.

• Temperament:

  How does your dog get along with other animals and people? Even well-trained dogs with good temperaments may run into conflicts in an office that allows multiple dogs, especially if those dogs have different temperaments or aren’t well-trained. “Perhaps the most important thing to consider is the impact your dog has on your coworkers and other dogs in the office,” says Judy. “You want to ensure your dog is comfortable and that bringing her to the office enriches her life, not causes stress.”

Home versus office – which is best for your dog?

While it’s understandable for people not to want to leave their dogs at home while at work all day, in some cases, this might be the better option. Some canines prefer staying in a familiar environment where they know what’s expected of them.

If you feel your dog would be better off at home, but you work long hours, arrange for someone to check on her a couple of times a day. They should take her for walks and provide some attention and playtime. Ask a friend or family member to help, or hire a dog walker or pet sitter. 

“A bit of extra stress, if it includes enrichment, isn’t a bad thing,” says Judy. “However, chronic stress harms dogs just as it harms us. It can lead to both physical and emotional problems.” 

“We must weigh the pros and cons of leaving a dog in her comfortable territory versus taking her to a new environment that might harm her well-being.”

Dog trainer and behaviorist, Debby McMullen, emphasizes that it’s important to consider the work environment as well as the dog’s temperament. 

“Many dogs find most workplaces too busy for them,” she says. In addition, if you’re away from your desk a lot, or spend a lot of time in meetings, your dog may get stressed unless she knows where you are. 

“Separation from their humans in a less emotionally comfortable environment raises cortisol levels and causes anxiety in many dogs,” says Debby. However, research shows that a relaxed workspace where a dog stays with her human increases canine well-being.

Debby suggests a quiet office or work area with a comfy dog bed, some favorite toys, and mental enrichment items such as a snuffle mat and recreational chews.

Dogs in the workplace have become commonplace, and taking your dog to the office is a great option for sociable, well-trained canines who love being around people. As long as you consider your dog’s needs alongside your own, it can be a win-win situation!

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