Etiquette: Taking Your Dog to Work

Today, individuals are working longer hours and spending less time enjoying the comforts of their home. As a result, employers are always searching for innovative ways to keep employees content in the workplace. One approach to boast employee morale and productivity is to admit dogs in the workplace.

A recent study showed that having dogs in the workplace lowered stress. This study, published by the International Journal of Workplace Health Management, showed that the majority of persons polled believe that the benefits to having pets at work are relieving stress; improving relationships with co-workers; making a happier workforce; creating an improved work environment; and employees getting exercise.

But before employers allow you to share the daily grind of work-life with your pet, they must confirm that dogs can be admitted in office building-especially, if they don’t own the facilities- as well as assess any potential liability issues that could result from this idea. In many cases, building management companies will not allow dogs other than a service dogs on the premises because if an incident occurs involving your dog such as a dog bite incident, the building or your company will be subject to liability since they could be potentially the deep pocket payees.

Now, if you are allowed to bring your pet to the office whether for every day or for just one day of the year, recognize having your dog at the office is a privilege not to be taken lightly. Should you bring her to the office, as with any office candidate, make sure that she has the right qualifications. Take your dog to the office only if she is housebroken, friendly with strangers, and remains calm in a foreign environment. Your pooch should also be well-mannered, walking nicely on a leash and having a training repertoire of come, sit and stay.

These days secure employment, you not only have to be smart but you have to look the part. Make a favorable impression by arriving with a healthy, clean dog that is parasite-free. Your dog’s appearance is will make the first real impression when he arrives at the office and his behavior will either confirm that he is a pleasure to work with or a real beast to be avoided at all costs,

To ensure that you both have an enjoyable and productive day, bring his pet supplies of a bowls, toys, treats and crate to the office. With his favorite things around, he will not be distracted by the corporate hubbub and will easily settle down with some of his own pet projects.

Although everyone might like your dog at the workplace, recognize that you dog is your responsibility. Don’t ask your assistant, a secretary or a junior associate to take care of your dog. Your subordinate might feel obligated to take care of pet for the day but recognize that dog care is not part of his or her job description.

Now, should you and your dog have to leave your office or cubicle for any reason, either leave him in his crate or make sure if you drag him to meeting, you have him on a short leash. For the workplace, use a four foot leash for better control when walking him around the office. When riding elevators, meeting and greeting office personnel, place your dog in a sit/stay. By being obedient, he will demonstrate that he is a reliable and confident team player that can follow direction.

Although it is hard to believe, not everyone loves dogs. Be considerate and respectful of those who are fearful and/or allergic. If necessary, keep your dog in your office.

For more about bringing your dog to work, read our tips about Take Your Dog to Work Day.