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With the emergence of a modern workplace that emphasises innovation and creativity, companies are increasingly looking for ways to increase the productivity and well-being of their employees. One innovative solution that is becoming increasingly popular is the introduction of dogs in the workplace. After all, how nice would it be to have a little wet nose and a wagging tail as part of your daily work routine alongside your morning coffee? In Germany, a full 47 per cent of office workers have their own dog. Unfortunately, only one in two of them can take their dog to work with them. This is despite the fact that fluffy four-legged friends not only bring joy and fun to the office, but also a range of benefits for employees, the company and the dogs themselves.
Stress in the workplace is a common problem that affects the productivity of employees. The presence of an office dog can help to create a relaxed atmosphere and reduce the release of stress hormones. Cuddles and short walks with the dog help to reduce stress and improve the mood in the office. The mere presence of a dog can loosen up the working environment and encourage employees to feel more at ease.
Studies have shown that dogs have a calming effect on people. Petting a dog leads to the release of the hormone oxytocin, which helps to lower blood pressure and reduces stress hormones. The presence of an office dog is a welcome change for employees and can help them to relax when they are stressed or need a break. This leads to improved stress management and can promote the overall mental health of employees. To meet the dog's needs, break times also invite short walks. This motivates employees to leave the workplace regularly, which is both physically and mentally refreshing and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition to walks, short play sessions on the office corridor are an invitation to take short breaks.
An office dog has the potential to increase overall employee satisfaction. Knowing that an animal friend is present can make the working environment more pleasant and increase motivation. Employees who feel good and have a positive working environment are demonstrably more motivated and productive. The office dog can therefore indirectly contribute to improving the performance of the entire team.
An office dog can also signal a flexible and family-friendly working environment. For employees who have pets, being able to bring their dog to work is a huge relief. They don't have to worry about looking after their dog during working hours and feel supported and valued as a result. The Office Dog Index of the Bundesverband Bürohund e.V. confirms the strengthening effect on company loyalty with a 57 per cent lower willingness to change employer in companies with an office dog than in companies without an office dog.
The presence of an office dog can also strengthen team dynamics and communication within the organisation. Dogs are known for their ability to bring people together and encourage social interactions. Employees who have a dog in the office often have something in common that they can talk about, which breaks the ice and promotes trust with each other. The office dog creates a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where employees feel comfortable and can communicate openly with each other.
In addition to the positive effect on employees, an office dog can also help to make the company more attractive to potential applicants. Companies that allow office dogs express openness, a modern work culture and an understanding of the needs of their employees. The ability to bring your own dog to work can therefore be an important factor in deciding in favour of an employer and thus contribute to enhancing the employer brand.
PS: The four-legged friends are particularly popular content on social media.
Of course, our four-legged friends also benefit from a day at the office with their owner. For dogs, being taken to work primarily means social interaction and avoiding loneliness. Dogs are social animals and can quickly suffer from boredom and loneliness. Dogs suffering from separation anxiety in particular benefit enormously from this. This is avoided by constantly being surrounded by people in the office. The pet's development is also stimulated by the regular trips to the office, as the dog develops a fixed routine and thus a feeling of security and relaxation. New people, smells and noises also offer an office dog a lot of variety in everyday life.
Before deciding on an office dog, the character of the dog should be checked, as not every dog is made for everyday office life. A balanced, friendly character that is not afraid of loud noises or lots of people, for example, is well suited to everyday office life. Furthermore, colleagues should be informed in advance about the presence of the dog and their consent obtained. Consideration must be given to possible fears or allergies.
As with employees, it is also important to create a suitable and dog-friendly office environment for dogs. The needs of the office dog can be taken into consideration by providing sufficient resting areas.
This confirms it - dogs in the workplace offer a variety of positive effects for companies, employees and dogs. Office dogs therefore create a win-win situation for everyone involved. As an employee, don't be afraid to point out the benefits of office dogs to your manager and open the door for your four-legged friends to enter your company and enjoy their calming nature. We at ARTS have dared to experiment with office dogs and are completely convinced of their added value!
