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Should we have dogs in the office?

By Emma
- July 11, 2025
- 2 MIN READ

Table of Contents

Nearly all Brits are happier with dogs at work

Benefits to having dogs in the office

The downsides of dogs in the office

Should we have dogs in the office?

Meet the dogs at Itch!

Since the introduction of remote working, the modern workplace has changed a lot over the last 5 years. Some offices have even brought in a new type of colleague, the dog. As more and more companies see the benefits, dogs in the office are becoming a well loved part of the working day.

There’s lots of research (which we’ll go into) that shows the benefit of dogs being in the office… So much so that we believe every office should be letting dogs come in! Keep reading to find out how to persuade your boss to let your pet come with you to work or you can just scroll to see cute office dog pictures - we know that's all you really care about.

Nearly all Brits are happier with dogs at work

A survey by Purina in October 2022 found that a whopping 81% of Brits say pet-friendly workplaces are happier. Dogs in the office are ranked highest for overall well-being as The Kennel Club reports that:

70% believe dogs alleviate stress
67% say they make the atmosphere friendlier
51% think dogs improve morale, wellbeing, and job satisfaction

Benefits to having dogs in the office

Stress buster

Stroking a pup for 10–15 minutes can lower your cortisol (stress hormone) and boost oxytocin (the feel-good cuddle hormone), along with blood pressure and heart rate, making your desk a calmer place.
Breaks and physical activity

Dogs encourage their owners and sometimes everyone to take regular breaks, stretch legs, get fresh air… all of which can reset focus and improve creativity.
Team bonding and morale

Dogs are chat-starters! Random discussions over the water cooler or out on doggy lunch, breaks can strengthen teams and spark spontaneous collaboration.
Attracting and retaining talent

Millennials and Gen Z in particular look for dog-friendly policies when searching for jobs. Around 59% of 25–34‑year‑olds are in favour of a dog-friendly office - After all it’s a perk that makes companies stand out.
Work engagement

Studies show, UK employees found those who often brought their dog to work had higher work engagement, better wellbeing, and less desire to leave.

The downsides of dogs in the office

Not everyone’s keen. Some colleagues may be anxious or simply not dog-fans.
Allergies & phobias. Roughly 10–20% of people are allergic to dogs, and some are genuinely frightened.
Distraction factor. While dogs can boost productivity, they can also interrupt focus - especially if they’re playful, barking, or eager for attention.
Welfare for the dogs. Not all dogs thrive in an office environment. Loud noises, confined spaces, and irregular routines may stress them out.
Logistics. You need clear policies: behaviour expectations, cleaning routines, insurance, leasing approvals, and hygiene protocols.

Should we have dogs in the office?

We believe every company should consider the idea of having dogs in the office, if it’s safe and desired by colleagues. Here’s our tips on how to persuade your boss:

Draft a policy

Cover behaviour, training, vet checks, leash rules, insurance, cleaning, restricted zones.
Consult staff

Respect allergies, phobias, and those who work better dog-free.
Start small

Maybe 1–2 dogs a day, or designated "dog days".
Provide support

Dog bowls, beds, waste bin, cleaning supplies.
Monitor and adjust

Check in: Is morale up? Are allergies manageable? Make tweaks.

Meet the dogs at Itch!

If we haven't persuaded you enough that dogs should be in your office, here are some adorable photos of the dogs that regularly visit the Itch HQ.

We’re a nation of dog lovers and the research backs it up that dogs are good for us! So if your office is up for it, it might just become the workplace you’ve always dreamt of.

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