Dog Friendly Company Culture: A Furry Line

The Dog Gone Dilemma

As companies invest more into the lifestyle preferences of employees, one has to wonder does company culture no longer cater to the mainstream but to niche prerogatives? In our techie start-up world where jeans rule the boardroom, working remotely is nothing out of the ordinary we all aspire to the company culture of successful corporations like Google or Amazon, both of whom have opened their doors to employee’s dogs.

More than ever before, canine companions are finding themselves being promoted to champions of the workplace. In fact, 3 percent of U.S. dog owners can bring their dogs to work with them — that’s triple the number from five years ago. Companies that tote “Forbes Top Places to Work” like Build-A-Bear and P&G even have Canine CEOs, almost as if they were co-workers themselves.

Research defends the dog workplace dilemma. According to a Virginia Commonwealth University study, employees who bring their dogs to work produced lower levels of the stress-causing hormone, cortisol; thereby, increasing productivity and healthy work breaks.

So here’s a confession: I am a dog owner and dog lover. I can bring my pups into the office, as can my co-workers, but do I find it makes me more productive?

If I’m being honest, my answer is no.

My dogs are needy and require attention when in my presence, as do all the other fur babies that pass through our door. My pug likes to yell at the refrigerator, summoning all the cheese. Most dogs require supervision, as the office is a great place to get into trouble. Subsequently, I try to limit how often I bring them and examine the schedule to see when the office can tolerate the distraction.

Something else to consider about dogs in the workplace is there are people who DO NOT like dogs, or because of allergies are physically uncomfortable around them. How do major corporations with 3-to-1 dog to person ratios manage? Many state in their application process that if you do not want a dog-friendly environment you need not apply. Is this entirely fair?

I’m as much to blame as anyone for assuming that people who are anti-dog are somehow “bad people” but the truth is, they didn’t take a job at PetSmart. Is there a point where company culture begins to alienate the workplace? Plenty of people are indeed pet-friendly but find the presence of dogs can be distracting.

What is Everywhere’s stance on the dog dilemma? Be a mindful pet owner, just as you would be a mindful parent. Ask your fellow co-workers (especially those in close proximity) if they mind you bringing your pet. Pay attention to your pet’s whereabouts and behavior. Bring toys, treats and a dog bed to keep your dog occupied. And if it isn’t working out, take them home.