This is especially so in the United States where, for more than 20 years, National Take Your Dog to Work Day has been held in June, encouraging people to bring their four-legged friend along to work. The idea is now making headway in other countries.

Beyond its fun aspect, the trend could have real benefits for employee well-being. According to research conducted by the United Kingdom’s University of Lincoln in 2019, employees who often bring their dogs to work are 22% more satisfied with their working conditions.

The study also estimates that owners who work alongside their dogs show greater absorption in their work (33.4%) and increased dedication (16.5%).

Another major argument has emerged since the pandemic. Accustomed to working alongside their furry friends during lockdowns, many pet owners felt heartbroken at the thought of having to go back to the office and leave their faithful companion at home.

In a survey conducted by British company Bark last year, more than 70% of dog owners who work from home said they feared missing their pet when they return to the office, more than those who said the same about their partner (42%) or their children (39%).

Allowing employees to come to work with their pets could, therefore, be a good option to encourage them to come back to the office more often.

Some sectors, however – such as health, food, or public administration – may have regulations forbidding the presence of pets onsite.

Otherwise, it’s better to check beforehand that this practice complies with your company’s internal regulations, and remember to inform your colleagues. If any of your co-workers in an open-plan office are allergic or phobic, they might not be happy to see you show up unexpectedly in the office with your furry friend – however cute they may be.