The presence of dogs in the workplace can have a calming and positive effect on employees, so it comes as no surprise that the concept of dog-friendly offices is gaining popularity. In this article, we take a closer look at the current top five dog-friendly offices in the UK.
Given humanity’s age-old love affair with dogs, it was only a matter of time before the concept of dog-friendly offices gained acceptance in the workplace. And nowhere else is this innovative and popular trend more prevalent than in the UK, a nation of committed dog lovers.
Studies have shown that the presence of dogs in the workplace can have a calming effect on employees engaged in high-pressure jobs, such as content moderator jobs, where they often deal with challenging and sometimes distressing online content. There’s no doubt that dog-friendly offices can make the workday a little brighter and happier for everyone.
In this article, we teamed up with experts from job aggregator Jooble to take a closer look at the current top five dog-friendly offices in the UK.
Why Bring Dogs to the Workplace?
The interaction between humans and domestic dogs dates back tens of thousands of years, making it one of the earliest and most enduring relationships between humans and animals. Many of us have had the joyful experience of sharing a deep, almost mystical bond with our canine companions — a bond of unconditional love and unerring loyalty. So, it stands to reason that having our four-legged companions in the workplace can offer numerous positive benefits, not only for employees but also for the company we work for.
Let’s look at some of the practical aspects of being allowed to bring our beloved pets to work.
- Interacting with dogs is known to be a great stress reliever. Petting a dog can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress reduction, and reduced stress often leads to increased productivity.
- Having dogs around boosts employee morale, and being allowed to bring our pets to work can make us feel more relaxed, valued, and appreciated.
- A dog-friendly workplace can also be an attractive perk and inspire company loyalty. Employees may be more reluctant to leave a job with such a desirable benefit.
Let’s take a look at the top 5 dog-friendly offices in the UK at present:
Amazon UK (London)
Amazon’s London office, located in the heart of the city, is one of the most dog-friendly workplaces in the country. The company’s “Woof-woof” policy allows employees to bring their dogs to work, provided they follow some basic guidelines. The office features designated dog-friendly areas, including a dog park, where pups can socialize and play. Amazon also provides pet-friendly perks like pet insurance, grooming services, and even a “Paw to Work” day, where employees’ dogs are pampered while their owners work.
BrewDog (Various Locations)
BrewDog, the renowned craft brewery, has embraced the dog-friendly office culture since its inception. Not only are their pubs and taprooms open to four-legged friends, but their office spaces also welcome dogs with open arms. With offices in various locations across the UK, BrewDog encourages a relaxed and pet-inclusive atmosphere. They even have a “Paw-ternity” policy, offering new pet owners paid time off to bond with their fur babies. Talk about a dog-friendly company!
Google UK (London)
Google is known for its innovative and employee-friendly policies, and its London office is no exception. Googlers are allowed to bring their dogs to work and as well as enjoy a range of canine perks. The office features pet-friendly workspaces, a rooftop dog park, and even doggy treats and toys that are readily available. Google understands that having dogs around can boost creativity and reduce stress, making it a win-win for both employees and their pets.
Etsy UK (London)
Etsy, the online marketplace for handmade and unique items, takes a ‘pawsitive’ approach to the workplace. Their London office is definitely dog-friendly, and employees often bring their dogs to work. Etsy provides amenities like dog beds, water stations, and outdoor areas for pets to roam. The company also hosts regular dog-friendly events and encourages employees to participate in pet-related initiatives.
Innocent Drinks (London)
Innocent Drinks, known for its delicious smoothies and commitment to sustainability, is also committed to creating a dog-friendly workplace. Their London office boasts a “Bark Garden” where dogs can relax, and employees can unwind during breaks. Their dog-friendly policies include flexible working hours for dog owners and a welcoming atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Having dogs roaming around the office is obviously not the ideal scenario for more formal companies. However, the trend of dog-friendly offices is definitely on the rise in the UK, and these top five examples demonstrate the positive impact it can have on employees in the workplace. Let’s face it, what puts a smile on your face and gives you a feel-good moment quicker than petting a four-legged friend?
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