Why ‘Take Your Dog to Work Day’ is Good for Business (and How to Prepare)
With Take Your Dog to Work Day coming up on Friday, 26 June 2026, workplaces across Australia are being encouraged to embrace the initiative as a fun, practical way to boost office morale, connection, and overall wellbeing.
Australia is officially a nation of pet lovers, with 7.7 million households now owning at least one pet—and dogs holding prime position in 49% of our homes. [¹] For many employees, four-legged companions are true members of the family, and introducing them to the office for a day can create a lighter, warmer, and more collaborative work environment.
The Power of the Office Pup
One of Australia’s most recognised veterinarians and pet experts, Dr Katrina Warren, notes that dogs have a profound effect on human emotion and stress levels, especially when introduced into shared spaces thoughtfully.
“Dogs have a wonderful ability to bring people together,” says Dr Katrina. “They help break the ice, encourage people to pause, start conversations, and naturally foster a more relaxed atmosphere. Take Your Dog to Work Day is a lovely opportunity for workplaces to celebrate the unique bond Australians share with their pets.”
The logic isn't just anecdotal; it's backed by local data. Australian education settings are already demonstrating how dogs support emotional wellbeing. According to Dogs Connect, an organisation implementing therapy dogs in schools nationwide, 92% of students surveyed felt more relaxed during teaching and learning time when a dog was present in the classroom. [²]
Furthermore, Monash University research into school-based therapy dogs confirmed these programs positively impact emotional, physical, academic, and social wellbeing. [³]
Prioritising the 'Pawsitive' Prep
While the benefits are clear, Dr Katrina warns that the key to a successful dog-friendly day lies entirely in the preparation.
“A successful dog-friendly day starts well before the dogs actually arrive,” she notes. “Business owners need to set simple, transparent guidelines, ensure all staff are comfortable, designate specific dog-free zones, and provide clear expectations so everyone can enjoy the day.”
Part of that workplace planning involves opening up a dialogue with participating staff to discuss breeds, temperaments, energy levels, and general behaviour.
“Not every dog will thrive in a busy office environment. For some pets, the unfamiliar sounds, constant movement, and new faces can feel overwhelming or stressful. In those cases, the kindest choice an owner can make is to let them stay relaxed at home.”
Workplaces should also map out the practical details beforehand—ensuring adequate access to water bowls, outdoor toilet break areas, and quiet spaces. Key communal areas like kitchens or client-facing meeting rooms should ideally remain completely dog-free.
Training and Essential Checklist
It’s not just business owners who need to prep; pet owners should ensure their dogs are ready for office etiquette. Practising basic training beforehand—like teaching your dog to calmly lie on a mat or bed on cue—will make a world of difference.
“The office is full of exciting new stimuli, so it helps immensely if visiting dogs are already comfortable being out and about in public,” says Dr Katrina. “Pack a 'go-bag' with familiar items like a favourite blanket, treats, a water bowl, and plenty of waste bags. The goal is a feel-good day for staff, businesses, and their four-legged visitors alike.”
Ultimately, participation should always be voluntary. Businesses must remain mindful of staff who may have allergies or feel nervous around dogs. Establishing clear boundaries ensures that everyone can choose their own level of interaction on the day.
Dr Katrina Warren’s Top Tips for a Smooth Office Day:
- Set expectations early: Inform all staff of the plan ahead of time, outlining where dogs are allowed and what owners need to bring.
- Make it a team effort: Encourage participating owners to chat beforehand about their dogs' personalities and specific needs.
- Establish dog-free zones: Create clear boundaries so staff who prefer not to interact with dogs have plenty of space.
- Match the dog to the day: Honestly assess whether your dog will enjoy the hustle and bustle, or if they’d prefer a quiet day at home.
- Pack the essentials: Don't forget a lead, a comfortable mat, treats, food, a water bowl, and waste bags.
- Plan regular mini-breaks: Schedule short outdoor walks throughout the day so dogs can stretch, go to the toilet, and reset.
- Keep introductions calm: Let dogs approach people and other pets at their own pace, avoiding overwhelming them with too much sudden attention.
- Keep it fun: Consider leaning into the theme with an office photo board, a dog-friendly morning tea, a 'best-dressed bandana' competition, or a small fundraising activity for animal welfare.
Supported by RSPCA Pet Insurance. Read our recent coverage on the brand's new 2026 product launch and underwriting changes here.
References:
- Animal Medicines Australia, Pets in Australia: A national survey of pets and people 2025, published September 2025.
- Dogs Connect, Therapy Dogs for Schools | Wellbeing Dogs, accessed June 2026.
- Baird, R., Berger, E., Grové, C. & Chua, Z., Therapy dogs and school wellbeing: A qualitative study, Monash University research repository, 2023.
🐾 Expand Your Knowledge: Dogs at Work Hub
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