Does an Office Dog Suit Your Work Culture?
Benchmark Recruit Employer Advice, advice-centre
The pitter-patter of furry feet is becoming a regular feature in th workplace and the word is this is makes for a more productive work culture.
Do you the experts think a dog is good for your work culture?

If you think your dog has what it takes to be an Office Dog then here are some seeds to sow with your colleagues so they can see the benefits.
1. Dogs can provide you with a natural break from your screen and encourage people not to remain seated for the entire working day - you could even have a rota for walks in lunch hours.
2. Playing with a dog increases levels of stress-reducing hormone oxytocin and decreases the production of the stress hormone cortisol - who wouldn't want a stress free office?!
3. Having a dog can improve job satisfaction boosting morale and employee performance, and believe it or not people want to work longer hours.
Is an Office Dog for every work place?
Admittedly dogs aren't for everyone and some people have genuine fears, even allergies, or maybe they just don't like dogs - one thing's for sure it should be a team decision to have one in your office. We've heard of some businesses being quiet literally 'hounded' by neighbouring businesses howling hounds. So we guess there are some house rules to consider if you have an office dog or are thinking one:
1. If you work in a shared workspace consider whether your dog is well trained as if you have a noisy barking dog then this may not be welcomed by your business neighbours
2. Before you commit to an office dog check the rules of your building as not all work spaces are open to it
3. In order to avoid divides in your office, make sure you consider everyone's views and maybe bring in your dog part-time initially to get people used to their new colleague and then build up the time they spend in the office
What about the dog?
We can only imagine for a dog being love and fussed all day - as oppose to being home along waiting for the dog walker, or looking out of the window pining for your owner to return - is surely a more preferable way to spend your day. For an office dog social interaction is great for their own development and is a vital as a regular walk. Surely it's a winner for a dog plus you'll save on dog walking bills.
If you are interested in hearing more on innovative ways to improve your office culture talk to one of the team here at Benchmark