We’ve written about some unconventional on-the-job stress relievers and productivity boosters like napping at work, and have even been recognized for our own out-of-the-box methods like ping pong. But this recent Crain’s Small Business article uncovered a whole new approach to increasing productivity and teamwork on the job that’ll make working feel like a day in the dog park.

More companies are allowing their employees to bring their canine companions to the office citing that the pooches increase productivity, as workers are more inclined to stay longer hours at the office if their furry friends are close by. It’s becoming increasingly common to see job postings with requirements like “must be dog friendly” for jobs in advertising, graphic design, and even in finance! CEOs and other executives say they want their employees to feel like they are part of a community while at work, and having house pets along for the ride brings co-workers together to create a family-like bond.

While the majority of offices embracing the idea of having a dog-friendly environment is in the creative field (they like to encourage a free-spirited culture that breeds creativity), more and more “professional” industries are taking advantage of this low-to-no cost method of building team camaraderie and relieving stress.

So what does this wave of incorporating canines into work culture mean for the future of small businesses? Will potential candidates be more hesitant or more likely to respond to an ad for a job in a dog-friendly workspace? What about candidates with severe pet allergies?

Leave a comment below and tell us what you think!

 


 

 

   Melody Yaghoubi
  Interactive Resources