Take Your Dog to Work Day—also known as National Take Your Dog to Work Day—is a holiday on which people are encouraged to bring their furry companions to work with them. This holiday is celebrated on the Friday after Father’s Day and is the perfect day for showing your canine pal where you go every day when you head off to work.

The History of Take Your Dog to Work Day

The roots of this holiday can be traced back to the mid-1990s in Great Britain. The holiday was then exported to the United States and was picked up by Pet Sitters International, who founded the event in the States in 1999.

The Advantages of Dogs in the Workplace

Before we researched this holiday, we didn’t think there would be any benefits to a dog-friendly workplace. We just thought it was something that some people did. However, once we started digging into the subject, we realized that there are actually some distinct benefits to having a dog-friendly workplace. We’re going to examine some of those today.

Dog-Friendly Workplaces Are More Productive

Some studies suggest that offices that are dog-friendly have more productive workers. Why is that the case? No one knows for sure, but the theory is that allowing employees to take short breaks to interact with a dog lowers the workers’ stress levels and makes them more productive.

Dogs Promote a Healthier Workplace

The thing about having dogs in the workplace is that every once in a while, the dog has to be taken outside to do their business. By allowing employees the opportunity to take their dogs for short walks, workers can get up from their desks and move around a little bit. And since doctors recommend getting up regularly from your desk, this is a good idea.

It’s Also Good for the Dogs

Another reason why more offices should be dog-friendly is that it helps the employees keep their pets socialized. Instead of the dogs staying at home by themselves while their owners work, they can get the socialization they need, which is so important. This also keeps the employee from worrying about their dog all day.

Celebrating Take Your Dog to Work Day

Anyone who wants to celebrate this holiday and take their dog to work should first consult with their boss or human resources department to make sure that it’s acceptable. If it is acceptable, then bring your dog to work with you and be sure to bring some of the things that the dog might need, such as food, toys, and snacks. And while your dog is hanging out with you at work, be sure to use the hashtag #TakeYourDogToWorkDay and let everyone know that you’re celebrating this holiday.