London has most dog-friendly offices
Greater London is the UK region that has the most dog-friendly offices, new data reveals.
Research from The Kennel Club reveals that 40% of dog owners say their workplace is open to dogs and 22% having specific dog-friendly policies in place.
The data shows London was more than 12% higher than the national average, with 30% of owners nationwide allowed to bring their dogs into the workplace, followed by the South West (36%) and East Midlands (35%). Both Yorkshire and the Humber and the East of England were trailing behind, both 22% of workplaces in the regions open for dogs.
Benefits cited for bringing dogs into work included that dogs can have a positive impact in the workplace (61%), boost morale and job satisfaction (60%) and improve productivity (57%). More than half of owners nationwide (55%) would be more likely to take a job that allowed dogs in the workplace, rising to nearly two-thirds of workers aged 25-34 (62%).
Charlotte McNamara, spokesperson for The Kennel Club, said: “Welcoming dogs into the workplace can help to boost morale, encourage productivity and foster a positive atmosphere, and responsible dog-friendly policies can be really advantageous for owners, colleagues and dogs alike, so we encourage businesses – both in London and nationwide – to be Open for Dogs.
“Of course, it is the owner’s responsibility to ensure their dog is an exemplary colleague and to make all the necessary preparations to have them ‘office-ready’. This includes factoring in their dog’s needs with exercise and regular breaks, as well as making sure their dog is happy, confident and well-trained.”
The Kennel Club has launched the Open for Dogs campaign, which encourages businesses, workplaces and other public places to welcome dogs responsibly. The campaign also provides advice, tools and resources for businesses who want to implement a dog-friendly policy, as well as tips for owners who want to bring their dog to work.
