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You’re the Expert: Do You Allow Dogs in the Workplace?

In every issue, we take one reader’s question and ask our other readers to weigh in. Here’s what you had to say about a recent question:

We’ve got a few employees who are really lobbying to bring their dogs to work. We see a lot of pros and a lot of cons—what do you think?


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Here’s what you had to say:

  • Approximately 15 percent of the population is allergic to dogs and/or cats. If even one employee objects to animals in the workplace based on such a medical condition, the answer has to be a resounding “no,” as a company cannot jeopardize one employee’s health over another’s desire to bring a dog to work. The only way to secure an absolute right to bring Fido to work with you is to start your own business and include your pet from day one, so prospective employees understand that working with you also includes interacting with your furry friend. — R.S.
  • I allow them unless the dog disrupts other employees. You need “dog rules” if dogs are permitted in the workplace. For example, employees cannot leave the dog alone for any extended time and cannot ask other employees to dog-sit except in emergency situations. No aggressive dogs are allowed. No barkers. Must be potty-trained. We strongly suggest that both the dog and the employee be a graduate of a reputable dog training program. I had an employee complain that a dog down the hall was causing her to have an allergic reaction. I paid for her to have allergy tests, and it turned out she was allergic to cats—which she owned. As with anything, managing this situation comes with some challenges. However, in my experience, having a few happy and controlled dogs in the office makes for a happier and more controlled workforce. — J.B.
  • Wanting your dog with you while you work is why telecommuting was invented. This is not a “benefit” we’ll be offering anytime soon. — F.J.
  • We did a trial run—dogs allowed for one week. At the end of the week, we found it wasn’t for us. This wasn’t because of allergies or complaints but because our office is small and tripping over Rex and Fifi was a problem. This is something we never would have thought would be an issue, so we’re glad we did a “test drive.” — A.R.

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