Paws and Professionalism: The Etiquette of Take Your Dog to Work Day

This Friday is “Take Your Dog to Work” Day. Each year, participation in this celebration gives dog lovers a chance to show off their four-legged companions while spreading awareness about pet adoption. What began as a fun, furry workplace perk has grown into a global movement celebrating the human-animal bond. But as charming as the idea is, the day also raises important questions, especially for advocates who understand that not every workplace (or dog) is suited for the experience.

Whether you’re an animal welfare professional or just a passionate pet parent, understanding the etiquette of the day is essential. Here’s how to make it joyful, respectful, and safe—for everyone involved.

1. Know Your Dog

The first rule of Take Your Dog to Work Day? Know your dog. Be honest with yourself. Is your pup anxious in new environments? Reactive around strangers or other animals? Prone to barking, chewing, or marking territory? If so, the best way to honor your dog may be to keep them in a familiar, comforting environment at home.

There’s no shame in opting out. A dog’s well-being should come first, and forcing a high-stress social situation isn’t fair to them, or your coworkers.

2. Get Permission—Formally

Don’t just assume it’s allowed because the day is popular. Check with HR or management, and make sure you understand the company’s policies on pets in the workplace. Are there liability waivers? Vaccination requirements? Designated pet-friendly zones?

Respect for rules helps keep this tradition alive and ensures animal welfare remains a priority, not a novelty.

3. Respect Allergies, Phobias, and Cultural Differences

Just as important as celebrating our furry friends is respecting our human colleagues. Some people are allergic to dogs. Others may have deep-seated fears or religious beliefs that impact their comfort level with animals.

In a diverse workplace, inclusivity means considering everyone’s needs. If someone asks that your dog be kept out of a shared space, honor that boundary. Dogs don’t belong in conference rooms or kitchens, and no one should feel excluded, or unsafe at work.

4. Pack Like a Pro

Prepare for the day like you're going on a field trip with a toddler. Bring:

• Water and bowl

• Food or treats

• Waste bags (and use them)

• Toys for quiet play

• A leash—always

• A mat or bed so your dog has a home base

Never let your dog wander freely, even in pet-friendly spaces. And absolutely no tying dogs to furniture or leaving them unsupervised, even briefly.

5. Keep Advocacy in Mind

This day was created not just for cute Instagram photos, but to promote pet adoption and responsible animal companionship. If you’re participating, take the opportunity to:

• Share your dog’s adoption story

• Wear LAW gear or bring literature about local shelters

• Talk to colleagues about fostering or volunteering

• Organize a donation drive

Workplace culture changes when we lead by example AND compassion.

6. Watch the Clock (and Your Dog)

Even the best-behaved dogs can become overwhelmed. Be prepared to take your dog home early if they show signs of stress: pacing, panting, yawning, whining, hiding, or snapping. The goal isn’t endurance, it’s a positive, low-stress experience for everyone.

Final Thoughts

At Litigation for Animal Welfare, we support events that strengthen the human-animal bond, but we also know that true advocacy begins with responsibility. Take Your Dog to Work Day is a beautiful opportunity to model what animal-friendly workplaces can look like, but only when done thoughtfully.

So plan ahead, be considerate, and remember: your dog’s comfort and your coworkers’ experience matter equally. Let’s make this year’s celebration a model of joyful, respectful coexistence—one wag at a time.