Can Bringing a Dog to Work Really Decrease Stress?

Posted by Michelle

Maggie, DogVacay's mascot, at DogVacay headquarters

It’s 8 in the morning and the most dreadful part of your day is approaching: leaving your dog at home as you leave for work. Although there seems like no way out of this bound-to-happen routine, going to work can be guilt-free, as one study found. Virginia Commonwealth University conducted the first quantitative study that looked at the effect of bringing your dog to work. Published in the International Journal of Workplace Management, the study monitored the stress levels of employees who brought their dog to work and those who didn’t. It was found that the stress levels of those who didn’t bring their dogs to work increasingly rose throughout the day and nearly doubled by the end of the day. On the other hand, pooch lovers who brought their best friend to work had reduced stress levels and were even more productive throughout the day. 50% of people who brought their dogs to work reported feeling that their dog made them more productive.

Aaron, founder of DogVacay, with his dog at work

Following up with Replacements, LTD employees throughout the day by asking them a series of questions regarding their stress level, the dog-friendly company is a relatively stress-free environment that encompasses co-worker cooperation and increased employee morale. The study also found that dogs are becoming more prevalent in small offices, but we have proof that dogs are even prominent in big offices. President Obama lets his dog Bo routinely roam around in the White House (after all, running the country is pretty stressful, right?)

It’s no secret that dogs are remarkably beneficial to humans, but if you’re looking to minimize your stress, maximize your chances of making your boss happy (due to your increase in productivity), and overall feel good throughout your stressful workday, then consider bringing your canine companion to work with you.

Check out DogVacay’s “Dogs at Work” photo gallery!