Take Your Dog To Work Day

Take Your Dog To Work Day History

Take Your Dog to Work Day is an annual observance that celebrates the bond between canines and their human companions. It aims to raise awareness of the benefits of pet ownership and encourage adoptions from shelters and rescue groups. The event encourages employers to open their workplaces to employees' four-legged family members for a day, creating a unique experience that brings joy and camaraderie to the work environment.

The observance was first celebrated in 1999 in the United States. Promoted by the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), the event supports the notion that bringing dogs to work can boost employee morale, reduce stress, and encourage a positive work-life balance. In addition, Canadian pet lovers can use the occasion to increase awareness about the importance of adopting pets from local shelters or rescue organizations that aim to provide these animals with forever homes.

Canadian workplaces that choose to partake in this delightful event often organize various pet-friendly activities and amenities to make the day enjoyable and safe for four-legged companions. Some companies plan group walks, arrange pet-care services, or even host on-site dog training sessions. Employees are encouraged to share photos of their canine colleagues on social media using the hashtag #TakeYourDogToWorkDay, creating an online buzz to further promote the benefits of this practice. In Canada, Take Your Dog to Work Day is observed on June 23rd.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 Take Your Dog To Work Day in Canada

• The week encompassing this observance is designated as Take Your Pet To Work Week®, offering a broader opportunity for various companion animals to join the workplace beyond just canine participants.
• The event specifically features a kick-off on the preceding Monday, which is officially recognized as Take Your Cat To Work Day®.
• The initiative was founded by Pet Sitters International in 1999 to celebrate the bond between humans and dogs while actively promoting pet adoption from shelters and humane societies.
• Research tracked by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute indicates that pet-friendly workplaces often see significantly higher levels of employee engagement and retention compared to those that do not allow pets.
• Professional environments that welcome dogs frequently report reduced stress levels, improved staff morale, and enhanced social interaction among colleagues.
• Participation is entirely voluntary for businesses, and organizers strongly emphasize obtaining management approval and considering the comfort of all staff members—such as those with allergies or phobias—before implementing pet-inclusive policies.
• The observance is recognized globally, with growing participation across Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Israel.
• Many participating companies integrate a charitable component into the day, using the event as a platform to raise funds for animal welfare organizations and local rescue groups.
• Successful workplace integration often involves designating specific pet-friendly zones, ensuring water and supplies are available, and encouraging brief 'brain breaks' that allow employees to walk and bond with their pets.
• The event is a registered trademark of Pet Sitters International, which provides standardized toolkits and resources to help employers organize safe and productive office celebrations.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Take Your Dog To Work Day

Top things to do in Canada for Take Your Dog To Work Day

• Take your dog to work! If your company or place of work allows it, bring along your furry friend. Make sure to provide a comfortable space along with food and water.
• If you company or place of work doesn't allow pets, plan a special day for your pets. Take them to the park and spend a little extra time with them or purchase them a new toy.
• Watch The Stray (2017). This film tells the story of a stray dog named Pluto, who comes out of nowhere and impacts a struggling family. The dog saves a toddler, brings comfort and companionship to an older child with special needs, and restores a marriage on the brink of falling apart.
• Read a book to learn more about how dogs have a positive impact in the workplace and how to manage a pet-friendly office. Some suggestions include:
  1. The Dog's Mind: Understanding Your Dog's Behavior by Bruce Fogle
  2. Pets at Work: How to Grow Your Business by Going Pet-Friendly by Eric Travis
  3. Dogs at Work: A Practical Guide to Creating Dog-Friendly Workplaces by Janetta Harvey