What is Take Your Dog to Work Day?

Take Your Dog to Work Day is held every year on the Friday after Father’s Day and is observed in several countries around the world. The day invites employees to bring their dogs to the workplace to celebrate the companionship of dogs and to promote adoption from shelters.

The focus is on showing how dogs can bring joy, reduce stress, and create a positive environment at work. The event also serves as a chance to raise awareness about the many dogs waiting for a home.In the Netherlands, the day is not officially recognised but is sometimes celebrated in pet-friendly offices or by animal welfare groups. It is also used as a moment to draw attention to local shelters and responsible pet ownership.

History and Origin

Take Your Dog to Work Day was founded in 1999 by Pet Sitters International. The goal was to highlight the special bond between humans and dogs, while also encouraging adoption. It aimed to inspire dogless colleagues to consider adopting by experiencing a workplace filled with wagging tails.

The idea gained popularity in the United States and later spread to other countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Many companies began to adopt the practice informally, with some making it a regular part of their culture.

The date after Father’s Day was chosen to give it a strong place in the calendar without conflicting with major holidays or other pet-related observances.

Who participates in Take Your Dog to Work Day?

• Employees: Bring their dogs to work to share joy and encourage a relaxed atmosphere.
• Employers: Support the day by allowing dogs in the office and promoting team spirit.
• Animal shelters: Collaborate with companies to raise awareness about adoption.
• Pet-related businesses: Offer treats, discounts, or services tied to the event.
• Workplace communities: Host events that include both dogs and colleagues for bonding.

Slogans and Themes

Take Your Dog to Work Day promotes friendship, animal welfare, and workplace wellbeing. Common slogans include “Because every dog deserves a job,” “Let dogs do what they do best: make people happy,” and “Adopt today, wag tomorrow.” The themes focus on adoption, connection, and stress relief.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors

• Blue: Represents loyalty and calm, often linked to office life.
• Green: Reflects harmony, nature, and the well-being of pets.
• Orange: Adds energy and positivity, often used in promotional graphics.

Symbols

• Paw print: A simple icon that stands for dogs and their presence in our lives.
• Leash: Symbolises responsibility and the bond between owner and pet.
• Dog bone: Refers to comfort, rewards, and the fun side of caring for a dog.

Patterns

• Checkerboard tiles: Often used in retro themes and pet branding.
• Wavy lines: Suggest playfulness and freedom of movement.
• Hearts and paws: Combine love and loyalty in decorative designs.

Most used hashtags

• #TakeYourDogToWorkDay
• #DogsAtWork
• #AdoptDontShop
• #PetFriendlyOffice
• #DogLoversUnite

How do you celebrate Take Your Dog to Work Day?

• Bring your dog to work: Spend the day with your pet in the office if allowed.
• Share adoption info: Distribute flyers or post about local shelters and adoption stories.
• Plan a dog-friendly lunch: Include snacks for both dogs and humans in a casual meet-up.
• Organise a photo wall: Encourage colleagues to take and share fun pictures.
• Create a donation box: Collect toys, blankets, or funds for a local animal shelter.

Why is Take Your Dog to Work Day important?

Take Your Dog to Work Day is important because it reminds people of the positive role dogs play in human lives. It encourages a more open, balanced workplace and can reduce daily stress. More importantly, it helps bring attention to the many dogs in need of homes.

By making this day part of office life, companies show care not just for employees but also for animal welfare. The result is stronger teams, better moods, and hopefully, a few more dogs finding forever homes.