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 2026 observance marks the 28th annual celebration of this event, which was first established in 1999.
• The entire week leading up to the main day is designated as 'Take Your Pet To Work Week,' providing an expanded timeframe for workplaces to participate.
• Official festivities for the week include 'Take Your Cat To Work Day,' which serves as an inclusive kickoff for pet lovers of all kinds.
• Participants can access a free event toolkit from Pet Sitters International, which contains templates for employee participation forms and planning tips.
• The event encourages remote-friendly celebrations, allowing employees who work from home to join in by showcasing their pets virtually and supporting animal rescue groups.
• Founded by Pet Sitters International, the primary mission of the day is to celebrate the companionship of dogs and promote the adoption of pets from local shelters and humane societies.
• Scientific research, such as studies often highlighted during the event, indicates that the presence of pets in the office can reduce employee stress, boost morale, and improve social interactions.
• While the event promotes the bond between humans and animals, it emphasizes that 'etiquette matters,' encouraging owners to ensure their dogs are well-socialized and comfortable in a professional environment.
• Best practices for a successful day include obtaining formal permission from management and surveying coworkers to ensure that no individuals have allergies or fears regarding animals.
• Participation is entirely voluntary and unofficial, meaning companies are free to adapt the event to their specific policies, building codes, and local regulations.

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