Creating a Pawsitive Workplace Culture3 min read
Imagine you arrive at work on a Monday morning, coffee in hand, and you’re greeted by a wagging tail and big, trusting eyes. Suddenly, the week just got even better...
The Benefits of Dogs in the Workplace
Natural mood boosters - Studies have shown that interacting with dogs reduces cortisol and boosts oxytocin. Just five minutes of playtime or cuddles can restore calm and focus, making employees more resilient throughout the day. Christina testifies, "I am ready to tackle any and all tasks after just a few minutes with a dog".
Encouraging wellness and balance - In today’s always-on culture, employees often forget to take breaks. Dogs don’t. Their bathroom breaks and walks become gentle reminders for people to get outside, stretch their legs, and clear their minds. Far from being a distraction, these short pauses can actually boost productivity and spark creativity. Many of our employees even report returning from a quick dog walk with fresh ideas or renewed energy.
Building stronger workplace connections - A simple “What’s your dog’s name?” can start conversations between colleagues who might not otherwise interact. This fosters a warmer, more inclusive environment. Office dogs help turn workplaces from a collection of desks into a community.
Attracting and retaining talent - Especially for younger generations, workplace culture matters just as much as salary. Companies that allow pets in the office often stand out as progressive and employee-focused. Job seekers love perks that reflect a flexible, human approach, and few perks are more memorable than being allowed to bring your dog to work.
Why It Matters To Us
For Cloud9, dogs in the office aren’t just about cuteness (though that helps). They’re a symbol of the culture we’re building: a workplace where people feel comfortable, supported, and free to be themselves.
One of our company values is positivity, and nothing brightens people’s days like a friendly face and a wagging tail. As Lucy says, "It always makes me smile when I see a furry face in the office". We are committed to creating a family-like and joyful community in the workplace and our acceptance of furry friends is a big part of this.
By welcoming dogs, we bring warmth and energy into our office. A dog-friendly workplace signals trust, flexibility, and an understanding that when employees are happier and healthier, they do better work. Sometimes the best productivity hack isn’t another app or workflow, it’s a joyful bark reminding you to step away from the screen.
Making It Work
Of course, balancing tails and tasks takes some structure. Here are some examples of what you can do to make sure everyone is comfortable:
- Provide water bowls and dog beds in the office.
- Not every dog is suited to office life, so make sure your furry visitors are social, calm, and happy in a busy environment.
Final Thoughts
Welcoming dogs into the office creates an environment where employees feel more relaxed, connected, and motivated.
At Cloud9 Insight, dogs aren’t just visitors, they’re part of the family. They brighten our days, strengthen our culture, and remind us that even in the busiest of times, there’s always room for joy.
So, if you ever stop by our Brighton office, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted not just by our team, but by a wagging tail and a wet nose. After all, at Cloud9, we know that a happy workplace is a productive workplace, and nothing says happiness quite like a dog.