National Take Your Dog to Work Day

National Take Your Dog to Work Day is a special event that encourages employers to allow employees to bring their canine companions to work for one day. This celebration promotes the human-animal bond and raises awareness about pet adoption from local shelters and rescue groups.

Quick Facts

When is it?: The Friday following Father’s Day each year
Tagged as: A day to celebrate dogs in the workplace
What’s the hashtag?: #TakeYourDogToWorkDay
When was it founded?: 1999
Who founded it?: Pet Sitters International (PSI)

History of National Take Your Dog to Work Day

National Take Your Dog to Work Day was created by Pet Sitters International in 1999 as a unique way to celebrate the human-canine bond and promote pet adoptions. The event was designed to help non-pet owners witness the special connection between their coworkers and their dogs, potentially inspiring them to adopt a pet of their own. What started with approximately 300 participating businesses has grown into a widely celebrated event across the United States and internationally.

Timeline

1999: First celebration of Take Your Dog to Work Day in the United States
2001: Ernie, the adopted pet of PSI President Patti Moran, becomes the first TYDTWDay Poster Dog
2003: More than 5,000 companies participate in the celebration
2015: PSI revives its 2001 theme, “Because who’s ever heard of working like a cat?!”
2018: Marks the 20th annual celebration of Take Your Dog To Work Day

Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	June 20	Friday
2026	June 19	Friday
2027	June 18	Friday
2028	June 23	Friday
2029	June 22	Friday
2030	June 21	Friday

Observed

Take Your Dog to Work Day is observed in numerous countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Israel. The celebration has expanded to include Take Your Cat to Work Day (the Monday of the same week) and Take Your Pet to Work Week (the entire week leading up to Take Your Dog to Work Day). In 2025, Take Your Pet to Work Week will be June 16-20, with Take Your Cat to Work Day on June 16.

Fun Facts About Take Your Dog to Work Day

Dogs have been working alongside humans throughout history, from hunting and tracking to providing security. Take Your Dog to Work Day helps reconnect with this historical partnership in the modern workplace. By 2003, more than 5,000 companies were participating in this event, and the number continues to grow each year. Some companies have been so pleased with the results that they’ve implemented pet-friendly policies year-round.

Quiz

In what year was Take Your Dog to Work Day first celebrated?
What organization founded Take Your Dog to Work Day?
What is the main purpose of Take Your Dog to Work Day?
When is Take Your Cat to Work Day celebrated?

(Answers: 1. 1999, 2. Pet Sitters International, 3. To celebrate dogs and promote adoptions, 4. The Monday of Take Your Pet to Work Week)

FAQs

Q: Can I bring any dog to work on Take Your Dog to Work Day?
A: It’s best to bring well-behaved, socialized dogs that are up-to-date on vaccinations. Check with your employer about specific policies.

Q: What should I bring for my dog on Take Your Dog to Work Day?
A: Bring food, water, favorite toys, a leash, and poop bags to ensure your dog is comfortable and you’re prepared for any situation.

Q: What if my workplace doesn’t participate in Take Your Dog to Work Day?
A: Consider suggesting the event to your employer, highlighting benefits like improved morale and team bonding.

Importance of National Take Your Dog to Work Day

Take Your Dog to Work Day serves multiple important purposes. It celebrates the companionship of dogs, promotes pet adoption from shelters and rescue organizations, and demonstrates the positive effects pets can have on workplace morale and stress reduction. The event also provides an opportunity for businesses to engage with their local pet communities and support animal welfare causes.