Imagine walking into your office and being greeted by a wagging tail, a cheerful bark, and a furry friend who’s just as excited to see you as your colleagues are. It’s not a dream, pet-friendly workplaces are on the rise, and more businesses are embracing the many benefits of bringing dogs to work.
But behind every well-behaved office dog is an owner who’s done the work and if you’re lucky, a professional dog trainer like Tim Radcliffe.
Meet Tim Radcliffe: A Lifetime of Working With Dogs
Working with Tim Radcliffe throughout this series has been eye-opening. His practical advice for introducing dogs into the workplace is grounded in decades of experience across multiple fields.
Tim has dedicated most of his life to working with dogs, including roles in:
- NZ Police Dog Section
- Aviation Security Detector Dog Unit
- NZ LandSAR Search Dogs
Today, he runs his own thriving business, Tim Radcliffe Dog Training, where he helps dogs (and their humans) become confident, calm, and well-adjusted companions at home and at work.
The Benefits of Allowing Dogs in the Office
Welcoming dogs into the office isn’t just a feel-good initiative, it has real advantages. Research shows that dogs in the workplace can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety levels
- Improve team morale
- Increase movement and physical activity during the day
- Encourage positive social interaction among coworkers
Whether it’s a quick midday walk or a relaxing cuddle with a Labrador between meetings, dogs help create a more relaxed, human-centred office environment.
But First; Training, Cleanliness & Comfort
Of course, having dogs at work comes with responsibilities. Not every dog is suited for the office environment without the right preparation. That’s why Tim Radcliffe stresses the importance of training.
A well-trained office dog is:
- Calm and responsive in shared spaces
- Comfortable with strangers and new environments
- Able to manage distractions without becoming disruptive
Tim’s 5 Training tips to get your dog ready for the office
Here are a few quick training tips to help your pup become the perfect office companion:
1. Basic Commands First – Make sure your dog responds reliably to simple commands like sit, stay, come and leave it. These are key in helping them stay calm and respectful in a shared space.
- 2. Socialisation is Key – Expose your dog to different people, environments and other dogs gradually. A well socialised dog is less likely to react anxiously or aggressively.
- 3. Toilet Training is a Must– Accidents in the office? Big no-no. Ensure your dog is fully house trained and has a regular toileting schedule.
- 4. Create a Calm Space – Bring their bed, a favourite toy and some treats. Having a “safe zone” helps them relax and keeps them from wandering.
5. Start Small – Introduce your dog to the office in short visits before committing to full days. Ease them into the environment.
Remember, bringing dogs to work can be an amazing perk for both humans and pups but it starts with responsibility and good training. Let’s set our dogs up for success so they can be the office MVPs (Most Valuable Pups).
A Happier, Healthier Workplace, One Tail Wag at a Time
As more companies embrace dogs in the workplace, it’s vital to ensure both pets and people are set up for success. With expert training and the right support systems in place, dogs can become a truly positive part of the workday.
And if the tails are wagging, chances are your culture is thriving, too.
Check out our 4th video with Tim here!
