Nearly half of people think companies should allow workers to bring their dogs to work, according to a survey by Skout.

The findings suggest that dogs at work may be more popular than many may think, with 14 per cent of respondents saying they bring their dog to work, at least some of the time.

People who work in an office are even more likely to bring their dog to work — with 21 per cent saying they bring their four-legged friend to their workplace.

The survey reflects a feeling that dogs can make you happier, more productive and less stressed at work.

— 74 per cent of people surveyed say that dogs make employees feel happier in the workplace, while 78 per cent of office workers think the same.

— 63 per cent of people surveyed say that dogs help lower employees’ stress levels at work. Among office workers, that jumps to 67 per cent.

— 43 per cent of everyone surveyed say that dogs make employees more productive. Office workers especially think so — with 51 per cent saying canine coworkers enhance productivity.

Dogs give companies a “cool factor.”

— 51 per cent of people surveyed say being able to bring your tail-wagger to work makes your company a cool place to work. Workers age 30 and under especially think so (58 per cent).

Best company perk? Pooches are more popular than table tennis tables.

When it comes to perks in the workplace, the ability to bring your dog to work is preferred three times as much as the option of having a table tennis or foosball table.

One possible problem: getting along with your boss’s dog!

— 9 per cent of people surveyed say the biggest downside of having dogs in the workplace would be having to pretend they like their boss’s dog, even if they don’t.

Dogs rule, cats drool.

— 78 per cent of people surveyed say they prefer Take Your Dog To Work Day, while 22 per cent prefer Take Your Cat To Work Day.

“These survey results echo the many benefits we experience of having friendly canines in our office,” said Christian Wiklund, co-founder and CEO of Skout. “As a company that helps people connect and meet new friends, we can’t help but think about man’s best friend, too.”

Five tips for bringing your dog to work:

Get it approved: just because others bring their dogs in, does not mean it is a free for all. Make sure you have all the necessary approvals from management, and understand any ground rules, before you bring your pooch.

Don’t delegate: Remember that as the dog owner you are 100 per cent responsible, 100 per cent of the time for your pet’s well being, behaviour, and biological needs. Don’t ask your team to walk or clean up after your dog!

Bring on the goodies! Just like people enjoy snacks and games in the break room, so do your dogs. Biscuits and toys can help you encourage positive interactions with your dog and your co-workers throughout the day.

Remember doggy hygiene: the only thing worse than a smelly co-worker is a smelly dog! Give Fido a bath and proper grooming before bringing him to work.

Remember breakfast is the most important meal of the day, for your dog, too! Feed your dog before going to work, so they don’t get “hangry” and nip your co-workers.