Big thanks to Armada Brands and founder Andreas Hufnagl for welcoming me and the dogs into your brand-new office.

Big thanks to Armada Brands and founder Andreas Hufnagl for welcoming me and the dogs into your brand-new office. It’s always special to be one of the first visitors, and I think it’s safe to say Akiko and Toshiro are t…

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Big thanks to Armada Brands and founder Andreas Hufnagl for welcoming me and the dogs into your brand-new office. It’s always special to be one of the first visitors, and I think it’s safe to say Akiko and Toshiro are t…

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Big thanks to Armada Brands and founder Andreas Hufnagl for welcoming me and the dogs into your brand-new office. It’s always special to be one of the first visitors, and I think it’s safe to say Akiko and Toshiro are the very first four-legged guests to explore the space. The energy of a fresh start, new possibilities, and a team building something great—there’s something really inspiring about being in that environment.

And it got me thinking about something I’ve been sitting with for a while:

I’d love to be part of the movement that brings dogs into the workplace—the right way.

Not just because they’re cute. Not just for fun. But as part of a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to wellness, connection, and community.

Because not all dogs should be in the office. And that’s okay. It’s not a right—it’s a privilege. One that comes with responsibility, training, and a conscious effort to keep everyone—human and animal—safe and respected.

I’ve been to office buildings where the moment my dogs walked in, security guards froze. Not out of hostility, but uncertainty. And I’ve seen others light up in joy, while some kept their distance—due to allergies, fear, or discomfort. All of those reactions are valid.

If we want to bring animals into more shared spaces, we need to recognize what’s at stake. It’s not just about enthusiasm—it’s about education, empathy, and standards.

We also need to correct some major misconceptions around aggression and so-called “dangerous breeds.” Research shows that aggression is not a breed-specific trait—it’s shaped by a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and individual temperament.

Take my own dog, Akiko. She’s a Japanese Akita—a breed that’s banned in some countries because of its perceived aggressiveness. But Akiko absolutely loves humans. She’s playful, affectionate, and has a magnetic personality that draws people in. That said, she does need a bit more support when it comes to interacting with other female dogs. It’s something we’re actively working on, with training and structure. It’s a reminder that every dog, like every person, is a work in progress.

What matters isn’t the breed—it’s the commitment to responsible ownership, consistent behavior shaping, and understanding the dog in front of you.

At Doghouse.PH, we’ve worked with certified Human-Animal Teams and seen firsthand how structured, well-designed animal-assisted programs can enhance well-being. But it has to be done with care. This isn’t about letting every dog through the front door. It’s about building a culture where the presence of animals supports—not disrupts—the workplace.

This is just one step toward a future I believe in: one where we rethink wellness, and where animals and humans thrive together—not just at home, but at work too.

I’d love to hear from others exploring the same space—HR leaders, wellness advocates, animal behaviorists, even skeptics. What would it take for your workplace to be ready for a dog—or not?

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Originally published on LinkedIn: View the original post