Dogs in Japanese offices aim to keep owners happy

TOKYO, Jul 22 (Bloomberg) - Fujitsu is trialling its new dog office until the end of the year at its building in Kawasaki, about a half an hour by train from central Tokyo, as a way to improve employee well-being and productivity.

A 2021 study published in the journal Animals found that having dogs in the office leads to more social interaction and cross-department exchange, and contributes to greater well-being and job satisfaction.

The dog office is covered with stain-proof carpet, free dog food and an indoor play area for a toss and fetch session in between meetings. The dog area is located in a closed-off part of the office so that those with allergies -- or those who just aren’t dog people -- can still work there. A dedicated elevator indicates it only stops at the dog area on the 25th floor.

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