More than half of European workers would consider changing jobs for a pet-friendly workplace 

More than half of European employees would consider changing jobs if it meant being able to bring their pet to work, according to new research from Mars.  

The Pet-Friendly Advantage 2026 Workplace Report, which surveyed more than 16,000 employees across 16 European countries, found that 55 per cent of workers would consider switching employers if pets were allowed in the workplace. 

The findings suggest pet-friendly policies are becoming a more significant workplace benefit, particularly among younger workers, as employers look for new ways to improve employee experience and encourage office attendance. 

The report found that 37 per cent of employees would prioritise pet-friendly policies over traditional workplace perks such as employee discounts, cycle-to-work schemes, free snacks and social events. More than a third (35 per cent) also ranked pet-friendly policies ahead of enhanced benefits including private healthcare and parental leave. 

Among younger workers, demand was even stronger. More than four in 10 (41 per cent) employees aged 18 to 24 said they actively look for pet-friendly policies when searching for a new role, compared with 24 per cent of workers aged over 55. 

Half (50 per cent) of respondents said employers with pet-friendly policies appear more supportive of employees returning to office-based working, while one-third (33 per cent) said a formal pets-at-work policy demonstrates that an organisation cares about employee wellbeing. 

Workplace atmosphere also emerged as a key benefit, with 81 per cent of employees saying pets help create a more relaxed working environment. 

Meanwhile, 71 per cent of respondents who said they would be more likely to own a pet if their employer offered supportive policies also said they would consider changing jobs to work somewhere that allowed pets. 

The report comes as interest in pet-friendly employers continues to grow. Data from Indeed cited in the research found that UK job adverts mentioning “dog friendly” have increased 14-fold since 2019. 

However, despite growing demand, many employers may be missing an opportunity to differentiate themselves during recruitment. 

More than half (55 per cent) of employees said they do not know where to find information about pet-friendly workplace policies when looking for a job, while one-third (33 per cent) said their employer has pet-friendly policies but does not advertise them in job listings. 

Paolo Rigamonti, Regional President of Mars Pet Nutrition Europe, said: “Bring Your Dog to Work Day is a fantastic celebration, and at Mars we’ve long understood the positive impact pets can have in the workplace. 

“Now, new data from our Pet-Friendly Advantage Report makes the case even clearer: pet-friendly workplaces support wellbeing, strengthen culture and are increasingly important for attracting and retaining talent. Every day should be Bring Your Dog to Work Day.” 

Matt Burney, Senior Strategic Advisor at Indeed, added: “Pet-friendly offices reflect growing expectations around flexibility and work-life balance. 

“As employees juggle responsibilities at home and at work, organisations that create workplaces people want to be part of often see stronger retention and morale. Allowing pets in the workplace can be a simple but effective way to enhance the employee experience.” 

The research comes as UK employers continue to rethink what constitutes a meaningful workplace benefit. As return-to-office strategies mature, organisations are increasingly exploring how workplace design, culture and policies can support employee wellbeing, strengthen engagement and make office-based working more attractive.