Labour court: dog no longer allowed in office

For six years, Lori the animal protection dog was allowed to accompany her owner to work – but now it’s over. The Düsseldorf Higher Labour Court has ruled that a contractual ban on animals also applies if it has been tacitly tolerated for a long time.

The plaintiff, an employee of a gaming arcade operator, had sought legal protection after she was prohibited from taking her dog with her. However, neither explicit permission nor a company practice could be established. The judges emphasised: Tolerance is not permission – the employer’s right of direction remains.

A settlement has now provided clarity: Lori is allowed to bring her dog to work until 31 May – after that, she will only be allowed to do so with explicit permission. Personal circumstances such as close ties or financial burden do not change the legal situation.

The decision emphasises: whether dogs are allowed in the workplace or not is at the discretion of the employer – the contractual provisions are decisive.