Why Your Dog Should Sleep in Bed with You – Or No

Whether or not to let your dog sleep in bed with you is a topic that often divides pet owners.

Some find that having their dog curled up next to them provides comfort, while others worry about disruptions to sleep or potential hygiene concerns.

The decision to let your dog share your bed ultimately comes down to personal preference, health considerations, and what works best for both you and your furry friend.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, potential drawbacks, and alternatives to co-sleeping with your dog to help you make an informed decision.

The Benefits of Letting Your Dog Sleep in Bed

Letting your dog sleep in bed with you can offer a range of benefits that go beyond just comfort.

Here’s how:

Strengthens emotional bond

Allowing your dog to sleep in bed with you can strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Dogs are social animals that thrive on companionship, and co-sleeping is one way to nurture that connection.

According to a study published in Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin, close proximity with pets can increase levels of oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” in both humans and animals.

This hormone promotes feelings of closeness and affection, which can help you feel more emotionally connected to your dog.

Provides comfort and security

Sleeping with your dog can provide a sense of security and calm.

Many pet owners feel safer with their dogs nearby, as dogs have heightened senses and may alert you to any unusual sounds or movements during the night.

This can be especially beneficial for those living alone or in a new environment, as the presence of a pet can offer reassurance and peace of mind.

Improves sleep quality

While it may seem counterintuitive, some studies suggest that having a dog in bed can improve sleep quality.

The research found that people who allowed their pets to sleep in the same room reported better sleep quality, as they felt more relaxed and less anxious.

Of course, this largely depends on the dog’s sleeping habits and personality; a calm, low-energy dog is more likely to contribute positively to sleep than one that frequently moves or fidgets.

Warmth and physical comfort

Dogs provide natural warmth, making them great cuddle partners on cold nights.

If you’re someone who loves a cozy, warm bed, having your dog nearby can help keep you warm without the need for extra blankets.

This warmth can be especially comforting for people with joint pain or arthritis, as the heat may help alleviate discomfort.

Fosters routine and stability

Dogs thrive on routine, and having a consistent bedtime can help establish a stable routine for both you and your pet.

A regular sleep schedule, which includes your dog’s bedtime, may encourage better habits and reduce anxiety in dogs that may otherwise become restless or anxious at night.

The Drawbacks of Letting Your Dog Sleep in Bed

While there are many benefits to letting your dog sleep in bed with you, there are also some drawbacks to consider.

Here’s a closer look at the potential downsides:

Disruption of sleep patterns

While some people find that their dog’s presence improves sleep, others experience the opposite.

Dogs tend to be more active sleepers, occasionally moving, scratching, or even barking in their sleep.

This can disrupt your sleep cycle, particularly if you are a light sleeper.

A study by The Sleep Foundation showed that sharing a bed with a pet can lead to more frequent awakenings and decreased overall sleep quality for some people.

Health risks and hygiene concerns

Sleeping with your dog can also pose certain health risks.

Dogs spend time outdoors, where they can pick up dirt, pollen, and even parasites like fleas or ticks, which they may then bring into your bed.

This can be a concern for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems.

Regular grooming and flea prevention can reduce these risks, but for those highly sensitive to allergens, co-sleeping with a pet may still be problematic.

Impact on relationships

Allowing a dog to share the bed can impact relationships, particularly if one partner is not as keen on the idea.

If you and your partner have different views on co-sleeping with a pet, it could lead to tension or even disrupted sleep for one person.

Communication and compromise are key here; if you and your partner cannot agree on allowing the dog in bed, consider alternative sleeping arrangements for your pet.

Safety considerations for dogs

Co-sleeping with a dog can sometimes pose safety risks, especially for smaller dogs.

They may get trapped under the covers, or a person may accidentally roll over them.

Additionally, if your dog has mobility issues, getting on and off the bed could be challenging.

For dogs prone to joint problems, arthritis, or other mobility issues, a comfortable dog bed on the floor might be a safer option.

Alternatives to Co-Sleeping

If you decide that sharing your bed with your dog isn’t the best option, there are still several ways to keep your furry friend close without compromising your sleep or health.

Here are some alternatives:

Dog bed next to your bed

Place a comfortable dog bed right beside your own.

This allows your dog to be close to you while avoiding potential sleep disruptions or hygiene issues that come with sharing the same space.

Your dog can still feel included in your nighttime routine without being in your bed.

Crate training

If your dog feels safe in a crate, consider setting one up in your bedroom.

This can provide a cozy, secure sleeping area for your dog, especially for younger dogs or puppies who might be more active at night.

Crates can help keep them from wandering around while you sleep.

Dog-specific blanket on the bed

If you’d like your dog to join you occasionally, think about designating a separate blanket on your bed just for them.

This way, your dog can snuggle up with you without spreading fur, dirt, or allergens throughout your bedding.

Elevated dog beds

Another option is to use an elevated dog bed, which allows your dog to stay at the same level as your bed but on their own surface.

This setup gives you both closeness and separation, allowing your dog to feel connected while still having their own space.

Final Thoughts

Deciding whether or not to let your dog sleep in bed with you is a personal choice.

For many, the benefits of closeness, warmth, and emotional bonding outweigh the potential downsides.

However, for others, the impact on sleep quality, hygiene, and relationships may make it a less appealing option.

By weighing the pros and cons and considering alternatives, you can create a sleep routine that works well for both you and your furry friend.