Should My Dog Sleep in My Bed With Me?
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Should My Dog Sleep in My Bed With Me?
Our dogs go with us everywhere. They follow us around the house, accompany us on family vacations, and are there for us in our times of need. However, there is one place you may not want your dog to be all the time – your bed.
There is no cut-and-dry answer as to whether or not you should allow your dog to sleep with you at night. Some people enjoy the extra warmth and comfort of having their furry friend sleep with them, while others find it a nuisance when their dog constantly gets up in the middle of the night. Deciding whether or not to let your dog sleep with you is ultimately a personal choice, but there are some considerations to make to help you guide your decision.
The Benefits of Sharing Your Bed With Your Dog
You and your dog may sleep better - Studies show that most people report a better night’s sleep when having their dog close by, as opposed to people who don’t. This is also reportedly true for pets, as they are used to sleeping in packs and can find comfort in being close to you. If your dog is generally anxious or becomes afraid during thunderstorms, sleeping next to you can help them get a better night’s sleep.
You may feel safer - If you have trouble falling asleep due to anxiety, it may help calm you to sleep next to your dog. Like a fluffy security alarm, they can alert you to suspicious noises or activity at night.
They make the best alarm clocks - There is no better way to wake up than the snuggle of your best friend in the morning. When they lick your face and get excited to see you first thing, it can instantly bring joy to your day.
The Drawbacks
If you’re a light sleeper, they may wake you - If your dog is an active dreamer or likes to readjust during the night, they may cause problems with your own sleep. If you’re a light sleeper, keeping your dog off the bed may be better.
Not all dogs like sleeping in the bed - Some dogs prefer more personal space or may get overheated when sleeping next to you if they have a thicker coat. In this case, trapping them in your room may cause them to get up and disturb you more often throughout the night.
They may track dirt and hair into your bed - Dogs don’t get bathed as often as we do, so they will naturally bring in more dirt to your bed than if it were just you. Allowing them to sleep in the bed may also make it okay for them to jump on the bed regardless of whether or not they’re clean, which can be problematic if they’ve just played in the mud or gotten into the trash. Because dogs track in dirt and hair, they should never sleep with you if you have an open wound or are recovering from an injury.
Choosing to let your dog sleep with you or in your bedroom is ultimately up to your and your dog’s personal preferences. It’s important to stay consistent, so they can learn a nighttime routine and sleep soundly through the night.
