There are a lot of studies about humans and bedtime and our animal companions. Overall, including dogs and cats, it looks like about 56% of American adults let their pets in their beds at night. That number goes upward of 76% if you look at just dogs and if you take into account the size of the dog. And there are definitely pros and cons so should you let your dog sleep in your bed? Let’s take a look.
Cons of letting your dog sleep in your bed
- As we all probably know from direct experience, letting your dog sleep in your bed can definitely create sleep disturbance. Sometimes they just won’t settle. Or they’ll get down and up so many times during the night that you’re not sleeping straight through any one hour. This can get very tiring. Sleep deprivation is no joke.
- Dirt and germs. If your dog is spending a lot of time outside, you don’t really know what they’re bringing into bed with them at night. Being extra vigilant about cleanliness and making sure they’re not bringing in fleas and ticks is a must if you want them in bed with you.
- And finally, if you have sleep apnea or suffer from any allergies, it might be best to train your dog to crate sleep. (And we’ve shared lots of tips on crate training your dog.)
Now let’s get on with the more fun stuff…
Pros of letting your dog sleep in your bed
Comfort & Warmth
There are studies that show having your dog near you settles your nervous system, lowers your blood pressure, and generally decreases stress. Having your dog nearby also helps with depression and anxiety – two things that can prevent good sleep. Overall, having your dog in bed could actually help you to sleep better if they are able to be quiet and still for most of the night with you.
They also, of course, create warmth. During the cold nights of winter, there’s nothing quite like that furry little body to help keep the heating bills down. ((ha))
Safety
For single humans especially, sleeping with a dog can increase your sense of safety. You know that your dog will alert you to anything wrong or of any possible danger in your space.
Bonding
If you start co-sleeping with your dog as a puppy, this will definitely increase the intensity of your bond. And not just on the dog’s part. Cuddling with your dog releases oxytocin in your brain – just like when you hug a human. This is the hormone that creates a sense of love and well-being. It’s the connection hormone.
With all the studies on the positives that dogs bring into our lives, having them in bed with you really seems to be the winner. Again, as long as you don’t have a medical condition that would worsen with them in such close proximity.
And there’s no need to feel guilty about not letting them in your bed. There are so many bed options out there for dogs now and they’ll be perfectly content and comfortable.