5 min read • Wyatt West, Staff Writer & Outdoor Fiend, Timberdog
When my Angus was a puppy, I vowed to never let him on any of the human furniture. I thought this would be a mark of discipline; and, besides, I have some family members who are allergic to pets, and others who find it "dirty" to share furniture with animals. Well, one look at Angus's cute face at nighttime, and I thought, What the heck, he can sleep at the foot of the bed -- but not climb up on any other furniture!
Not even a day later, he was on everything -- sofa, armchairs, and even plopped beside me on a dining chair, as I liked to write blog posts at the kitchen table. Luckily, Angus isn't much of a shedder and has no doggy odor, so everyone was happy.
Let’s face it: few things are as comforting as the idea of curling up in bed with your furry best friend. But before you open the bedroom door to your canine companion, let’s explore if this is right for you. This comprehensive look will help you make an informed decision that's best for both you and your four-legged buddy.
The Pros of Bed-Sharing
1. Strengthening the Bond
Sharing your bed with your dog can strengthen the bond between you. Dogs are pack animals by nature, and sleeping close to their pack leader (you) provides them with a sense of security and belonging. This can lead to a more harmonious relationship, as the physical closeness reinforces your connection. According to a study by the Mayo Clinic, many pet owners feel more comforted by their pet's presence in bed, which can also enhance the overall emotional bond between the two of you.
2. Warmth and Comfort
Dogs are natural heaters, and on chilly nights, having your dog snuggle up can provide extra warmth. This is especially beneficial if you live in a cooler climate or are prone to getting cold at night, as their body temperature is naturally higher than that of humans, typically around 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmth provided by your dog can help you save on heating costs, Their rhythmic breathing and soft snores can also be surprisingly soothing, much like a white noise machine, helping some people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
3. Reduced Anxiety
For both you and your dog, sleeping together can reduce anxiety. Your dog feels safer with you, and you might find their presence calming, especially if you suffer from insomnia or anxiety. Studies have shown that physical contact with pets can lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and increase the production of oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and affection. This mutual benefit can lead to more restful sleep and a greater sense of well-being for both parties.
4. Improved Mental Health
The emotional support provided by a dog can significantly impact your mental health. Dogs offer unconditional love and companionship, which can be especially comforting during difficult times. The sense of security and affection they provide can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression. In fact, research from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) indicates that pet ownership can lead to improved mental health and a reduction in feelings of isolation.
The Cons of Bed-Sharing
1. Sleep Disruptions
On the flip side, dogs can be restless sleepers. They might move around, snore, or even kick you during the night. This can lead to disrupted sleep, leaving you tired and cranky in the morning. According to a study by the Mayo Clinic, 20% of pet owners reported that their pets disrupted their sleep in some way. While some dogs may sleep soundly through the night, others may exhibit restless behavior that can significantly impact your sleep quality.
2. Allergies and Hygiene
If you have allergies, sharing your bed with a dog can exacerbate them. Dogs carry allergens like pollen, dust, and dander, which can transfer to your bedding. Additionally, there’s the issue of dirt and potential fleas. Regular grooming and bathing can mitigate some of these issues, but it may not eliminate them entirely. For those with severe allergies, the presence of a dog in the bed can lead to increased symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and respiratory problems.
3. Territorial Behavior
Allowing your dog to sleep on the bed can sometimes lead to territorial behavior. They might start seeing the bed as their own, leading to dominance issues or aggression when others try to share the space. This can be particularly problematic in multi-pet households or if you share your bed with a partner. Dogs that become possessive of the bed may growl or snap when others approach, which can create tension and disrupt the household harmony. For this reason, it may be a good idea to get your dog his own bed, ideally with a dog bed pillow or bolster for additional support and comfort.
4. Space and Comfort
Depending on the size of your dog and your bed, sharing the space might not be comfortable for everyone. Large dogs can take up significant room, leaving you cramped and uncomfortable. This can lead to poor sleep posture and associated aches and pains. Even smaller dogs, if they tend to sprawl out, can encroach on your personal space, making it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
5. Impact on Sleep Hygiene
Good sleep hygiene is essential for restful sleep, and sharing your bed with a dog can sometimes interfere with this. For instance, dogs often have different sleep-wake cycles than humans and may wake up early, needing to go outside or wanting attention. This can interrupt your sleep cycle and lead to fragmented rest. Maintaining a consistent sleep routine is important, and having a dog in the bed may make it harder to stick to your preferred schedule.
Finding the Middle Ground
If you’re torn between cuddling up with your pup and maintaining a good night’s sleep, there are compromises. Consider setting up a cozy nook in your bedroom so your dog can be close without sharing your mattress. This allows your dog to feel secure and near you while preserving your personal sleep space. Many dogs are perfectly content with their own bed, especially if it’s placed next to yours.
Another option is to designate specific nights for bed-sharing, making it a special treat rather than a nightly routine. This can provide a balance between bonding with your dog and ensuring you get adequate rest. You might also consider investing in a larger bed to accommodate both you and your dog more comfortably.
Tips for Successful Bed-Sharing
If you decide to share your bed with your dog, there are several strategies to ensure a peaceful coexistence:
- Establish Boundaries: Train your dog to understand which areas of the bed are off-limits. This can prevent them from taking over the entire space.
- Routine Grooming: Regularly groom your dog to minimize the amount of shedding and allergens they bring into the bed. Bathing them frequently can also help keep them clean.
- Use Protective Bedding: Consider using washable mattress protectors and blankets to make cleaning easier and to protect your bedding from dirt and dander.
- Comfortable Sleep Environment: Ensure your dog has a comfortable sleep environment with soft bedding and appropriate temperature control. This can help them settle down more easily.
- Monitor Behavior: Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior. If they start showing signs of territorial aggression or if their presence disrupts your sleep significantly, it might be time to reevaluate the arrangement.
Making the Decision
Ultimately, the decision should be based on what works best for both you and your dog. Every dog-owner relationship is unique, and what brings comfort to one pair might not work for another. Consider your own sleep needs, your dog’s behavior, and any potential health concerns. If you’re still unsure, try different arrangements and observe how both you and your dog respond.
In summary, allowing your dog to sleep on the bed with you has both advantages and disadvantages. The key is to find a balance that ensures both you and your dog get the rest you need while maintaining a strong and healthy bond. By weighing the pros and cons and considering your individual circumstances, you can make an informed decision that benefits both you and your beloved pet.
Photo credit: Yogendra Singh