Should You Share Your Bed With Your Dog? Science Explains the Surprising Pros and Cons
Nighttime cuddles with a furry friend foster calm and closeness, yet some downsides await.
Should You Sleep With Your Dog? What Science Says About Sharing Your Bed With Your Canine Companion
For pet owners, snuggling up with a beloved dog at bedtime can feel perfectly natural—and science increasingly reveals that this nightly ritual may be more beneficial than you think. From improved sleep quality to comfort and emotional support, research is shedding light on how sleeping with a dog in your bed affects your physical and mental well-being. There are, however, some caveats to consider, making the subject fascinating and surprisingly nuanced.
How Common Is It to Share a Bed With Your Dog?
For millions of dog owners, letting their pup join them in bed is the norm. According to multiple surveys:
- More than half of pet owners allow their dogs to sleep with them at night, while approximately 45% of dog owners say their dog sleeps in the same bed with them.
- Other dog owners designate a separate dog bed or crate in the bedroom, with 20% opting for a crate and 17% for a dog bed.
- The trend is particularly pronounced among women, with a study by Canisius College finding that 55% of adult women share their beds with at least one dog, compared to just 31% with a cat.
The prevalence of this practice is a testament to how deeply integrated companion animals have become in our lives—and underscores the need to understand its effects.
Key Benefits of Sleeping With Your Dog
Why do so many people welcome their dogs into their beds? Scientific research has identified several advantages, both psychological and physiological:
1. Enhanced Sleep Quality
Contrary to the old worry that dogs disrupt rest, several studies indicate that sharing your sleep space with a dog may actually improve your sleep quality. A Mayo Clinic study found that many of the dog owners surveyed either experienced no disruption or actually slept better with their pet nearby. Key findings:
- 41% of surveyed owners said their pets did not disrupt their sleep or even enhanced it, providing warmth and relaxation.
- Women, in particular, reported that they felt more rested and woke less frequently through the night when their dog was their bed partner.
- Dog owners also tend to go to bed earlier and adhere to stricter sleep schedules compared to cat owners or those without pets.
2. Feelings of Comfort and Security
Companion animals like dogs provide strong feelings of comfort, which can help reduce stress and anxiety before sleep. The Canisius College research found that:
- People felt safer and more secure with their dog in bed—an effect stronger than when sharing with a cat or even a human partner.
- This sense of security and coziness is particularly pronounced among women, many of whom said it made them feel less lonely and more at ease at bedtime.
3. Strengthened Bond Between Owner and Pet
Sleep may account for a third of your life, so it’s no surprise that spending nighttime together deepens the emotional connection between owner and pet. For those who are away from their dogs during the day, letting them in the bedroom at night feels like an easy way to maximize quality time—and both humans and dogs often look forward to it.
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4. Emotional and Physical Health Boosts
The benefits of a close relationship with a dog extend beyond sleep itself. Experts note:
- Petting or snuggling a dog can lower blood pressure and heart rate, making it easier to relax and drift off.
- People with dogs tend to feel a greater sense of well-being and are less likely to report loneliness or depression.
- The presence of a dog may also make owners more aware of noises or changes in the household, further enhancing feelings of safety.
5. Dogs Are More Restful Than Other Partners
Surprisingly, studies indicate that sleeping with a dog is often less disruptive than sleeping with a human partner or a cat:
- Dogs tend to move less during the night and comply better with owners’ sleep schedules.
- Cats are typically more nocturnal and reported as equally or more disruptive to sleep as human partners, sometimes waking owners at odd hours.
Potential Downsides: Risks and Disturbances
While there are clear benefits, experts also acknowledge certain drawbacks and risks associated with inviting your dog under the covers.
1. Sleep Disruption
Not every pet is a peaceful sleeper—some may snore, jostle, or even claim more than their fair share of the bed. Potential issues include:
- Dogs getting up to change position, scratching, or licking during the night, which can wake their owners.
- Heavier or larger breeds may unintentionally crowd or disturb sleep, especially for light sleepers.
However, research suggests that, on average, dogs are perceived as less disruptive than other bed partners.
2. Allergies and Asthma
If you or someone in your household is allergic to pet dander, allowing your dog to sleep in your bed can exaggerate allergy symptoms or cause asthma flare-ups. Doctors generally advise keeping pets out of the bedroom for those with severe allergies.
3. Hygiene and Disease Transmission
While the risks are generally low among healthy pets and humans, some experts warn that sharing a bed can slightly increase the risk of zoonotic diseases—illnesses that can pass from animals to humans. Notable considerations include:
- Zoonotic infections such as certain parasites, mange, or bacteria can be passed through close contact.
- Good hygiene practices, including regular vet visits, vaccinations, and flea or tick control, help minimize these risks.
4. Impact on Relationships
Another factor to bear in mind: including a dog in the bed may affect intimacy or the quality of a couple’s relationship, especially if only one partner welcomes the dog or if the pet causes disturbances during the night.
What Factors Influence Whether Sleeping With a Dog Is Beneficial?
The effects of sleeping with a dog depend on several variables:
- Your health: People with allergies, weakened immune systems, or sleep disorders may be more sensitive to negative impacts.
- Your dog’s temperament and health: Calm, well-trained dogs are less likely to disrupt sleep than energetic or anxious ones. Puppies or dogs with health issues may wake during the night more frequently.
- Your bed and sleeping arrangements: Sharing a queen or king-size bed reduces crowding and positional struggles, making it easier to coexist without interruptions.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, some people simply sleep better alone—while for others, sharing space is a comfort they wouldn’t want to do without.
What Do the Experts Recommend?
Veterinarians and sleep specialists generally agree that—provided you are healthy and your dog is well-cared for—it’s safe to let your dog sleep in your bedroom or even in your bed. However, they provide a few sensible guidelines for a successful co-sleeping arrangement:
- Make sure your pet is healthy, up-to-date on shots, and protected against fleas and ticks.
- If you notice allergies, see a medical professional and keep pets out of your sleeping area if needed.
- Maintain good sleep hygiene—establish consistent bedtime routines for both yourself and your dog.
- Ensure your dog has an option to leave the bed or room if they become restless during the night.
- Wash bedding regularly and keep both your and your dog’s sleeping areas clean.
Dogs vs. Cats vs. Human Partners: How Do They Compare?
| Sleeping Partner | Quality of Sleep (Reported) | Security & Comfort | Likelihood of Disruption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog | High | Strong | Low |
| Cat | Low–Moderate | Moderate | Moderate–High |
| Human partner | Moderate | Moderate–Strong | Moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe for children to sleep with the family dog?
Generally, yes—provided the dog is healthy, well-behaved, and comfortable around children. However, for younger kids or larger, energetic breeds, it’s wise to monitor interactions to avoid accidental injury or sleep interruption.
Can sleeping with a dog cause health issues?
For most healthy adults, risks are minimal, especially if the dog is regularly groomed, vaccinated, and treated for parasites. Those with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems should exercise extra caution and consult a healthcare professional.
Do dogs like sleeping with their owners?
Yes! Dogs are social animals by nature. Most dogs find great comfort sleeping near their pack—whether canine or human.
How do I stop my dog from taking over the bed?
Set clear boundaries from the start by training your dog to use only a specific area or by providing a separate bed in your room. Consistency is key.
Is it better to let my dog sleep in the same room than in the bed?
Even if your dog doesn’t sleep in the bed, simply having them in the room can offer many of the same psychological benefits—including improved feelings of safety and relaxation—without as much risk of sleep disturbance or hygiene concerns.
Top Tips for Sharing Your Bed With Your Dog
- Make sure bedding is washed frequently.
- Keep your dog groomed and check for fleas/ticks regularly.
- Use a larger bed if you have a medium or large breed dog.
- Maintain consistent bedtimes for you and your dog.
- If problems arise, provide your dog with a cozy bed of their own nearby.
The Takeaway: Should You Share Your Bed With Your Dog?
Ultimately, science suggests that for many people, sharing a bed with a dog brings comfort, security, and better sleep. However, factors such as allergies, the dog’s temperament, and personal preference will play a big role in your experience. If you love having your canine companion close at night—and you both sleep well together—there’s little reason not to enjoy this cherished nightly ritual.
References
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/study-sleeping-with-pets-may-be-beneficial/
- https://cuddleclones.com/blogs/all/new-research-shows-that-women-sleep-better-sharing-a-bed-with-their-dog
- https://www.countryliving.com/uk/wildlife/pets/a28975283/sleeping-dog-in-room-improve-health/
- https://www.countryliving.com/uk/wellbeing/a25329151/sleeping-with-your-dog-benefits/
- https://www.expressnews.com/lifestyle/article/Animals-Matter-Do-your-pets-sleep-in-the-bed-17405613.php
- https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/a19606634/sharing-bed-with-dog-study/
- https://northcountrynow.com/premium/theconversation/stories/could-sharing-a-bedroom-with-your-pets-be-keeping-you-from-getting-a-good-nights-sleep,321337
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