Dogs can provide us with unconditional love and companionship, and nothing feels better than curling up together for a good night’s sleep.
Many people love having their dog sleep in the bedroom, but is it good to let your dog into the bed?
Potential Benefits of Sleeping with Your Dog
Dogs can be comforting and provide a sense of security, especially for those who feel lonely or afraid at night.
Interacting with pets can reduce stress and stress-related health issues, such as high blood pressure and chronic heart disease.
Playing and cuddling with your dog during the day can uplift your emotional state. These boosts in your mood can improve your overall mental health, which will probably have significant benefits for your sleep quality.
It depends on the dog and the person, but it appears that having a dog in your bed does not typically cause much sleep disturbance. When the dog is healthy and well-exercised, it will likely sleep through the night without moving around too much.
Potential Risks of Sleeping with Your Dog
Crowding your dog into the bed with you can be a problem if they are restless, snore loudly, or drool a lot.
While their warmth may be comforting on cold winter nights, this might also lead to discomfort, sweating, and overheating.
They can also bring allergens into your bed, which would be very bothersome and potentially dangerous. Even if you are not allergic to dogs, you might be irritated by the dust, pollen, and other contaminants that they carry on their fur.
They might also carry harmful bacteria, parasites, fleas, or ticks which could be dangerous if they transfer to you. There is also a risk of vomiting and diarrhea when a dog is sick, so it becomes even more important to keep them off your bed.
There may also be risks of injury. They could accidentally scratch you, kick you, or even bite you if they are suddenly startled or frightened.
Dogs should not share a bed with pregnant women, infants, or small children for these reasons.
If Your Dog Does Sleep In Bed With You…
Each dog is different, and each person is different. Some situations will be more ideal than others.
If you decide to share your bed with your pets, there are a few things you can do to make it as safe and pleasant as possible.
Take them for a walk every day to tire them out.
Be consistent about what behaviors you will or won’t allow. Have them sleep on their bed or in another room if they do not meet your standards.
Change your sheets more often to keep away any allergens.
Make sure they are checked by a vet regularly and properly vaccinated.
If a problem occurs, find a better place for them to sleep.
