Should you let your dog sleep in your bed? The truth, according to pet behaviour experts
Here's what professional trainers and behaviourists have to say about this increasingly common practice.
The emotional benefits of sleeping with your dog
One of the strongest arguments in favour of co-sleeping with dogs is the emotional connection it fosters. According to experts, allowing a dog to sleep in bed can strengthen the bond between owner and pet, offering comfort and a sense of security for both.
Studies have also shown that dogs can help ease anxiety, alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and promote better sleep quality, particularly among women. A
study
conducted by researchers at Canisius College found that women who shared their bed with dogs reported feeling more secure and experienced fewer disturbances during the night compared to those who slept with cats or humans.
This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as the 'pet effect,' where close contact with a dog can trigger the release of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," which promotes relaxation and emotional well-being.
Understanding the risks: Behaviour, sleep quality, and hygiene
While the emotional benefits are significant, experts advise pet owners to carefully consider the potential downsides before making co-sleeping a habit.
Behavioural issues and lack of boundaries
Letting a dog into your bed may seem harmless, but it can lead to confusion if not handled with clear rules.
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Dogs prone to resource guarding or aggression might begin to see the bed as their territory. While it's not inherently wrong for dogs to sleep with their owners, it's critical that they understand it's a privilege, not a right. Dogs should only be allowed onto the bed by invitation and should be trained to get down when asked.
Inconsistent rules such as sometimes allowing bed access and other times not, can lead to anxiety or behavioural confusion, especially in younger or less confident dogs.
Disrupted sleep for humans
Even the most well-behaved dogs can impact sleep quality. Dogs may shift positions, snore, or wake up earlier than their owners, leading to fragmented sleep. Some pet owners report that while the emotional comfort is real, they ultimately sleep better when their dog sleeps in a separate bed or crate nearby.
Hygiene concerns
Hygiene is another valid concern. Even clean, well-groomed dogs carry dander, outdoor dirt, and sometimes parasites.
For individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems, it may be safer to keep dogs out of the bed altogether. Regular grooming and vet check-ups can mitigate these risks, but they cannot eliminate them entirely.
What the experts recommend: Tailoring sleep choices to you and your dog
Trainers agree that whether or not to let your dog sleep in your bed is a personal decision, but one that should be made with consistency and awareness. If your dog is calm, obedient, and free from behavioural issues, sharing your bed can be a rewarding and comforting experience.
However, for dogs with behavioural challenges or owners with health conditions, it may be best to establish boundaries early on. This might include placing a dog bed or crate in the same room, offering closeness without compromising sleep quality or control.
For puppies or newly adopted dogs, it's often recommended to start with crate training or a designated sleeping area. This allows the dog to feel safe while learning routines and limits and gives owners the flexibility to later allow bed access if desired.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. As long as your dog is well-trained, healthy, and respectful of boundaries, letting your dog sleep in your bed is perfectly fine and may even improve your well-being. However, if sleep disruptions, allergy symptoms, or behavioural issues arise, reconsidering your setup is the responsible choice.
Whether your dog curls up beside you or in their own bed nearby, what matters most is a safe, consistent routine that supports the health and happiness of both pet and owner.
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