Should your dog should be allowed to sleep in your bed? Vet expert weighs in

Daily Record

4 days ago

A vet has offered some much needed clarity on the subject of letting your dog in bed which can pose some issues
Dog owners are often divided when it comes to bedtime routines. Some find comfort in having their furry friend curled up next to them, while others prefer to keep their pets out of the bedroom.
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This can be due to concerns about boundaries, cleanliness, allergies, or interrupted sleep. Saying that, according to Silentnight, a massive 75 per cent of people surveyed said they snuggle up in their bed with their beloved pooch.
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And almost a quarter of them do this every single night despite the risk of a hairy duvet and losing space to their pet. However, a seasoned vet has shed some light on this matter.
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In an article for PetMD, a reliable source for veterinary advice and pet health information, Dr. Sandra Mitchell provided crucial guidance on whether it's sensible to allow your dog in bed.
She explained that there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, and the decision should be based on the dog's behaviour, breed, and the owner's individual needs and lifestyle.
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Sharing a bed with a dog can enhance the bond between owner and pet, providing comfort, warmth, and a sense of security. Many owners also find that having their dog nearby alleviates anxiety and helps establish a soothing bedtime routine.
However, dogs tend to be light sleepers and may frequently wake during the night, which could disturb their owner's rest if they too are a light sleeper, reports the Express.
Allergies can also worsen when dogs sleep in close proximity due to pet dander and allergens building up in bedding.
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The expert recommends pet owners ensure their dog is fully house trained, emotionally mature, and able to settle peacefully through the night before inviting them into the bed.
Establishing clear boundaries from the outset is crucial, and it's often easier to start with strict rules and relax them later than to try and change established habits.
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She also suggests that dogs should have their own safe and comfortable sleeping area, even if they are occasionally allowed on the bed.
This provides both the pet and owner with greater flexibility in the long run. If situations alter, such as the onset of allergies, a new partner moving in, or changes in a dog's health, transitions can be made much more smoothly.
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It's also vital to consider health risks. Dogs can carry intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks that cause illnesses in humans.
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Sleeping with your dog increases exposure to these parasites and vector-borne diseases, especially for very young, elderly, or immune compromised individuals.
That said, exposure to pets may also help build immunity in healthy individuals, according to the Sleep Foundation. To reduce risks, regularly groom your dog, use a mattress protector, and wash your bedding frequently.
By considering your dog's temperament, training, and health along with your own lifestyle and medical needs, you can make a decision that benefits both of you.