Your Bed or Theirs?
What is the best sleeping arrangement for your pup?
As we become more knowledgeable about what’s best for our furry friends, it makes sense that as dog owner’s we become concerned with behaviors that may be seen as typical, but could actually affect our pets and/or ourselves. When it comes to where our pets sleep, nearly all pet owners have a different opinion and way of handling bed time with their furry babies.
Research has shown that about half of all pet owners allow their pets to sleep with them, or at least in their bedroom. There is a multitude of reasons to advocate for all sleeping arrangements, whether it’s with you in bed, in their own bed in the same room, in their own room, or in a crate. This article was curated with all of these reasons in mind, and aims to educate about the possible consequences (positive and negative) associated with each sleeping arrangement.
Sleeping Arrangements
your bed
Many pet owners and experts have opposing opinions about co-sleeping, both of which can be valid. Ultimately, what research has shown is that deciding if co-sleeping is a good idea (or not) depends entirely on each individual dog. Co-sleeping should be considered on a dog-by-dog basis; every dog has their own individual personality, behaviors, reactions, and needs that will affect whether or not it is an appropriate option as a sleeping arrangement.
The Pros:
Some experts believe that the pros of co-sleeping can far outweigh the cons; however this is all dependent on you and your dogs needs! Many studies have shown that co-sleeping can be beneficial for your (and your dogs) mental health. Just like sleeping with a partner, it can create feelings of safety, comfort, and trust which ultimately help us to get better rest.
Time spent sleeping with your pup, is still quality time spent! Even in our sleep, the togetherness further builds the bond between you and your pup. Overtime this can help your dog feel less anxious and more trusting.
Another pro that many dog-owners are very aware of, is that your dog can help you be alerted to an intruder or unexpected guest. Dogs are naturally much lighter sleepers than us. As pet owners, it can help us feel safe by having a built-in alarm while we sleep.
Some researchers have hypothesized that letting your pets sleep in your bed can actually increase your immunity by exposing you to a variety of bacteria and microorganisms they pick up throughout their days. To some, this sounds like a nightmare and should be on the “cons” list, however the immunity boost can help us better fight or prevent various illnesses.
Some research has shown that co-sleeping with your dog can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), increase oxytocin (the love hormone), lower your blood pressure, and overall reduce your feelings of stress and anxiety.
The Cons:
One possible consequence of co-sleeping is that it exacerbates allergies in humans, a pet-free bed can give you some much needed relief.
While research on sleep quality while co-sleeping is mixed in conclusions, some studies have shown that pet owners who co-sleep endure more sleep disturbances and wakings through the night than those who don’t co-sleep with their pups. This may be because our differences in sleep/wake cycles, ours are longer and less frequent while theirs are shorter and more frequent. Dogs are also much lighter sleepers than humans, they may disturb you if they hear sounds throughout the night.
Some studies have shown that in some dogs, co-sleeping can lead to separation anxiety and behavioral issues. Certain research has suggested that this may be because of the attachments formed when co-sleeping are extremely strong and for some dogs creates anxiety. This is likely because some dogs have a harder time self-soothing and coping with your absence than others.
Other behavioral issues such as resource guarding and territorialism can also be a negative consequence of co-sleeping. Some dogs may view the bed (and you in the bed especially) as a resource such as food and water, leading them to behave aggressively or reactively to other dogs or people.
Some believe that these behavioral issues are caused by a struggle in dominance between you and your pup. However, this belief has been largely refuted and is considered inaccurate by most pet care experts.
For older and/or arthritic dogs, your bed may not be the most ergonomic or supportive choice for your dog’s aching body and joints. While some mattresses may be okay, others such as extremely soft and plush mattresses, may not be. Also, the height of your bed can also be a factor in the health of your dog’s joints, jumping up onto a high bed can have negative physical effects.
This can be remedied by considering your dog’s physical needs when buying a mattress. For smaller dogs, lifting them onto the bed is best, for bigger dogs a ramp or set of steps to get onto the bed may be the best option if you choose to co-sleep.
their bed
The Pros:
For those of whom do not want their pup to sleep in their bed, but do not want to crate them either, having their own bed in your room or in their special spot in the house can be an amazing compromise.
Your pup will always have a safe space to call their own. Knowing that they have their personal place to be cozy and go to sleep can help nurture a sense of trust and safety within themselves.
You can avoid any dog hair, dander, as well as bacteria and allergens brought to you by your pup while you are asleep or resting. This can help you maintain better respiratory health which can be especially important for those who have allergies or trouble breathing.
Can help you have a personal sense of space and control in your most private space.
Your sleep is less likely to be disrupted from your pup moving, snoring, or being restless.
The Cons:
For some dogs, such as senior dogs or dogs with physical or medical disabilities, a regular dog bed may not be supportive enough for their bodies to get the rest they need. Consider buying a high quality dog bed, or even a small mattress for your dog so they can have a restful and restorative night’s sleep as well.
Some dogs may get lonely. While this is something that can fade with time and trust, sometimes our pups need our physical or verbal attention to feel safe and loved. Consider checking on your pup during the night if you feel they may be nervous or lonely by themselves.
crate
The Pros:
For some dogs, crate training can help your dog rest and relax. Many dogs find solace in enclosed spaces that help them feel protected and possibly less anxious.
If your dog is a wanderer at night, and you are worried that they may get into trouble while your asleep, crate training can give you the peace of mind that they are safe and sound in their crate.
If your dog is older and experiences arthritis, incontinence, and/or confusion, sleeping in the crate can be helpful for both you and them. It eliminates the possibility of finding potty accidents around the house or your pup getting confused in the dark empty feeling house.
If your dog is a puppy, crate training is highly recommended even if you aren’t planning on them sleeping in the crate long-term. It helps to teach them manners, patience, and prepares them for when they will need to be crated for trips, vet visits, etc. It also eliminates the possibility of finding potty accidents around the house in the morning.
The Cons:
While some dogs find solace in small enclosed spaces, other dogs find it to be stressful and scary. Some dogs will whine, cry, bark, scratch, and attempt to escape in any way possible due to the claustrophobic feeling it can sometimes cause.
Some dogs may feel lonely and sad in their crate, which could potentially hurt their trust in you as their owner.
Conclusion
As you have read, there are many advantages and disadvantages to all of the possible sleeping arrangements with your pup. Some successfully co-sleep with their pets while others do better in separate sleeping quarters. It is ultimately up to you to decide what is best for yourself and your dog/s.
If you are someone who deals with health issues, sleep dysfunction, or allergies it may be best for your furry friend to sleep in their own space away from you! If you are worried your pup may be becoming territorial or possessive of you, your home, or your bed, it may also be best for them to sleep in their own bed and/or crate in order to foster a safer and happier environment for everyone in the household.
There is no definitive right or wrong when it comes to where your pup should sleep. If you prefer your pup in bed snuggled up with you, and it boosts the bond and trust between you and your furry friend, then that is perfectly okay!
Written By: Jessica L Hays
DTA Social Media, Community Outreach, Lead Dog Walker
references
Arford, Kaitlyn. “Crate Training Benefits: Why a Crate Is Great for You and Your Dog.” American Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, 8 July 2024, www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-crate-training-is-great-for-your-dog/#:~:text=Crates%20are%20useful%20training%20tools,to%20soil%20their%20sleeping%20quarters.
Gibeault, Stephanie. “Should I Let My Dog Sleep with Me?” American Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, 3 Oct. 2024, www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/shouldmydogsleepwithme/#:~:text=Let%20your%20dog%20sleep%20in%20your%20bed%20%E2%80%9Cby%20invitation%20only,can%20come%20on%20the%20bed.&text=Small%20breeds%20or%20senior%20dogs,right%20next%20to%20you%20instead.
Summer, Jay, and Dr. Dustin Cotliar. “Sleeping with Pets.” Sleep Foundation, 25 Mar. 2024, www.sleepfoundation.org/animals-and-sleep/sleeping-with-pets.
Vital Essentials. “Pros and Cons of Your Dog Sleeping in Your Bed.” Vital Essentials, 2023, www.vitalessentials.com/raw-guide/to-sleep-or-not-to-sleep-the-pros-and-cons-of-allowing-your-dog-to-sleep-in-your-bed.
Williams, Krista, et al. “Should My Dog Sleep in My Bed?” VCA Hospitals, vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/should-my-dog-sleep-in-my-bed. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024.
