Is It Okay To Let Your Dog Sleep In Your Bed?
While some people might be all for it, others are strongly against having a dog sleeping in their bed. So is it actually ok to let your dog sleep in your bed? The real answer is it depends.
Is it okay to let your dog sleep in your bed?
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Why Might Some People Let Their Dogs Sleep In Their Bed
There are a number of reasons why some people might let their dogs sleep in their bed. After all, 65% of Australians sleep in the same bed as their dogs (source).
Firstly, many people find comfort and companionship in having their dog sleep in their bed. Having your dog next to you throughout the night can enhance the bond between you and your pet.
Letting your dog sleep next to you in bed can enhance the bond between you and your pet.
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Having a dog snuggled up with you can provide extra warmth during colder nights. Not only will you feel warmer, so will your dog. If you have small or short-haired breeds or dogs that are afraid of the cold, you might consider letting your dog sleep in the same bed as you.
Some people might feel safer if they have their dogs next to them in bed. They can alert you to any potential dangers or disturbances throughout the night that you wouldn’t notice yourself.
Why Some People Would Never Let Their Dog Sleep In Their Bed
There are a lot of reasons why people don’t want to have their dogs in their beds, and allergies are one of the main concerns. If you have allergies, sharing your bed with a dog can make your symptoms worse, as dogs can carry allergens in their fur.
Having a dog in your bed may also disrupt your sleep. Dogs, like most animals, move around, snore, or wake up during the night, potentially disrupting your sleep. Furthermore, some dogs might overreact when startled even if they’re not aggressive.
If you roll over in bed and accidentally startle your pet, he might unintentionally bite you even if he did not intend to. But an unintentional bite hurts just as much as an intentional one.
Secondly, dogs can bring dirt and other contaminants into your bed, which may not be ideal for those who prioritize cleanliness.
Some people don’t like having their dogs in their bed as they can bring dirt and other contaminants into the bed.
Another reason why some people might not let their dog sleep in their bed is due to behavioral issues. Dogs know that they are not the boss of the family, and part of it relies on the fact that people tower above dogs. When lying down on the bed, a dog and their owner are on the same level, which may signal that they are equal in status, potentially causing behavioral issues if you are not consistent with training.
Lastly, larger dogs can take up a significant portion of the bed, leaving less room for you to sleep comfortably.
Things To Consider Before Letting Your Dog Sleep In Your Bed
If you are considering letting your dog sleep in your bed, here are some things you should consider before doing so.
- Allergies: If you or any family members have allergies, consider whether having a dog in the bed might make their symptoms worse. Dogs can carry allergens like pollen and dust in their fur.
- Size and Space: Take into account the size of your dog and the size of your bed. Larger dogs may take up a significant portion of the bed, leaving less space for you to sleep comfortably.
- Cleanliness: Dogs can bring dirt, outdoor contaminants, and even parasites like fleas into your bed. Regular grooming and pest control measures are essential. Make sure to regularly bathe and groom your dog to maintain their cleanliness.
- Behavior: Consider your dog’s behavior. Are they well-behaved and obedient? Dogs with behavioral issues may not be suitable bedmates. If you do decide to let your dog in your bed, establish clear rules and boundaries for their behavior in bed.
- Sleep Disruption: Dogs can move, snore, or wake up during the night, potentially disrupting your sleep. Think about how this might affect your rest.
- Bedding Protection: Invest in bedding protection, like a dog-friendly cover or blanket, to keep your bed clean and odor-free.
- Dog’s Age and Health: Older dogs or those with certain health issues such as arthritis may have trouble getting on and off the bed and soft beds do not support aging joints well.
- Wet Bed sheets: Is the dog well potty-trained? Also weak or aged bladders leak when the dog lies down. You can solve this by placing pee pads on the bed to keep the sheets dry as long as your dog doesn’t wiggle off of them.
Ultimately, the decision to let your dog sleep in your bed should align with your lifestyle, preferences, and the well-being of both you and your dog. If you’re unsure, consult with a veterinarian or dog trainer for guidance on what’s best for your specific situation.
