Should My Dog Sleep On The Bed?
There are many pro’s and con’s as to whether dogs should share the bed with us. Many people enjoy the comfort of having a pet on the bed at night, while others feel this is unsavoury and unhygienic. If you’re wondering – should my dog sleep on the bed? – read our Holidays4Dogs article for thoughts and advice.
Sharing a bed with your dog can be comforting and relaxing but, at the same time, there are many factors that can influence whether you both get a good night’s sleep, or not.
Lack of sleep can affect humans, more than dogs because, they have the opportunity to take lots of naps during the day.
Humans, on the other hand, may feel quite grumpy from a night of sleeping with a fidgety dog. Small dogs can be even worse, as you may be constantly aware of avoiding squishing them during the night!
Won’t my dog become dominant if I let them sleep on the bed?
Many people believe that allowing your dog to share a bed can cause dogs to become dominant and, potentially, aggressive. However, the idea that allowing your dog to sleep in your bed, or share the sofa, is a misconception. Animal behaviourists have known for a long time that dominance theory is incorrect. For more on this subject, head over to our other article which explains more here.
However, some dogs can react by growling if they are startled, or accidentally kicked – so it’s up to the individual to decide whether their dog is going to enjoy sharing a bed with a fidgety owner.
Will I catch anything nasty from my dog, if they share the bed with me?
Dogs can carry parasites, like fleas and ticks which can impact on human health – although this is rare. Dogs can also be dirty, especially if they have long fur. Many people don’t like the idea of sharing the bed with a stinky. By ensuring your dog is kept well groomed, clean and free from parasites – you minimise the risk to your own health.
Many people also suffer from allergies to pet hair and dander, so sharing a space so closely may exacerbate symptoms. While dogs are out and about, they collect pollen and dust which can cause respiratory problems in the person sleeping close.
Ensuring your dog is brushed and wiped down before bed, can help with this. However, for people who are seriously immune compromised, it might be wise not to share a bed with the family pooch.
Does my dog want to share the bed?
Even if you like the idea of your dog sleeping on the bed, your dog may not be quite so enthusiastic. Some dogs prefer their own space and many may get too hot sharing a bed with their owner.
While dogs tend to sleep a lot over a 24 hour period, they don’t always sleep solidly throughout the night. Many like to get up, wander around and stretch – this in itself, can disturb light sleepers.
Final thoughts.
Despite what some trainers or well-meaning people say, there is nothing wrong with letting your dog sleep on your bed. It is really up to the individual – and of course any human partners need to agree as well.
Many people report that they have enhanced sleep quality, when their dog sleeps on the bed.
To keep beds dog hair free, consider buying a couple of throws to minimise hairy duvets.
Make sure your dog is well groomed and clean and if you suffer from allergies, or other autoimmune issues, perhaps get your dog their own bed. Placing this on the floor next to your own bed, might be a good compromise.
All in all, as long as long everyone is getting a good night’s sleep – sharing a bed with your pooch is quite ok.
Some of our lovely Holidays4Dogs carers will allow dogs to sleep in the bedroom and some will even let dogs sleep on the bed. You can rest assured – (pun intended!) your dog won’t miss out on home comforts if they stay with us.
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