Should Dogs Sleep In Your Bed?

As a pet owner, sharing the bed with your furry friend at night may be a common routine. But Should dogs sleep in your bed? While one group says a solid yes, others are not so sure. Today, Sleep Guides India will end this debate once and for all. Just keep reading to know if should dogs sleep in your bedroom.

Should Your Dog Sleep In Your Bed?

If you are wondering if should I let my dog sleep with me, well there are a few factors that you need to consider. From the age of the dog to its health, everything comes into play when you are deciding. 

When you shouldn’t let your dog sleep in your bed

A few instances when sleeping with your dog isn’t the best idea-

• If your furry baby is still a puppy, chances are that it is still not house-trained, and helping them on the mattress could cause accidents as it takes them at least four to six months to understand and learn.
• If you have severe allergies, pet dander can aggravate your condition. 
• Pets don’t lie still like humans when they are asleep. There are chances that they get in and out of bed, and also, they snore loudly or act out in dreams. So, if you are a light sleeper, this can disturb your slumber. 
• If you or your dog is injured or sick, it is best to let them sleep alone to avoid worsening the condition. 

When it is OK to let your dog sleep in your bed

It’s okay to let your dog sleep with you;

• If you have a big bed and ample space for both of you.
• If your pet is clean where he showers regularly, and you clean their paws after every walk.
• If both you and your dog can enjoy a sound slumber while sharing the bed. 
• If your pet isn’t aggressive or acts out in sleep.

Benefits of Letting Your Dog Sleep With You

Should you let your dog sleep with you? Well, let’s take a look at all the benefits.

You Are Never Lonely 

This goes without saying but with your dog around, you are never lonely. They are by your side to give you warmth and comfort. 

Depression and Anxiety 

Did you know? Your furry friend can boost your self-esteem and lower the symptoms of depression. They can also help relieve stress and elevate serotonin and dopamine levels. They are your feel-good hormones. 

Improves Heart Health 

People with pets have lower blood pressure and cholesterol. When you cuddle or hug your furry baby, it has therapeutic effects. 

You Feel Safe 

Dogs are sensitive and can sniff any crucial situation and alert you. So, sleeping with them makes you feel safe and secure. 

No Allergies Later in Life 

According to a study, when an infant spends their first year with a pet, they don’t suffer from allergies later in life.

Why Your Dog Shouldn’t Sleep With You

Now that you know all the top benefits of letting the dog sleep in bed, let’s talk about why your dog shouldn’t sleep with you.

A Dog Sleeping In Your Bed Can Disturb Your Sleep

One of the biggest downsides of dogs sleeping in your bed is that they can disrupt your sleep. However, this is only the case with some pet owners. If you are a light sleeper and your canine friend has a habit of getting in and out of bed multiple times or snoring loudly, it can get difficult for you. That said, some dogs tend to sleep well with their owners. So, it depends on your little one! 

Sleeping With Your Dog May Aggravate Allergies or Asthma

Sleeping with your dog in bed is a big no-no if you suffer from allergies or asthma. This is because pet dander can worsen your condition. 

Dog Sleep Reactivity Could Lead to Injury

If your furry baby tends to react in sleep or act out, it can cause injuries. In fact, sometimes, even when they are startled, they tend to snap. If you have experienced this once, avoid sleeping with them, as the next time you may end up with a bite. 

Sleeping With Your Dog Can Make You Sick

In very rare cases, dogs can transfer diseases to their humans. So, if you must share the bed with your dog, ensure they are in perfect health. 

Dogs Can Carry Parasites

Even if you give your dog regular baths and keep them clean, they can carry parasites, such as ticks or fleas. These little pests don’t discriminate and can even feast on humans. This is why your dog shouldn’t sleep with you.

Things to Consider Before Sharing the Bed With Your Dog

Some factors you must take into account before sharing your bed with your dog are; 

Dog’s Age

Dogs’ age is an essential factor here. Let’s say, your furry friend is still young, there are chances that you may injure it in sleep, which is especially true in the case of puppies. So, should puppies sleep in your bedroom? No. Even if your dog is very old, it may find it hard to get in and out of bed. 

Dog’s Behaviour

If your dog is patient and a sober fellow, you have nothing to worry about. But, if he is aggressive, it can become difficult for you. 

Dog’s Breed

Some dog breeds are great to cuddle, whereas some sleep like a log throughout the night. If that’s the case, you are good to go. 

Dog’s Cleanliness

Cleans dogs are great. Before bed, you can ensure that you use wet wipes for additional cleanliness. However, if your dog loves rolling in the dirt now and then, there are chances that germs are still clung to them.

Dog’s Routine

If your dog is already accustomed to a dedicated sleep place, they may need help to change their routine, which may take some getting used to. Also, check if the dog wants to sleep on the bed!

Tips for Safely Sleeping with Your Dog

Is it okay to let your dog sleep with you? It depends on several factors as mentioned above. But if everything is good, these tips can help you safely sleep with your dog. 

Set boundaries

Clear boundaries will make it easier for you and your dog to enjoy a good night’s rest. For instance, if they generally sleep at the foot of your bed, make them sleep in their designated spot every day. 

Don’t allow aggression

Don’t let there be room for aggression. If your dog is being snarly or aggressive, try behaviour training to help them out.

Keep pets above the covers

You can use covers to sleep on so they don’t transfer germs or dirt to the mattress. 

Take them out before bedtime

To prevent accidents and keep your dog comfortable throughout the night, take them out before you hit the sheets. 

Keep your pet clean

To let the dog sleep in bed, it is essential to keep them clean. This includes regular baths, cleaning them after walks, etc. 

Use a mattress protector

For dogs sleeping in bed, you can always use mattress protectors to keep the mattress clean. 

Conclusion

There are benefits and drawbacks when it comes to allowing your dogs on the bed. End of the day, it is a personal choice. However, hygiene and health should always be prioritised.

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