Deciding whether your dog should sleep in the same bed as you or in their own bed next to yours, is entirely your choice. Here we have a look at the benefits to you and your dog of sleeping in the same bed as each other.

A comforting routine

Your dog loves you very much and sees you as their guide and provider. Allowing your dog to sleep with you creates a comforting routine so he does not feel scared or lonely. This can also be true for you, having your pet nearby during the night can also help you feel more comforted and secure.

Health benefits

Several studies have shown that there are many physical and mental health advantages to owning a dog. Sleeping together increases the amount of time you spend with your dog, potentially increasing these health benefits.

Having a dog can actually help lower your blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve feelings of loneliness. Allowing your dog into your bedroom can provide a calm, soothing presence at night-time.

Strengthening the bond

Just being together in the same room even while asleep can help your dog develop their loyalty to you and increase your bond. When sleeping, you are both more vulnerable, and spending it together increases feelings of trust and confidence in each other.

Safe and sound

Dogs have excellent hearing and are protective of their owners and territory. They are quick to detect if something is wrong. Having your dog sleep in the same room as you is like having an alarm system installed in your bedroom as your dog can alert you to any approaching danger.

It keeps your dog safe too

If you let your dog roam freely around the house during the night, they could find themselves getting into trouble. Keeping them in your bed or bedroom during the night helps them avoid getting into things they shouldn’t be in and undertaking activities that they should only do when supervised.

It can also help stop your dog from going to the bathroom inside the house as dogs do not like to make near to where they sleep. Make sure you give your pup a chance to go to the bathroom right before bedtime to avoid any accidents.

Established sleeping patterns

Both you and your dog will sleep deeper and for longer when you know the other one is fast asleep. As dogs follow the lead of their owners, they will also begin to emulate your sleep pattern.

Once a routine is established your dog will likely go to sleep and awake around the same time each day. Routines help your dog feel more secure and relaxed, and a good night’s sleep will be good for you too.

Warm and toasty!

By allowing your dog to sleep in your bed, you have the added benefit of letting them warm up the bed before you get in! Dogs are great at keeping you warm and toasty throughout a cold nigh too.