15 Things To Know Before Letting Your Dog Sleep In Your Bed

Nothing beats the warmth of a furry companion curled up beside you at night. Some say it strengthens the bond, while others worry about sleep disruptions—but what’s the real deal? Before making your bed their bed, there are key things to consider. Here’s what you need to know before inviting your pup under the covers!

Benefits Of Co-Sleeping

Sharing your bed with a dog can reduce anxiety, provide comfort, and enhance sleep quality. A canine companion’s warmth and rhythmic breathing create a calming effect, helping many people fall asleep faster and rest more soundly.

General Safety Guidelines

Before allowing your dog into your bed, ensure they are properly trained, healthy, and clean. All dogs should be fully vaccinated, regularly treated for parasites, and frequently bathed. Establish clear boundaries and consistent rules about bed access to maintain a peaceful sleeping environment.

Small Breeds Are An Advantage

Petite dogs like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Maltese make excellent bed partners due to their minimal space requirements. Their lightweight bodies are less likely to disturb your sleep, and their small size reduces the risk of injury if startled awake.

Caution With Brachycephalic Breeds

Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers may struggle with breathing during sleep. Their snoring might disrupt your rest, and excessive warmth under blankets can worsen their respiratory challenges. Providing them with separate sleeping areas can be a safer option.

Considerations For Senior Dogs

Older dogs benefit from therapeutic beds that provide joint support rather than sharing human mattresses. Senior pups often need more space to stretch out comfortably and may require nighttime bathroom breaks, which can interrupt your sleep patterns.

Large Breeds Require Space

Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Saint Bernards take up significant bed space. Their size can limit human comfort and disrupt sleep. Before inviting large breeds to share your bed, ensure adequate space for everyone to rest comfortably.

Managing Active Sleepers

When high-energy breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds dream, they might twitch, reposition, or even “run” during their dreams. These movements can disturb your sleep. Training these breeds to sleep at the foot of the bed rather than beside you can help minimize disruptions.

Addressing Shedding Concerns

Heavy shedders like Huskies, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers can leave fur on bedding, which may trigger allergies. Keep things in check by using washable covers and making grooming a regular part of the routine.

Awareness Of Territorial Breeds

Some dogs, including Rottweilers and Dobermans, might exhibit protective behavior in bed. This can create issues when partners join or if children approach. Consistent training is essential to establish that the bed remains your territory.

Temperature Regulation Considerations

Double-coated breeds generate substantial body heat. While beneficial during winter, summer co-sleeping might become uncomfortably warm. Seasonal adjustments, such as providing a cooling mattress, can help keep sleep conditions comfortable.

Puppies And Training

Young dogs benefit from crate training before earning bed-sharing privileges. If puppies are allowed in bed too soon, they may lack bladder control or develop separation anxiety. It is recommended that they wait until basic training and house manners are established.

Alternatives To Full Bed Sharing

For breeds not suited to full-night co-sleeping, consider alternatives such as elevated dog beds next to yours, designated snuggle time before sleep, or allowing bed access only in the morning rather than throughout the night.

Health Monitoring Benefits

Co-sleeping allows you to notice subtle health changes in your dog, such as altered breathing patterns, unusual restlessness, or discomfort. These signs could indicate underlying health concerns that require veterinary attention.

Weighing Long-Term Habits

Once a dog is accustomed to sleeping in bed, changing the routine later can be challenging. Consider the long-term commitment before making co-sleeping a habit. If there’s a chance you’ll want your own space in the future, setting boundaries early is key.

Finding The Right Balance

The best co-sleeping arrangement balances human comfort with canine well-being. Respect your dog’s preferences, as some may prefer their own space. Ultimately, the ideal setup should enhance the quality of life for both you and your furry companion.