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Should I Let My Puppy Sleep With Me?

A matter of course for some, an absolute no-go for others: There is great disagreement when it comes to the question of whether owners should let their dog sleep in a bed. A study revealed that almost a third of Germans regularly let their dog sleep in a bed. Still uncertain? A few pieces of information, hygiene tips, and an up-to-date study can help you make the right decision for yourself.

Dog in Bed – Good Night, Sleep Problems?

When the four-legged friend cuddles up and dozes peacefully, this has a positive and calming effect on a certain group of people: women can sleep better when the fur nose sleeps in bed.

The survey from the US confirms what many proponents have long known:

A current study from 2018 was able to confirm better sleep quality with a dog in bed. At least that’s what the participants said of themselves. For this purpose, the scientists around Christy L. Hoffman (Canisius College in Buffalo, New York) surveyed 962 adult women. Everyone shared their bed-chamber either with their partner or with a dog or cat. The survey found that dog owners have a healthy sleep rhythm: They go to bed early and get up early. In addition, a dog gives them a feeling of comfort and security at night (more on this below). Somewhat surprising, since some dogs snore: The four-legged friends score with the fact that they are perceived as less annoying than cats or their own life partner.

In summary: Optimal sleep times, safety and comfort, and by no means a disruptive factor – all of this can be achieved by a pet in bed.

Dog in Bed – the Thing About Hygiene

Although the study brings to light many positive arguments for dogs in bed – at least for women – the subject of “hygiene” needs to be examined carefully. Can it be harmless to health when Bello makes herself comfortable in bed?

The bed will never be 100% clean – with or without four-legged friends. Because the truth is: up to 1.5 million mites keep us company when we sleep. In addition, there is sweat, flakes of skin and hair. But let’s stay with the topic “Dog in bed, yes or no?”. The fur nose certainly does not contribute to more cleanliness in bed. A little dirt or, in the worst case, parasites always come into the house from the walks. However, the dirt and the health risk can be significantly reduced if the owner observes the following:

  • Make sure to deworm the dog or puppy regularly or, alternatively, have it tested for worms;
  • Make sure the dog is free of ticks and fleas;
  • Wash bed linen at 60 degrees with heavy-duty detergent, preferably weekly;
  • Before the fur nose slumbers in bed, check that everything is clean. Particular attention is paid to the paws and bottom.

Those who adhere to the points do not have to worry too much about poor hygiene. Unless someone wants to keep the household as sterile as possible. But over time, most dog owners become more relaxed about excessive hygiene in their own four walls.

Should I Let My Dog Sleep With Me?

It wasn’t long ago that the opinion dominated: No dog is allowed on the couch, let alone in the bed! In a somewhat generalized way, some dog experts assumed that all dogs would then take on the role of pack leader. Some dogs actually interpret it as some kind of weak leadership when their human shares the bed with them. Especially when the four-legged friend tries at every opportunity to dispute the position of the pack leader for his master or mistress. But there is usually more to it. If the order of precedence for humans and dogs is not clear, a bed ban alone cannot straighten everything out. But the measure is a step in the right direction.

Basically, if the person is undoubtedly the leader of the pack, then naps together will hardly have any effect on the existing pack constellation.

Security and Warmth

Dogs are bodyguards on four paws. Admittedly, for some, safety is limited to warning of possible dangers. Certainly, no Chihuahua or Miniature Pinscher can protect his human being. But thanks to their keen sense of smell and hearing, they too recognize a threat in front of us humans. The feeling of security is given with fur noses and that helps dog owners to a relaxed sleep. Sharing the bed with the dog can therefore significantly increase the relaxation factor before going to bed.

Fur noses have a body temperature of 37.5-39 ° C. Chilblains can find it pleasant to have a “furry hot water bottle” nearby. Most dogs also love to doze off next to humans in a warm and cozy bed. A feeling of security, security, and warmth is created on both sides. Taking naps together strengthens the bond between dog and human.

Conclusion: dog in bed, yes or no?

It remains a personal decision to share the bed with the dog or to refer him to his basket. There is no right or wrong on this subject. But one thing is essential, as with all topics related to dog training: consistency. Dogs are creatures of habit and need routine. They don’t understand when they are allowed to go to bed one night and stay away from the bedchamber the other night.

If the hygienic measures are all observed, the four-legged friends can fall asleep next to the person without hesitation. Anyone who fears that the dog will see a common night camp as an invitation to take on the role of pack leader should clarify the hierarchy beforehand. It is best for every dog owner to make the decision that they feel most comfortable with. Then dog and person can start the new day relaxed and fit.

Alice White

Written by Alice White

Alice White, a devoted pet lover and writer, has turned her boundless affection for animals into a fulfilling career. Originally dreaming of wildlife, her limited scientific background led her to specialize in animal literature. Now she happily spends her days researching and writing about various creatures, living her dream.

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