Sharing your bed with your dog can be one of the most heartwarming decisions a pet owner makes. But beneath the cozy cuddles lies a complex mix of health, sleep quality, and behavioral concerns that deserve careful thought. Is inviting your furry friend under the covers a harmless bonding experience, or is it a choice that could disrupt your rest and your dog’s well-being?
Dr. Sandra Mitchell, a trusted U.S.-based veterinarian with over 15 years of experience in animal behavior, offers clear guidance on navigating the many factors involved in co-sleeping with your dog. With insights grounded in science and practical care, she helps pet parents make informed choices for a happy, healthy household.
When is the right time to let your dog join your bed?
The decision to share your bed with your dog should ideally come after they are fully trained and emotionally mature, Dr. Mitchell explains. “Puppies or new dogs who are restless and demanding attention throughout the night can quickly deepen bad habits that are difficult to break later,” she says. Early boundaries and consistent training are vital.
Giving your dog a safe, comfortable sleeping space of their own instills security and helps prevent bed-sharing from feeling like a necessity. Once your pet can stay calm and well-behaved through the night, inviting them onto your bed becomes a choice that enhances your bond instead of creating problems.
This connection is more than emotional—it’s physiological. Research has shown that close physical contact releases oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” which reduces stress and promotes feelings of happiness in both dogs and humans. According to a 2019 study published in Frontiers in Psychology, co-sleeping may even have cardiovascular benefits by lowering stress-induced blood pressure spikes.
Challenges of co-sleeping with your dog
Despite the warmth and companionship, dogs have fundamentally different sleep cycles than humans. Their natural alertness means they often remain semi-aware during rest and can startle easily at sounds or movements, potentially causing disrupted sleep for their owners.
Breed, temperament, and individual health also make a difference. Active or high-energy breeds like Border Collies or Huskies may find it harder to settle, while some people managing health conditions may not tolerate frequent nighttime awakenings.
Health risks exist too. Dogs can carry parasites such as fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms that pose transmission risks, especially for children, seniors, or people with compromised immune systems. These parasites can spread diseases that often don’t show symptoms immediately, making preventative care essential.
How to create a safe, healthy co-sleeping environment
Dr. Mitchell emphasizes hygiene and routine veterinary care to make co-sleeping a low-risk pleasure. This includes regular grooming and bathing, along with parasite prevention treatments and vaccinations.
Using practical measures like a mattress protector and frequent washing of bedding further protects against allergens and pests. Establishing a clean and comfortable space is important for both you and your dog to enjoy restful nights.
From my own experience as a pet owner, balancing my dog’s comfort with my sleep needs has been crucial. Setting consistent bedtime routines—whether that means he sleeps on his cozy bed nearby or quietly joins me under the covers — ensures we both wake up refreshed and stress-free.
Finding the right balance for you and your dog
The key takeaway is that a healthy coexistence in bed is possible but requires thoughtful decision-making tailored to your individual situation. Both pet and owner deserve a peaceful night with minimal disruption and maximum comfort.
When deciding whether your dog should sleep with you, prioritize well-being on both sides. Consider your dog’s personality, medical history, and your own lifestyle to find what truly works. There is no universal answer—just what fits your unique family dynamic.
Have you ever shared your bed with your dog? How did it affect your sleep and the bond you share? I invite you to drop a comment below and share your story. Let’s learn from each other how to strike the perfect balance of love and restful nights together.
6 Comments
I allow my dog to sleep on my bed but never under the covers with me. He sleeps on his on blanket at the foot of the bed outside my covers. He is a fully trained service dog so sleeping close to me is a necessity and when he is not on the bed he is beside me on the floor. I love having him nearby.
Our Aussiedoodle was rescue 9 yesterday. ago. We were told she was a 1 1/2 or. old Labradoodle. After 1 mo. and double weight gain our Vet said maybe 8 mos. and definitely not a Labradoodle. Best bar was an Aussiedoodle or an Irish Woolfhound. Thank God Cookie stopped growing in 1mo. She has slept with my wife and for almost 9yrs.now. She sleeps better than us.
Takes over the bed as well.
She is our Baby! We are 59.
I had a little shi shu she always slept in my bed and was so good would go under the clothes loved the heat but would come out if she got v warm .If I didn’t move all night neither would she .I wish she was still here I certainly wouldn’t complain her being in my bed .
yes my dog sleeps with we but not under the sheets.
My dog sleeps on the bed on cushions but ends up snuggling up to me I love it and sleep really well !
It’s not a sin. Animal is equal to the owner. Owner may rise up to the Animal status after 3 years of the togetherness. It’s a truth.