You lie down, close your eyes, and there it is—your four-legged friend seeking their favorite spot on your bed.
Have you ever wondered why your dog prefers to sleep with you rather than in their own bed? Is it really safe to share your resting space with them?
In this article, I’ll reveal the reasons why your dog loves to snuggle up next to you and explain whether you should allow it.
1. It’s in Their Nature
Your dog sleeps with you because, essentially, it’s what their DNA dictates. Keep in mind that dogs are direct descendants of wolves and have retained that deeply social nature.
They dislike solitude. They prefer company, especially that of those they consider part of their “pack.” And you, as their trusted human, have become a vital member of this circle.
This urge to stay together, even during rest periods, is not something your dog can simply ignore. It’s an instinct that has allowed them and their ancestors to survive through the centuries.
That’s why following you to bed seems the most natural thing in the world. In households with multiple dogs, they might find comfort in each other, but don’t be surprised if they end up seeking a spot next to you.
2. They’re Protecting You
By lying next to you, what they’re really doing is fulfilling their protective instinct towards you. Remember that for your dog, you are part of their pack, and they feel responsible for your safety.
This is especially important during the nighttime hours when they perceive that both of you are more vulnerable.
It’s their way of ensuring that nothing bad happens to you while you sleep. In nature, sleep is the most vulnerable time, and your dog, even though they now live in a home, maintains that instinctual alertness.
3. They Feel Safer by Your Side
Just as your dog sleeps by your side to protect you, you are also protecting them. When your dog chooses to snuggle next to you at night, it shows their absolute trust in you.
If they choose to sleep next to you, especially resting their head on your body, it’s their way of telling you they feel completely safe by your side.
We could say it’s a cycle of mutual care: your dog protects you, and at the same time, feels protected by you.
4. They’re Looking for a Warmer Place
Sometimes, the reason your dog seeks your bed has nothing to do with protection or pack instinct, but something much simpler: the cold.
At night, the floor can be a cold and unwelcoming place to sleep, and your bed represents a perfect oasis of warmth for your dog.
This is more relevant in smaller breeds or those with less fur, as maintaining an adequate body temperature requires more effort from them.
If you notice this behavior becoming routine, maybe it’s time to check their resting place. Make sure their bed is warm and well insulated from the floor.
This will ensure your dog gets the necessary warmth for optimal rest.
5. They’re More Comfortable than in Their Bed
If your dog is uncomfortable in their bed, let me tell you they will try to sleep in yours by any means necessary.
You have to understand that if their bed is small, uncomfortable, or located in a bad part of the house, they won’t rest well and will seek an alternative.
Avoid placing their bed in high-traffic areas, with noise or drafts. Also, try to make sure the bed fits their size and has the right texture.
If you neglect this point, you’ll end up with your dog at your feet every night. If that’s what you want, it’s okay, but if you want to avoid this habit, make sure they have a good place to rest alone.
6. They Feel Unwell
Has your dog previously slept alone and has now started to sleep with you? Then you should pay attention. When a dog has this sudden change in behavior, it usually means they feel unwell.
It could be a mood state, like fear or loneliness, or physical pain. And what they will do is sleep with you in search of your comfort.
Your company will alleviate some of their discomfort and allow them to feel a bit better.
You should pay attention to these symptoms, and if you notice this change in behavior, analyze what might be the cause.
If in doubt about pain or physical discomfort, take them to your veterinarian for a check-up.
And if you think they’re scared, you can ask a canine trainer to analyze your situation and help your dog overcome their fears.
7. They’re Showing Their Love
The last reason, and perhaps the most special of all, is simple: your dog adores you.
They might have everything they need to be comfortable, from a cozy bed to feeling completely safe, but they choose to be by your side because they value every moment with you.
For your dog, you are their world, and showing you their love by sleeping with you is one of the most pure ways they can express it.
So, when they decide to sleep with you in your bed, you should understand that they are driven by a deep affection for you.
If you prefer they sleep in their space, it’s important that you guide them with patience and love, recognizing their gesture as a sign of affection, and teaching them where you want them to rest.
Should You Let Your Dog Sleep with You?
Deciding whether your dog should sleep with you is not as simple as a yes or no. Sleeping together can strengthen your relationship with your pet, allowing you to enjoy the warmth and companionship they offer.
However, there are several aspects to consider before inviting your four-legged friend to your bed.
First, it’s advisable that your dog is an adult and well-trained to avoid complications. If you let them sleep by your side when they are a small adorable puppy, they later might not understand why you no longer allow it.
Keep in mind that your dog will grow, and they might end up taking up more space than you thought.
And while sharing your bed can enhance the bond between you both, it’s crucial to consider the possible sleep disruptions. Dogs often wake up easily during the night, which could disrupt your rest.
Allergies are another factor to consider. Close contact throughout the night can increase allergic symptoms.
Moreover, hygiene is also essential. Keeping them clean and free of parasites is crucial for the health of both of you.
However, the benefits of sleeping with your dog are also significant. Research suggests that sleeping with your dog can benefit your sleep. But not only that: it can also improve your mood thanks to the release of oxytocin, the love hormone.
Nevertheless, if you find that your dog’s presence disturbs your rest, you might opt to place their bed close to yours. It’s a way to have them close without the negative aspects of them sleeping directly in your bed.
In the end, you must keep in mind that the decision to allow your dog to sleep in your bed comes down to a balance between emotional benefits and possible complications.
With the right precautions and a bit of planning, sharing your bed with your dog can be a rewarding experience for both of you.
Can Sleeping with Your Dog Cause Them Separation Anxiety?
Don’t worry, sleeping with your dog won’t cause them separation anxiety. This is a common misunderstanding.
The reality is that dogs that already experience separation anxiety are simply more likely to seek your constant closeness, including during the night.
But separation anxiety arises from other factors, not from sharing the bed. If your dog desires to be close to you even when you go to bed, it’s more a sign of their affection or their need for security than a cause of distress when you’re not there.
In summary, the reasons why your dog prefers to sleep with you range from their innate protective instincts to the simple comfort of warmth and safety. Allowing your dog to share your bed can deepen the bond between you both, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
By ensuring your dog is well-trained and considering factors like sleep disruptions and hygiene, you can create a sleeping arrangement that benefits both you and your furry friend.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on what works best for your lifestyle and your dog’s well-being.
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