Eric wakes up every morning to a furry face with a little black nose. His dog, Molly, is usually already awake, staring and patiently waiting for him to get up and go for their morning walk. As soon as his eyes open, she encourages him with her tiny paw gently patting his nose.
According to research, nearly 50% of dog owners love sleeping with their dogs in bed. Though there are a few reasons not to do so, it’s mutually advantageous for many people and their dogs. Of course, it doesn’t mean it’s right for every dog or dog parent. But for many, the sleeping arrangement is part of the joy of having a dog.
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Why do our dogs like sleeping with us? There could be 100 reasons why. But there are a few that stand out. Let’s take a look at them!
Why Does My Dog Want to Sleep With Me?
They’re Following the Pack Instinct
Dogs are pack animals. Sleeping piled on top of one another is instinctual for a litter of puppies. There is comfort in a pile of littermates. Dogs of any age are most vulnerable when sleeping, so sleeping in groups means safety.
When your furry friend wants to curl up with you, they treat you as a member or leader of their pack and feel comfortable with you. You may also help create the situation by association. For example, if you habitually pick up your dog and put them in your lap when you’re relaxing, they will learn to cuddle with you. This is an excellent approach if you want your dog to sleep with you overnight!
They’re of a Cuddly Breed
Some breeds are more likely to claim a space on your bed than others. Based on an unscientific survey, some of the more cuddly dogs include:
- Golden Retrievers
- Collies
- English Bulldogs
- Labrador Retrievers
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Bichon Frises
This list is undoubtedly a partial one. A German Shepherd or any other dog sleeping with you is not out of the question.
They Have a Great Relationship With You
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Your dog loves you! They want to be with you as much as possible, and sleep time is an excellent occasion for that. To them, you are part of the pack, and sleeping with you means they are loyal and trusting.
One person in the household might be the most frequent target of your dog’s sleeping arrangements. Most likely, this person gives them the most attention and has developed the deepest relationship with them. The dog might sleep on their back with paws in the air, a vulnerable position indicating great trust and security.
They’re Seeking Comfort and Security
Some dogs just want a little comfort, and you are the ideal source for it. Your dog feels safe because of your presence. Your bedding has your scent on it, and they can tunnel under the blanket. They can enjoy the comfort of sprawling across the bed or stretch themselves across your neck or face to be close to you. Hopefully, that dog on your neck is not a Mastiff!
If the dog is anxious, they will go to you to feel secure. Maybe there’s a thunderstorm or the Fourth of July, and fireworks scare them. Maybe they have some longer-term anxiety. You are their safe place.
Your Dog’s Own Bed is Not As Comfortable As Yours
It may also be that your dog’s bed is uncomfortable while your bed is a much comfier alternative.
They’re Enjoying Your Body Warmth
Humans are warm! We make lovely heat sources for our dogs. Some dogs don’t have a thick undercoat or a layer of fat to keep them warm in the winter. To them, you are like a giant hot water bottle radiating body heat and comfort!
They Want to Protect You
Sleeping with you, positioned near your feet, helps the dog be alert to danger and protect you. They are ready to leap into action if the need arises.
What if One of You Doesn’t Enjoy the Close Sleeping Situation?
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Some dogs are just not interested. They have their own comfy beds or crates, they’re more independent, it’s too warm, or they’re a senior dog who can’t jump or climb to your bed. If you want them there, you can create positive associations with the bed or even offer treats until they see the light.
You might be the one who doesn’t want the dog in the same bed. Maybe you can’t sleep soundly, or it’s otherwise uncomfortable. In this case, make sure they have the most comfortable bed you can find, or use a crate with plenty of soft bedding. If needed, crate-train your dog so they will be comfortable and enjoy their crate time.
Pros and Cons of Sleeping With Your Dog
Pros
Having your dog sleep with you:
- Helps build a great relationship with your dog and strengthens your pack.
- It’s extra time spent with them and comfort for both.
- It helps reduce separation anxiety and stress for your dog.
Cons
Having the dog sleep in bed is not the best idea when health issues are present. People with allergies might need to sleep alone. If the dog has problems with incontinence, parasites, or other ailments, they shouldn’t be in your bed until the problem is cleared up.
Another potential issue is sleep patterns. Dogs sleep for a shorter period of time, so they’ll wake up and move around when you want to be asleep. In addition, they may be in protection mode, staying on guard.
If the dog has behavioral issues, such as resource guarding or severe anxiety, sleeping with them can worsen the problem. Therefore, it’s better to address the problem first.
If You Need Help, Call on the K9 Basics Trainers!
When behavioral problems keep you and your dog from cuddle time, contact our training experts at K9 Basics. We know how to ease a dog’s anxiety through training and conditioning. In addition, we can help you develop a strong pack relationship with your dog and give them a reason to seek you out for comfort. And if you need to crate-train your dog, we are here to help with that, too!
Make an appointment, and we’ll help you and your dog get a good night’s sleep!
Give us a call at (866) 592-2742 or, if you’re from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, or New York, visit us at 131 Kenilworth Road, Marlton, New Jersey 08053, to learn more about our dog training services. Also, browse our blog and social media for various topics about dogs and their lives with us!
References
- Stephanie Gibeault, MSc. “Should I Let My Dog Sleep with Me?” American Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, 3 July 2023, www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/should-my-dog-sleep-with-me/. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.
- Oelze, Patty. “Why Dogs like Sleeping with Humans.” Wag!, Wag!, 7 Feb. 2018, wagwalking.com/behavior/why-dogs-like-sleeping-with-humans. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.
- A Pet’s Life. “Why Does My Dog Sleep or Lay so Close to Me?” A Pet’s Life, A Pet’s Life https://apetslife.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/a-pets-life-logo-1-300×108.png, 31 Mar. 2021, apetslife.ca/why-does-my-dog-sleep-or-lay-so-close-to-me/. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.
- “Why Does My Dog Have to Sleep Touching Me? – Sit Means Sit Dog Training Winston-Salem.” Sit Means Sit Dog Training Winston-Salem – Dog Training and Dog Obedience Training in Winston, NC, 2 June 2021, sitmeanssit.com/dog-training-mu/winston-salem-dog-training/2021/06/02/why-does-my-dog-have-to-sleep-touching-me/. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.
- Mills, Ameera. “Why Does My Dog Sleep with Me? – 6 Reasons Dogs Sleep Close to Us.” Animalwised.Com, Animalwised.com, 7 July 2022, www.animalwised.com/why-does-my-dog-sleep-with-me-2846.html#anchor_1. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.
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Category: WHY
