Fur or Against? The Great Debate of Sharing Your Bed with Your Dog

To share the bed or not share the bed? That is the question! We open up the age-old debate and shine some light on bedding down with your dog

From sleepy snuggles to falling s(h)ound asleep next to your fur baby, catching some Zzzs with your canine companion can sound inviting. As proud pawrents, it’s easy to want to be around our pups 24/7, but is sharing the bed the right choice for you and your furry friend? It may sound like a doggy daydream but it is important to consider the pros and cons. After all, once your pup has discovered how comfortable your bed is, you will have difficulty convincing them that their bed is better.

Your bed is a judgment-free zone

As a pawrent it can be easy to feel as though you are constantly being judged for your decisions. Are we being too harsh? Do we baby our pup too much? But, do you want to know a secret? #Youdoyou! When it comes to your dog’s sleeping arrangements, their comfort is your top priority. If your dog feels more comfortable snuggling up with you, then there is no shame in sharing your sleeping space. Just be prepared for your sheets to be covered in hair and the possibility that you may get woken up in the middle of the night with a paw in your face or worse - by their snoring. Does it still sound like a good plan? Here are the pros and cons of puppy pillow talk. 

Puppy Pros:

1. These sleepy, stolen moments make for ideal bonding time

Crawling into bed at night knowing that your BFF is curled up waiting for you is a priceless feeling that anyone who shares their bed with their dog will know. Not only is sharing your bed with your furry friend a great way to help them feel loved and secure. But, it is also a wonderful way to help us relax and feel a sense of warmth and closeness - which in turn promotes healthy sleep and deepens the connection we share with our canines.

2. Sleep soundly and feel secure

Door locked? Checked for monsters under the bed? There is no denying the fact sharing your bed with your fur baby can make you feel safer and more secure. Hearing their breathing next to you as you drift off to sleep can provide a next-level sense of protection and comfort, especially if you live alone. Because let’s face it, adulting can be hard and it is easy for our minds to fill with worry just as we are about to fall asleep. But knowing that our favorite fur baby is by our side and is prepared to bark the house down if there was ever a problem makes things that extra bit easier.

3. Save on heating bills by sharing body heat

Dogs are little radiators on legs. Their higher body temperature makes them great little heaters on cold nights. Stay warm and cozy all night long and snuggle up to your pooch. Not only does the extra warmth help save on electricity bills, but it also will help you to feel more relaxed, secure, and at ease with the world. It’s a win-win.

Canine Cons:

1. No respect for your 8 hours

Any pawrent can vouch for the fact that although sharing your bed with your dog has its upsides, it will almost certainly guarantee you a disrupted night’s sleep. They may snore, hog the blankets, or take up too much space, causing you to toss and turn throughout the night. If your 8 hours a night are sacred for being the best puppy parent possible, perhaps limit the time your dog spends in your bed to just during the day. After all, if momma ain’t happy, nobody is happy.

2. Let’s not mention the hygiene concerns

Dogs are a breeding ground for bacteria and dirt. From digging up worms in the puppy park to rolling in something unmentionable on their walk there is no limit to how gross a dog can be when they put their mind to it. While some pawrents would just wash their dog and carry on, others may take a sterner view and banish theirs from the bedroom. Letting your dog sleep in your bed means transferring bacteria and nastiness to your bedding. This can be particularly concerning for those with allergies or compromised immune systems.

3. Some believe that it causes behavioral issues

If there was ever a divided opinion among pawrents this has to win first place. Some say that cosleeping is a dream and has helped their pups feel calm and integrated into the family pack. Others however claim that allowing your dog to sleep in your bed can lead to behavioral issues, such as separation anxiety and aggression. If your dog is the jealous type or is prone to being clingy, perhaps establishing their own private space such as a Pawd or a pet mattress would be a better choice.

Regardless if you enjoy canine co-sleeping or if you prefer your bed free of dog hair, there is no denying that watching your puppy sleep is one of the cutest pastimes in life. So, brush your teeth and your dog’s canines too, slip into your pajamas, and get ready for lights out. It’s time to snuggle your pup.