In a surprisingly relatable revelation, the Prince of Wales has disclosed a domestic detail that sets him and the Princess of Wales apart from traditional royal norms: they share their bed with their pet dog.
A Royal Bedtime Revelation
Prince William let slip the intimate detail during a visit to Duchy College Stoke Climsland in July last year. The future King told attendees that he and Kate allow their cherished dog, Orla, to sleep on the bed with them. This confession reached the wider public when Irish actress Louisa Harland shared the anecdote with thousands of listeners on Hits Radio Cornwall.
While it is not confirmed if the practice continues at their new Windsor home, Forest Lodge, it was certainly their routine at their previous residence, Adelaide Cottage. This ordinary, working-class habit has been noted for making the royal couple more appealing and relatable to the British public.
Expert Advice for a Peaceful Night's Sleep
Following the revelation, sleep specialist Sammy Margo from Dreams has offered crucial advice to ensure the Waleses—and any pet-owning couple—can maintain a restful and hygienic sleeping environment. Margo highlighted several benefits of co-sleeping with pets, including reduced anxiety, lower blood pressure, and the release of melatonin, which helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm.
"It can also help encourage routine," Margo explained. "Pets often have daily routines, meaning it could help you stick to the same bedtime and wake-up time." She also noted that some dogs can be trained to recognise the physical symptoms of nightmares and respond by soothing their owner back to sleep.
Three Essential Tips for Sharing Your Bed with Pets
Sammy Margo provides three key pieces of practical guidance for anyone who lets their furry friend into their bed.
1. Establish a Pre-Bed Routine: "Make sure they have been outside for the toilet so that they're comfortable for the night," advises Margo. This simple step reduces the risk of nighttime accidents and interruptions.
2. Prioritise Cleanliness: Vigilance with grooming is non-negotiable. "Make sure that they are clean and dry before getting on your bed, and be vigilant for unwanted pests," says Margo. She recommends regular flea treatments and checking your pet's fur, feet, and ears. Furthermore, she advises washing bedsheets at least twice a week and cleaning the mattress regularly to eliminate dead skin cells, dust mites, and germs.
For those with allergies, Margo suggests using anti-allergy duvets, like the Dreams Anti-Allergy Duvet with its microfibre embossing, to ensure an irritation-free sleep.
3. Set Clear Boundaries: This tip requires some training but is vital for undisturbed sleep. "Try to establish a routine and understand exactly how you will share the bed," Margo says. "For example, encourage your dog to sleep near the foot of the bed as they will have plenty of space and they will be less likely to disturb your slumber."
This glimpse into the domestic life of the future King and Queen underscores a modern, down-to-earth approach to family life within the monarchy. By following expert advice, they can ensure their unusual but endearing sleeping arrangement remains a source of comfort rather than conflict.
