For many dog owners, allowing their pet to snuggle up in bed is part of the nightly routine. But the question of whether it is actually good for either party has been hotly debated for years. Now, a study has finally settled the issue.
According to research published by Mayo Clinic Proceedings, sharing your bedroom with your pet—as long as he or she is not under the covers—may actually improve your sleep. Lois Krahn, M.D., co-author of the research and a sleep medicine specialist at the Center for Sleep Medicine, said: 'Pet owners can find comfort knowing [having the dog in their bed] won’t negatively impact their sleep.'
Experts at PetMD also say that another concern for pet owners is whether sleeping with a pet can lead to disease. However, it would be 'very rare' for something like that to occur if the pet and person are both in good health, experts agree.
Ultimately, whether or not your dog should sleep in your bed may depend on several factors, including your dog’s health, behaviour, and your own sleep quality. While some dogs and owners thrive co-sleeping, others benefit from separate sleeping arrangements. Understanding the full picture can help owners make a more informed—and restful—choice.
