Should Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed?

There are two kinds of dog people: the ones who swear their bed is a “dog-free zone”… and the ones currently clinging to six inches of mattress while their adorable German Shepherd snores like a chainsaw beside them. And then, of course, you have those non-dog people who don’t understand it at all (yes, unbelievable, I know, but it’s true – they exist.)

In our house, the bed is shared. And by shared, I actually mean the dogs allow us to share with them (and I use the term “share” loosely). We wouldn’t have it any other way.

So, should your dog sleep in your bed?

The answer is surprisingly simple: if you’re comfortable with it, and everyone is sleeping well, there’s really no universal rule saying they shouldn’t. In fact, research suggests there may actually be some emotional and physical benefits to sharing your bed with your pup.

That said, like many things in dog parenting, it comes down to lifestyle, boundaries, and what helps everyone get the best night’s sleep.

Should Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed? The Research Behind Co-Sleeping With Dogs

Dogs are social sleepers by nature. In the wild, canines sleep close together for warmth, comfort, and protection. Your dog doesn’t see climbing into your bed as “breaking the rules.” They see it as joining their family pack.

And honestly? Many humans love it too. There’s something comforting about having a warm little companion curled up beside you after a long day. For many people, it reduces stress and creates a feeling of safety and connection.

Believe it or not, scientists have actually studied this. A lot:

• Research from the Mayo Clinic looked at adults who slept with dogs in the bedroom and found many people reported feeling more secure and comforted by their dog’s presence. Some even slept better with their dog nearby. I know I do.
• Other studies have shown that interacting with dogs can increase oxytocin – often called the “bonding hormone” – while lowering cortisol, the stress hormone. That calming effect may explain why some people genuinely feel more relaxed falling asleep with their dog beside them.
• There’s also evidence that dogs can help reduce anxiety and loneliness, especially for people who live alone. This alone can help with those feelings of security that lead to a better night’s sleep.

What’s maybe even more shocking is that research shows that, compared with human bed partners, dogs who slept in the owner’s bed disturb sleep less and are associated with stronger feelings of comfort and security!

For some humans, a dog in bed equals comfort, emotional regulation, and better sleep.

The Benefits of Sharing

As mentioned, we let our dogs sleep in the bed. The nights when they’re missing, I know that my sleep isn’t as good.

There are several reasons to do the same:

1. It Can Strengthen Your Bond: Sleeping together can deepen the human-animal connection. Dogs thrive on closeness and companionship, and bedtime cuddles can reinforce feelings of trust and security.
2. It May Reduce Stress: Petting a dog has been shown to lower blood pressure and help the nervous system relax. Ending the day with a calm cuddle session may help some people unwind more easily.
3. Some People Feel Safer: Many people feel more secure with a dog nearby, especially if they live alone. Even small dogs can provide emotional comfort and alert you to unusual noises.
4. Warmth and Comfort: Let’s be honest – dogs are basically furry heated blankets.

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Is it Always the Best Idea to Share?

Now, I know that not everyone can take advantage of those benefits. Sometimes, it’s just not feasible. And that’s ok! It’s fine if you prefer your bed to remain a human-only space. Your dog won’t be emotionally damaged because they sleep in their own cozy bed beside yours.

1. Your Sleep Quality Matters: If your dog sprawls across the bed, snores loudly, dreams dramatically, or insists on rotating positions every 12 minutes, your sleep may suffer. Poor sleep affects everything from mood to immune health, so if sharing the bed leaves you exhausted, it’s okay to set boundaries.
2. Some Dogs Sleep Better Separately: Not all dogs enjoy being disturbed during sleep. Some may become grumpy or reactive if startled awake. Others simply prefer cooler, quieter sleeping spaces. Both our dogs will leave the bed during the night if they get too warm.
3. Allergies Can Become an Issue: Dogs bring dirt, pollen, dander, and occasionally mysterious outdoor smells into the bed. If you have allergies or asthma, sharing a bed may worsen symptoms.
4. Puppies May Need Structure: Young puppies usually do better with crate training or a designated sleep area at first. It helps with potty training, safety, and developing independence.

Does Letting Your Dog Sleep in Bed Cause Behaviour Problems?

This is one of the biggest myths out there. You’ve probably heard it before, especailly when it comes to puppies.

Modern animal behaviour experts generally agree that letting your dog sleep in your bed does not automatically make them dominant, stubborn, or “alpha.” Behaviour problems are usually connected to inconsistent boundaries, lack of training, fear, anxiety, or unmet needs – not sleeping arrangements. A well-adjusted dog can happily sleep in your bed or in their own bed.

The important thing is that your dog respects boundaries when needed. If you ask them to move over, get down, or sleep elsewhere occasionally, they should be able to do so comfortably.

So… Should Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed?

Should your dog sleep in your bed? If everyone sleeps well, enjoys it, and feels comfortable, there’s no reason your dog can’t sleep in your bed. Admittedly, if the dogs are snuggled in before we get into bed, we won’t move them. We sleep around them. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Research suggests co-sleeping with dogs may provide emotional comfort, reduce stress, and strengthen the bond between people and pets.

But if you prefer having your own sleeping space? That’s perfectly okay too. Your dog doesn’t measure love by mattress access.

At the end of the day, the “right” answer is simply the one that works best for your household, whether your dog sleeps under the covers, beside the bed, or upside down in the hallway for reasons no one fully understands.