There has always been a split when it comes to whether or not you should invite your dog into your bed. Some people swear by it, saying that they get a better sleep when they’re snuggling with their furbaby by their side. However, there are others who believe that a dog should go to sleep in their own separate bed on the floor.
Personally, I’ve always sworn by sharing my bed with my pets. Growing up, I always had cats. And they were the ones who ran the show for the nighttime sleeping arrangements. We had a dog, Bonita, who by default used to sleep in her own bed on the floor of my parents’ bedroom – not because of my parents, the cats used to kick her off the bed at night. Of course, come wintertime, they didn’t mind her joining since she did give off quite a bit of heat.
Now, there is a new study, which was conducted by the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ, whose findings will hopefully settle this debate once and for all. According to the survey conducted on 150 dog owners, 4 in 10 people reported better sleep when their dogs shared the bed. And here are some of their reasons, too!
Positive Reasons to Sleep with Your Dog
Less Stress
Participants claimed that being next to their dog helped them feel calmer. So it is no wonder that as you’re drifting off to sleep you’d want your pet beside you. I myself can attest there is something distressing about a cute little sleeping furball beside you.
Safety
This is an obvious one. For any pet owner that shares a bed or room at night with their dog there is definitely lots of comfort knowing that you’ll be alerted in the middle of the night should there be a fire, intruder, or other unexpected event. And that was exactly what people in the survey took comfort in knowing.
Happy Family
Just like the family bed that is suggested for newborn humans, there is something bonding about sharing the bed with your dog. You aren’t the only one who benefits, your dog loves sleeping with you too, so letting them into your bed is also good for your dog’s health and overall well-being.
Decreased Depression
Snuggling with your dog can also help you stave off feelings of loneliness and depression. That warm body weight is always a great help to you to feel less isolated.
Warmth
I always found that the best part of autumn and winter was snuggling up with pets. They’re like little hot water bottles that can also steal the covers. But if you want to stay warm without exhausting your heating bill then you should cuddle with your dog.
Better Sleep
As previously mentioned, there are plenty of people who sleep better when their dog is nearby. And that can be for a number of reasons.
Comfort
Staying close to your loved ones can be a great source of comfort. And let’s be realistic, where else can you find a better source of unconditional love, than from your dog? Snuggling with them at night is always a great comfort source.
What do you think of the list?
