If you roll over in bed and startle your pet, he may not intend to bite, but an unintentional bite hurts just as much as an intentional one. But, if you and your dog do not have health issues or behavioral issues that would make sleeping together an unhealthy situation for either party, co-sleeping should be just fine.
Studies have shown many physical and mental health advantages to owning a pet, and co-sleeping increases the amount of time spent with that pet, potentially increasing those benefits. For example, co-sleeping can increase the feelings of comfort and companionship your dog provides.
A dedicated dog bed is the best place for your pup to rest their weary head at night. But depending on your dog's personality, there might be other sleeping locations that they prefer, or ways you can make their bed more comfortable. Learn why dogs need their own beds and how you can help your pup get better rest.
You may not want to let your dog sleep in bed with you if Fido does prevent you from sleeping well. Your dog may be a restless sleeper and move too much in the night or wake up and bark at every little sound. They might make the bed uncomfortably hot, especially in summer or if you have a large or hairy dog.
His bed is too small, lumpy, or dirty and he feels claustrophobic or uncomfortable in it. You've recently moved his bed and he doesn't like the new location. He's too hot and is trying to regulate his body temperature by lying on a cool tile or wood surface. Or he might be searching for a less drafty sleeping spot.
Some dogs like to sleep alone, others prefer company. Dogs need a routine and established boundaries.
Dog Beds are Optional — But Wonderful
And many dogs will find that comfort invaluable to their rather lengthy sleep schedule. Let's face it, sometimes you'll find your pet stretched out on the floor next to that luxurious dog bed you spent hours picking out for her.
A Dog Bed of One's Own
Dogs are denning creatures who instinctively seek out warm, safe, soft spots to call their own. In the wild, dogs would never sleep on the cold, hard ground if they could help it. Instead, they would gather leaves for insulation from the chill, or find a soft section of grass to tamp down.
“For dogs that have medical issues that require rest, blankets may be necessary for comfort, to prevent injuries like bedsores and to act as a cushion should they fall,” she says. According to Dr. McCullough, blankets can help dogs with health and behavior issues, too.
In the end, allowing your dog on the sofa is just a matter of preference. Whatever you decide, make sure every member of your family sticks by the rules. If you or anyone else lets him up on the furniture, he may just think he's welcome all the time.
Dogs are den animals so they appreciate having a spot where they can relax. You'll want to choose a good dog bed that is an appropriate size for your pup. Naturally, large dogs need bigger beds than small ones. This ensures that your canine companion has more than enough space to stretch out and snooze.
Most dogs sleep for 12 hours a day. Choosing the right bed is essential. A dog's bed is a place he can retreat to when he needs time by himself. Though many people think dogs can curl up and sleep most anywhere, your furry friend really shouldn't be sleeping on the floor.
Benefits of a Dog Bed
The best dog beds will provide insulation, cushion tired joints and give your pup a feeling of security. A bed—along with a collar, leash and food bowls—should be at the top of the list for any new pet parent.
Just like cats—well, maybe not as independent-minded—each dog has its preference and tolerance for cuddling. Some are total cuddle bugs, some take a shine to a little cuddling and prefer their own cozy spot on the couch or their dog bed. Meanwhile, other dogs, eh, they can take or leave cuddling, thank you very much.
Although it's normal for dogs to sleep for more than half the day in some cases, it becomes a concern when your dog sleeps longer than normal or way less. People say a tired dog is a happy dog and a “tired dog, happy owner,” but a very tired dog can be even more dangerous for itself and its people.
Yes, dogs do get lonely. Dogs are descendants of wolves, pack animals who do pretty much everything together. Wolves sleep together, hunt together, eat together—you get the picture. Though dogs have a long history of domestication that separates them from their wild ancestors, they're still inherently social animals.
Keep Their Sleeping Area Quiet and Dark: Mammals have circadian rhythms that are influenced by light. View Source , so it's easier for your dog to sleep at night if it's dark or dim. It's also easier for them to sleep if they aren't being interrupted by excessive noise.
Licking is a natural and instinctive behaviour to dogs. For them it's a way of grooming, bonding, and expressing themselves. Your dog may lick you to say they love you, to get your attention, to help soothe themselves if they're stressed, to show empathy or because you taste good to them!
HUMANS NOT AT RISK, IT'S THE OTHER WAY ROUND
Other safe ways to show affection are cuddles, petting them on laps and of course belly rubs," says Dr Shilpy. However, experts say one should not let their pets lick the areas around nose, mouth and eyes to minimise risk of infections.
The truth is, it is not known and has not been proven whether or not allowing your dog to sleep in your bed is a direct cause of behavioural issues. However, allowing your dog to sleep in your bed may encourage a problem that's already there.
Small companion dogs are most at risk in temperature extremes and it would be cruel to leave them outside at temperatures below 10°C or above 30°C. Larger breeds are often okay to stay outside when the temperature goes as low as 7°C as long as there's no wind.
Using a treat, give your dog his “settle down” command, reward him and get yourself into bed. Every time your dog jumps on the bed or cries to be let up, step out of bed, get a treat (leave a secure stash of treats on a bedside table), walk your dog back to their bed and repeat the “settle down” command.
Unlike puppies, adult dogs sleep more at night than during the day. They may use 60-80% of the time between 8 pm and 8 am to sleep. Their sleep schedule at night is more similar to that of their human owners. However, adult dogs still spend a significant part of their day sleeping.
The myth that separation anxiety or aggression in dogs is caused by co-sleeping is just that. A myth.