Hairy Beds and Happy Hounds: Should You Let Your Dog Sleep With You?
After British comedian Grace Campbell revealed her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is allowed on the bed, the debate over whether dogs should share their owners’ beds has been reignited.
To find out more, we spoke to Carolyn Menteith, Dog Behaviourist at leading dog food subscription brand Tails.com, who reveals whether you should be letting your dog sleep in your bed and addresses the hygiene concerns that come with doing so.
Should I let my dog sleep in my bed?
“If you want your dog to sleep with you, and that’s part of the bond you hope to share, that’s absolutely fine; it can help build a strong connection (though be prepared for a hairy bed!). However, it’s easy to accidentally injure your dog or puppy by rolling over in your sleep, or they may fall off the bed during the night.
“Though sharing a bed with a dog may be deemed controversial or unsanitary to some, ultimately the decision to do so or not is completely up to the dog owner themselves. “Many dogs sleep on their human’s bed due to the close emotional bonds built over time, and because it helps them feel safe. Similarly, many people also feel a deep level of security and comfort allowing their beloved pets to share a bed with them each evening. “In fact, sleeping with your dog can actually bring a whole host of benefits, and can even help us to enjoy a better night's sleep."
Potential health, behavioural or hygiene considerations of sleeping with your dog in your bed?
“While there are a number of benefits that come with sleeping with your dog, it is important to be aware of the hygiene and health aspects associated with sharing the same bed as your dog.
“At this time of year, our dogs may be prone to shedding as we head towards the warmer months, so you need to keep on top of this if you plan on sharing a bed together. Ensure that you groom and brush your canine companion regularly so that their loose hair doesn’t end up all over your bed, bedroom carpets and furniture. This will also make sure they are clean and mud-free, vital in a sleeping companion!
“As well as this, if your dog has parasites such as fleas or ticks, there is the possibility of transferring them on to you if you are sleeping in such close proximity, so it is important to talk to your vet about the best way to prevent these unwanted night-time visitors.
“At the end of the day, where your dog sleeps is up to you as long as it's what makes you both happy. If you enjoy the canine company, pay attention to hygiene and cleanliness, and don’t mind being kicked by four paws in the middle of the night, there is no reason why bed sharing should be a problem.”
