For many dog owners, sharing a bed with their pup is second nature. A survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that nearly 46% of Americans sleep with their pets (American Academy of Sleep Medicine [AASM], 2022). While some see this as a sweet way to bond, others raise concerns about sleep hygiene, allergies, and overall rest quality.
So, is it actually good to sleep with your dog? Let’s dig into the research.
Benefits of Sleeping with Your Dog
1. Emotional Comfort and Stress Reduction
Co-sleeping with dogs can promote feelings of safety, comfort, and emotional security. Studies show that interacting with pets boosts oxytocin and reduces cortisol—two hormones that help regulate stress (Sleep Foundation, 2021). For people dealing with anxiety, depression, or loneliness, having a dog nearby during sleep can reduce nighttime distress and increase emotional support.
2. Strengthened Human–Animal Bond
Sleeping together can strengthen the emotional attachment between dogs and their humans. The American Kennel Club (AKC) notes that for many people, co-sleeping deepens the sense of connection and mutual trust, which can improve overall well-being (AKC, 2022). Historically, dogs have shared sleeping spaces with humans for warmth and protection.
Drawbacks of Sleeping with Your Dog
1. Sleep Disturbance
While cuddling with your dog sounds sweet, research shows mixed results on sleep quality. A 2015 Mayo Clinic study found that people who shared a bed with their dogs experienced lower sleep efficiency -especially if dogs moved frequently during the night (Krahn, Tovar, & Miller, 2015). Even if you don’t consciously notice it, nighttime movement can interrupt deep sleep stages.
2. Allergies and Hygiene Issues
For people with pet allergies—or undiagnosed sensitivities—co-sleeping can worsen symptoms due to prolonged exposure to dander and allergens. Dogs can also track dust, pollen, and outdoor bacteria into the bed (Healthline, 2020), even if they’re clean.
3. Health and Zoonotic Concerns
There’s a small but real risk of zoonotic disease transmission when co-sleeping with pets. Dogs may carry bacteria, fungi, or parasites that can be transferred through licking or contact with open wounds (Healthline, 2020). This is especially important for children, elderly individuals, or anyone with a compromised immune system.
Expert Opinions
Veterinarians and sleep specialists are cautious (but not opposed) to co-sleeping as long as both the pet and the owner are healthy.
Dr. Ann Hohenhaus of the Animal Medical Center in NYC states:
“Sleeping with your pet is an important ritual for many people. It doesn’t need to be avoided if both pet and owner are healthy.”
(PetMD, 2013)
The CDC doesn’t have an official stance but recommends vaccinations, flea/tick control, and parasite prevention to minimize health risks (CDC, 2021).
Statistics and Trends
Sleeping with pets is more common than you might think. According to a 2022 AASM survey:
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53% of Gen Z respondents sleep with their pet
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Only 36% of Baby Boomers do the same (AASM, 2022)
Among children, co-sleeping is also common. A 2021 study in Sleep Health found that 34.6% of children reported sometimes or often sleeping with a pet -with no major sleep disruptions noted (Smith et al., 2021).
How to Make Co-Sleeping More Comfortable (for You and Your Dog)
If you decide to share your bed with your pup, these tips can help keep it cozy and healthy -for both of you.
🛏️ Create a Designated Spot for Your Dog
Place a small bed, blanket, or mat at the foot or side of your bed. This allows closeness without overcrowding.
🐾 Keep Your Dog Clean
Brush regularly, bathe when needed, and clean paws after walks to reduce allergens (Healthline, 2020).
🦴 Maintain a Bedtime Routine
Dogs love routine. Potty breaks, calming treats, and low lighting signal it’s time to sleep (AKC, 2022).
🐶 Use a Pet Ramp or Steps
For smaller or older dogs, a ramp or steps make getting in and out of bed safer and easier.
🌬️ Monitor Temperature
Dogs run warmer than humans. Use breathable bedding and keep the room cool to avoid overheating.
🌙 Train Basic Sleep Etiquette
If your dog paws, whines, or moves around, use positive reinforcement to encourage calm bedtime behavior.
🧼 Wash Bedding Frequently
Wash your sheets and your dog’s bedding weekly to remove dander, hair, and bacteria (CDC, 2021).
Conclusion: Should You Sleep with Your Dog?
It depends.
If you’re both healthy and sleeping well, co-sleeping can be a comforting routine. But if you deal with allergies, restless sleep, or medical conditions, giving your dog their own bed might be better.
Practical Tips for Safe Co-Sleeping:
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Keep your dog clean and groomed
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Maintain a flea/tick prevention plan
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Wash bedding regularly
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Monitor your sleep quality - adjust if needed
Like any relationship, healthy boundaries make for better rest.
References
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American Academy of Sleep Medicine. (2022). Is Fido a bed hog or a cuddle buddy?
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American Kennel Club. (2022). Should I let my dog sleep with me?
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Healthy pets, healthy people
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Healthline. (2020). Sleeping with dogs: Benefits for your health, risks, and precautions
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Krahn, L. E., Tovar, M. D., & Miller, B. (2015). The effect of dogs on human sleep in the home sleep environment. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 90(12), 1663–1670. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2015.07.019
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PetMD. (2013). Is it safe to sleep with your pet?
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Sleep Foundation. (2021). Should you let your dog sleep in your bed?
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Smith, M., Etindele Sosso, F. A., & Knäuper, B. (2021). The effects of pet–human co-sleeping and bedsharing on sleep. Sleep Health, 7(3), 273–280. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleh.2021.03.005