Sleeping With Your Dog: Key Points to Remember
It's completely safe to spend a pleasant night's sleep next to your dog. In fact, 56 percent of dog owners say they sleep next to their pets. But while many individuals like cuddling with their four-legged friends, there are some drawbacks.
This article will go through some key points to help you and your dog get a peaceful night’s sleep together.
Your Health
Some people are allergic to dogs. Extended contact with dogs exposes them to dander, which can cause respiratory problems. When dogs play outside, dust, pollen, and other pollutants easily stick to their fur. After spending time outdoors, clean your dog with a wet towel to minimize allergic reactions when sleeping with them. Additionally, taking your pet to a dog groomer, bathing them, utilizing HEPA filters in your house, and cleaning your bed linens regularly will help to limit your exposure to allergens.
Your Dog’s Health
Climbing on the bed might be difficult for your dog if they are older or if they have musculoskeletal problems such as arthritis. If they are small, you can lift them or set up a ramp or step near the bed if you cannot carry them.
Furthermore, elderly dogs may develop urinary incontinence. To mitigate this, you can purchase pee pads from your local pet supply store and place them on the bed to keep your sleeping space dry.
Parasites
Dogs may carry certain intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks. Consult your veterinarian for a year-round, broad-spectrum parasite control program that will protect both your dog and you from parasites and vector-borne diseases.
Size
When it comes to sharing a bed, size does matter. Big dogs take up a lot of space in the bed. So, if you want to have a good night's sleep, you may either train them to sleep at your feet or place a dog bed on the floor next to your bed.
Dog's Preference
Some canines find lying in a bed too hot and prefer to rest on a cold floor. Others prefer to switch sleeping locations many times a night, sleeping first on the kitchen floor, then on the bathroom mat, and last on the sofa. It's also crucial to understand what your dog desires.
Sleep Interruptions
If you are a light sleeper, most dog movements will likely wake you up. Some people can’t sleep because of their dog's excessive snoring. If you don’t sleep well at night, the rest of your day and even your week will be affected. In contrast, dogs do not suffer from sleep deprivation, so nightly interruptions are not a significant issue for them. Even if they had a rough night, they have time during the day to nap.
If sleep interruptions become a problem for you, you may train your dog to sleep at your feet. On the other hand, consider yourself fortunate if you are a heavy sleeper. If snuggling with your dog doesn't bother you, it can help you relax and sleep better at night by lowering blood pressure and stress levels.
Conclusion
Many look forward to cuddling up with their furry friends at night. There will always be various pros and cons when sleeping with a pet, most of which largely depend on each of your personalities and sleeping habits. But, for many people, the emotional benefits outweigh any disadvantages. It's all a matter of personal preference.
In the end, consider your health, your dog's health, and the quality of your sleep while evaluating the benefits and drawbacks. Also, consult a doctor or a veterinarian if your dog is having trouble sleeping through the night.
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