It Turns Out Sleeping with the Dogs Might Not Be So Bad After All
Many pet parents start out with a staunch, non-negotiable “no dogs allowed on the bed” rule. While a few dedicated owners stick to it, the vast majority eventually succumb to the power of puppy dog eyes, chilly winter nights, and the cozy promise of canine cuddling.
While personal preference ultimately dictates whether or not your dog gets to sleep under the covers with you, the scientific community has actually spent years debating the health benefits and drawbacks of co-sleeping with our pets. Is sharing your mattress ruining your sleep, or is it the secret to a stress-free night? Let’s dive into what the research actually says.
The Science of Canine Co-Sleeping
If you wake up feeling a bit groggy because your Golden Retriever was kicking you in their sleep, you aren't alone. In 2017, the Mayo Clinic Proceedings released a fascinating study investigating the correlation between sleeping with dogs and overall sleep efficiency.
The results probably won’t come as a surprise to pet owners who snooze with their four-footed brethren. The study found that people who slept with their dogs in the room (but on their own dog bed) maintained a highly restful 83% sleep efficiency. However, people who allowed their dogs directly in the bed experienced a slight drop to 80% sleep efficiency, largely due to micro-disruptions.
Let's face it: dogs like to rearrange themselves during the night, aggressively scratch their ears, occasionally check on you, and many of them snore louder than a freight train! But is that 3% drop in sleep efficiency a dealbreaker? For most pet parents, the psychological benefits far outweigh the physical disruptions.
The Psychological Perks: Security and Comfort
A recent, highly publicized survey published in the journal Anthrozoös reflected incredible insight into why we tolerate our dogs hogging the blankets. The study surveyed more than 900 women on their sleep habits and pets.
The results were incredibly telling. Survey respondents reported feeling significantly more comfortable and secure when sleeping next to their dogs compared to sleeping with a human partner or a cat! Dogs naturally operate as a comforting physical presence. Their steady breathing, warmth, and protective nature trigger the release of oxytocin (the "cuddle hormone") in human brains, which actively lowers cortisol levels and reduces nighttime anxiety.
Debunking the "Alpha" Behavior Myth
If you tell a friend you let your dog sleep in your bed, you might get unsolicited advice warning you that this will lead to "dominance" or behavioral issues.
Fortunately, the American Kennel Club (AKC) considers this an outdated urban myth. The idea that dogs are constantly trying to assert "alpha" dominance over their humans has been widely debunked by modern animal behaviorists. Allowing your dog to share your mattress will not suddenly make them think they own the house.
While some dogs do develop resource guarding (defending the bed aggressively when someone approaches), there is zero scientific evidence showing that allowing the dog into the bed actually caused the behavioral issue. If your dog guards the bed, they likely guard their food and toys, too, which requires positive-reinforcement training.
Ground Rules for Sharing the Bed
If you are going to invite your dog up for a snooze, establishing a few healthy boundaries will ensure everyone gets a good night's rest:
- The "Invite Only" Rule: Teach your dog that the bed is a privilege, not a right. Have them sit and wait for a command (like "up!") before they jump onto the mattress.
- Keep the Paws Clean: Dogs track pollen, dirt, and allergens into the house. Keep a pack of dog-safe wipes by the front door and wipe their paws before bed to keep your sheets clean and prevent allergy flare-ups.
- Tire Them Out First: A tired dog is a sleeping dog! If your pup is restless at night, they probably aren't burning enough energy during the day.
While scientific studies might shed light on the slight health detriments or massive psychological benefits of sleeping with your dog, they are highly unlikely to cause people to suddenly banish their furry sleeping companions to the floor. Ultimately, your bed is your own to share!
Is your dog keeping you up at night with their excess energy? A long, mid-day walk is the perfect solution for a peaceful night's sleep! The professional Chicago dog walkers at Sparky Steps are here to help tire out your pup while you're at work. Contact us today to schedule a walk!
Original author: Carrie Pallardy
Edited by the Sparky Steps Team (Last Updated: May 25, 2026)
