How close is too close when it comes to how we share our lives with the furriest members of the family? A study conducted by YouGov in 2023 found that almost half of British pet owners shared their bed with their pets. While the Australian Bureau of Australia found that more than half of Aussie owners invite their pets in for a nighttime cuddle.
Could having our pets under the covers with us help us drift away or could it be having negative impacts that last more than just the nighttime hours? Ashley Hainsworth from UK based Bed Kingdom says there are both benefits and potential risks when it comes to bunking with our pets.
The ups
Helps with insomnia
Sleeping alongside a loved pet can increase endorphin levels which help reduce anxiety and stress, this can mean you fall asleep faster.
Comfort and security
Spending the night with a pet in bed can increase a sense of security and comfort, especially for those who live alone. When we feel safe and relaxed our sleep quality can drastically improve.
Warmth
The body’s temperature plays an important role in getting quality sleep, if you are prone to feeling cold, cuddling close to a furry water bottle (or pet) might be just what you need.
Bonding
A loving and close relationship is what most of us strive to have with our pets and sharing the bed can strengthen that bond. You might discover that you can read your pet better and you are more in tune with each other’s needs, this can improve pet’s behaviour and increase their overall happiness.
The downs
Disturbed rest
Depending on the size of the bed you might be able to feel your pets every movement. Like all of us, animals will shift throughout the night and adjust their bodies to get comfortable, this may wake or disturb you. If you ae finding your sleep constantly disturb either get a bigger bed or direct the pet to their own.
Hygiene
There is a reason for the saying dirty dog, pets carry dirt and unwanted pests like fleas, ticks and lice in their furry coats. Dirt could flare up allergies and mess up your bed, ensure your pet is clean after they have gone outside. If you do choose to have your pet in the bed, it is advised to wash your sheets every three to four days.
Bad behaviour
Some behaviourists believe that sleeping in the same bed as your pet can lead to separation anxiety. Signs of separation anxiety include destructive behaviour, extreme vocalising when you leave- howling, barking or wining and toilet trained dogs relieving themselves inside. Consult a trainer, vet or behaviourist if you notice any concerns.
Sharing the bed with pets is beneficial for people who suffer for loneliness or sleeping issues but for those who like their personal space it is best to sleep apart.
“When deciding whether to let your pets share the bed, you should consider several different factors, such as your lifestyle, sleeping habits and your pet’s temperament. It has clear benefits, but the risks shouldn’t be disregarded either. Keep an eye on how things progress, but if sleeping with your pet works for you, that is the most important thing,” says Ms Hainsworth.
