Letting Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed vs. a Dog Bed: What’s Best for Your Pet?
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LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE: YOUR BED OR A DOG BED
Debate is ongoing about whether or not it’s OK for dogs to sleep with their human guardians in the same bed, or whether your pet pooch should have their own dog bed. At the end of the day, when it comes to you and your dog’s sleeping preference, there doesn’t seem to be a right or wrong answer. It’s very much up to the individual dog and dog owner. In a survey, “more than a quarter of Brits [said] that sleeping with their dog [improved] their mental wellbeing”, and that “almost half of Brits share a bed with their dog”. This might be a bone of contention (pun intended) between sleeping partners, and, what’s actually best for your dog? Well, it depends... So, let’s explore the different opinions and statistics around which is better for a good night’s sleep for both you and your dog – your bed or a dog bed. But, remember that co-sleeping with animals is not a new phenomenon – far from it. In fact, dogs and humans have been sleeping in the same space together for centuries.
It’s a dog’s life
Did you know that the average dog sleeps for between 12 and 14 hours each and every day? That’s a lot more than even the sleepiest teenager! However, 75% of this is thought to take place at night, with most dogs sleeping roughly 9 hours each night - not too dissimilar to most humans.
That’s an average though, as puppies and senior dogs sleep a lot more in 24 hours – 18 to 20 hours, in fact. Adult dogs sleep for 8 to 12 hours.
Lots of factors influence how much sleep a dog actually needs though, such as the breed, age, diet and activity level of an individual dog.
Canine night-time sleep could be in one of a variety of settings too – a dog crate, a dog bed, or your bed.
We’re going to look at dog beds first.
What kind of dog bed is best for dogs?
The “best” type of dog bed really does depend on your dog's needs. Orthopaedic dog beds are ideal for older or joint-sensitive dogs. Robust, chew-resistant dog beds are more suited to dogs who are aggressive chewers. Cave dog beds provide a comfortable safe haven for your dog to relax in and feel safe whilst they sleep, and smaller, softer, nest-like beds provide snuggly comfort for smaller dog breeds.
And, a dog bed doesn’t have to be expensive, although you can really push the boat out and spend big when it comes to buying your beloved hound’s dog bed. A designer dog bed from Celine (https://www.celine.com/en-gb/celine-maison/dog-accessories/dog-matress-in-smooth-calfskin-4M3923AOR.04LU.html) costs an eye watering £5100!
An elevated wooden dog bed hand made in the UK from solid English Oak (https://www.berkeleydogbeds.co.uk/products/wooden-dog-beds) will set you back at least £360 for a small to medium sized one, increasing to £430 for one big enough for a large dog breed.
At the cheapest end of the scale, you could spend as little as £15 on a budget dog bed, but the old adage is true – you absolutely get what you pay for, and buy cheap and you may well end up buying twice, and doing your dog a disservice as well.
Here at Maisey Daisey, we have a wide range of dog beds in our collection. They start at from £25.99 for a Battersea Playful Slumber Dog Bed (https://maiseydaisey.com/products/battersea-playful-slumber-dog-bed) and go up to around £150 for the largest dog bed in our range, which is the XL-sized Bolster Dog Bed with removable hood.
What specific bed the dog needs depends on the dog's size and their health, and their sleeping style. Some dogs have joint issues so it's best to have a nice cushy supportive extremely comfy orthopaedic doggie bed. Truth be told, a high-end pet bed will more than likely provide better support for your pet pooch's joints and muscles, which is especially important for older dogs or those with health issues. These beds often use top-quality materials that last longer and are better than cheaper options. They may even end up saving you money in the long run – either in vets bills or the false economy of buying a cheaper option but having to replace it soon after.
You may need more than one dog bed, and different types of dog bed for different situations and locations. That said, you don't have to have a dog bed in every room, and one for outside too for good measure. We mean, you could, but you don’t have to.
It's generally a good idea to have at least one bed in the areas where your dog spends the most amount of time, which could be the living room and bedroom, or conservatory or kitchen. Additional beds can provide comfort and options, especially if you and your dog spend a lot of time outdoors.
Waterproof dog beds (https://maiseydaisey.com/collections/waterproof-dog-beds) with stain resistance protect against wear and tear from muddy paws and water damage from a wet coat.
High-quality, and easy to wipe clean, our range of waterproof dog beds are made from 600 Denier PVC backed Polyester fabric. This means that our waterproof beds for dogs are not only waterproof, but dirt, hair, odour, tick and flea resistant as well.
But, even the most durable dog bed doesn't last forever. Eventually, every dog bed reaches the end of its usable life, no matter how much it costs.
So, how often should you replace your dog’s bed...
How often does a dog bed need replacing?
A good-quality, well-made dog bed will need replacing at least every two years or so. However, a more cheaply made option may well need replacing as often as once a year.
The Country Living website (https://www.countryliving.com/uk/wildlife/pets/a43231682/dog-bed-needs-replacing/) suggests giving your dog’s favourite sleeping spot a thorough visual inspection:
“Even if your dog's bed looks like it's still in good shape, it's worth taking a closer look. Check the underneath for mould and mildew, look for tears in the cover and press a hand into the top and sides to test plumpness. Make sure to strip off any protective covers and inspect it in good light – you'll be surprised what you've missed when passing it each day.”
Good advice.
The article goes on to say:
“If you take a good look, most people can recognise whether or not their dog’s bed is ready for retirement. If no amount of plumping, airing or washing will rejuvenate it, then it’s time for a change – if it looks bad, imagine how uncomfortable it is.”
One size does not fit all
When it comes to dog beds, one size (and shape) does not fit all.
If you have a smaller dog that loves to sprawl out when sleeping, you may want to consider a bigger bed.
If you have a larger dog that loves to curl up in a tiny ball, you may want to get a smaller bed. It all depends on your dog's sleeping needs and sleeping style.
As we’ve just seen, how quickly your dog bed wears out also depends on size – but the size of the dog this time. And weight, too.
Larger dogs will generally wear out dog beds quicker than smaller breeds, given their relative size, and big dogs also need more cushioned and supportive dog beds to help look after their bones and joints. So, how often you replace your current dog bed is also dependent to a greater or lesser extent on the size of your dog. If you have a large dog you will probably need to replace their dog bed more frequently than if you have a small dog.
Getting the right size dog bed for the size and weight of your dog is key – ranging from Small to Extra Large (XL).
Dog bed care
Taking good care of your dog’s bed will extend its useful life. Sympathetic washing will help keep it clean and hygienic, with most modern washing machines able to cope with dog beds. At the very least, make sure that the dog bed you choose has a removable and machine-washable cover, so that can be washed on the appropriate cycle.
So, you’ve got one or more dog beds, but where is the best place to put them?
The best place to put a dog bed
According to the RSPCA, their advice is to “put the bed somewhere warm and draught-free and give your dog options. You could place one bed in a quiet part of the house where they can rest undisturbed, and one in a room where the family spends time so they can be in your company while relaxing or snoozing in a comfortable spot.”
So, again, yes - more than one dog bed, but by no means a dog bed in every room. Two will suffice.
Do dogs prefer beds or floors?
In practice, dogs will often choose their bed over any other surface. But, if allowed up onto your sofa, that can be another favoured spot. In fact, we stock Settee Dog Beds, so having your dog on the sofa or settee doesn’t have to be an issue.
A dog might choose to sleep on the floor over a dog bed for a number of reasons, including the fact that their dog bed just isn’t that comfortable anymore (as we’ve seen earlier), or their bed simply doesn't match their preferred sleeping style.
A Wayfair article on choosing the right dog bed categorises sleeping styles into the following four tendencies – Sprawlers, Curlers, Burrowers and Leaners:
“Sprawlers: Dogs who love to stretch in all directions are considered sprawlers. They like to use the entire surface of the bed and take up lots of room. Some dogs like to sleep sprawled out on their side, especially in warmer climates, because exposing their belly can help them cool off. The best beds for them are a rectangular pillow bed or a roomy pad.”
“Curlers: Curling up in a ball is a common sleeping style for most dogs, harkening back to their roots when they were wild and had pack mentality. They would curl up in a ball to conserve their body heat and protect themselves from any predators, hiding away their vulnerable organs. Dogs who love to fall asleep curled up may prefer a smaller, oval, round, or bolster bed.”
“Burrowers: Burrowers love to dig in and go under the covers. They like to make a cozy nest, creating that cave feel. You may notice that burrowers love to sleep with you in your bed, burrowing under your blankets. The best beds for them are hooded or domed dog beds.”
“Leaners: Leaners love to rest their heads against something and love the feeling of support, making bolster beds the perfect option for leaners. You can also opt for a dog sofa.”
We leave the last word on dog beds to the RSPCA (https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/environment/dogbeds), who say, “Dog beds come in many different shapes and sizes. Each dog will have their preferences, but it's always best to give them a couple of options - that way you can be sure they'll always be comfy.”
“Round or oval beds with a side are great for when your dog wants to curl up. Mattress beds can be good for lying flat. Box beds or others with a side allow your dog to really cosy down - these can help keep them warm and protected from any draughts. Other beds might be better in summer when your dog may want to stay cooler.”
But, given the choice, and an invitation, as well as sleeping in their dog bed during the day, dogs are likely to choose to snooze on or in your bed at night.
So, that begs the question - what’s so bad about dogs sleeping on or in beds anyway?
Why do some owners not allow their dog onto their bed?
Some dog owners don’t allow their dog onto or in their bed (or onto their sofa either, for that matter). There’s a compelling reason for this, besides being house proud. When dogs go outside, dust and pollen clings to their fur and this can exacerbate human allergies. They might transfer that dander, pollen, and dust onto the bed coverings, which makes the allergic effects linger a long time after the dog leaves the bedroom.
There are some health and hygiene concerns related to co-sleeping with your dog, it’s true. As well as allergies, there’s also the risk of transmission of disease, from both the dog to the human and vice versa. However, such transmission is really pretty rare. And, as far as hygiene goes, dog hair aside, is having a dog in your bed any different to co-sleeping with a young child? So, what are the considerations for letting your dog sleep in your bed?
Considerations for letting your dog sleep in your bed: grooming, washing, comfort and preparedness
As a Barc London website article (https://www.barclondon.com/blogs/dog-training-behaviour/should-my-dog-sleep-in-my-bed) from 2022 says:
“Regular dog grooming: If you let your dog sleep in the bed, it’s important to keep on top of its coat care. Brushing will help to reduce the amount of hair that ends up on your bedding, while using quality dog grooming products can help keep your pup’s coat smelling and feeling fresh.”
“Wash bed linens frequently: To prevent a build-up of fur and dust, which can trigger human allergies, you should take the time to regularly wash your bedding to avoid having a lasting effect.”
“Make sure your dog is comfortable: You should never force your pup to sleep in your bed if it shows signs of wanting to leave, such as trying to jump down. You should also be mindful of your dog’s health, including issues like arthritis and weakened bladders.”
“Be prepared for occasional disturbances: As when you co-sleep with anyone, there could be times when you wake up as a result of movement. For example, if you roll over towards your dog in the night, it may react to being startled.”
Research into how and why some owners share a bed with their dog
An article on the Beagle Street website (https://www.beaglestreet.com/blog/more-than-a-quarter-of-brits-say-that-sleeping-with-their-dog-improves-their-mental-wellbeing/) suggests that “more than a quarter of Brits say that sleeping with their dog improves their mental wellbeing”, that “almost half of Brits share a bed with their dog” and other interesting findings...
Their survey revealed that “almost half of UK dog owners (48%) go to sleep at night with their dog in the bed. 22% of those sleep on their own with their pooch, whereas 17% manage to find the space to share their bed with not only their dog but their partner too!”
And that the “remaining 9% said that their dog sleeps in the bed with a family member.”
The age of the respondents in the survey also led to some interesting statistics.
The study highlighted that it’s “those between the ages of 25 and 34 (41%) who are choosing to sleep with their canine companions compared to any other age bracket.”
And, “over a quarter (26%) of over 55’s said they prefer to sleep on their own with their dog, whilst only 10% said they sleep with their dog and their partner in the bed.”
It also revealed that gender is a factor too, finding that “women (41%) are more likely to share a bed with their dog compared to men (37%).”
But why are we Brits sleeping alongside our dogs in the first place?
The reason people sleep alongside their dogs
The reason Brits are sleeping alongside their dogs include:
- 54% said they want their dog to be comfortable
- 51% said they like their dog being close
- 35% said it reduces stress
- 33% said it makes them feel safe
- 33% said their dog keeps them warm
All fair enough, really. Comfort and safety were both significant reasons why we Brits are choosing to sleep next to our dogs, but the study also revealed that “improving mental wellbeing (28%) and easing loneliness (22%) were also important factors”.
This seems particularly prevalent in those under 45, with “Over a third of 16- 24-year-olds (35%) and 25-34-year-olds (36%) [saying] that they sleep with their dog because it reduces stress and over a quarter of those aged 35 to 44 [saying] that it improves their mental health”.
What about the older generations – the over 55s?
“One in five (20%) of those over 55 said they sleep with their dog because it makes them feel less lonely, emphasising how dogs can be the perfect companion for those looking for some company”.
Indeed.
A Summer 2024 survey found that an even higher percentage of the UK’s pet owners let them onto or into the bed.
According to Companion Life (https://www.companionlife.co.uk/new-research-reveals-78-of-pet-owners-share-their-bed-with-their-dog/):
“Research from Rover.com has today revealed that a whopping 78% of the nation’s pet owners share their bed with their dog, with 47% even admitting to tucking them in under the covers.”
19% of the Brits surveyed said that “they’ve kicked their partner out of the bedroom to make room for their pooch, or have even gone to sleep elsewhere because their dog was hogging the bed (22%).”
With large breed dogs also sharing a bed with an owner, the survey said that “nearly a third (29%) of Brits [bought] a bigger bed to accommodate their four-legged friends”.
Even if the half of the owners in the research “initially tried to implement a no-dogs-on-the-bed rule”, “nearly a third (31%) gave in... within just a month of getting their pooch”.
Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist, said:
“Sleeping in the same bed as our dogs can bring benefits for both people and pooches. For example, in cases where a dog has separation anxiety, this might help to limit any stress at night whilst you work through this issue initially during the day – while also helping to strengthen your bond.”
But, with caveats:
“However, there are some things you may want to consider, from hygiene to the age of your dog, and their ability to get on and off a bed, especially if they are a large breed who cannot be lifted by their owner. Most importantly, we must ensure we are putting our dog’s needs above our own – while we might like the idea of a night-time cuddle, that doesn’t always mean our dog does! Therefore, it’s important to consider whether your dog is truly able to settle and feel comfortable in this space.”
And, in conclusion:
“But all in all, if bedsharing with your dog makes you both happy, and you’re both able to get the rest you need, then there is no real reason not to indulge in this.”
10 pet sleeping positions
Country Living (https://www.countryliving.com/uk/wildlife/pets/a29794215/pet-sleeping-position/) mention the 10 pet sleeping positions that reflect how your pet sees you (and your partner if there’s two of you in the bed, with dog making three occupants at bedtime).
“If you [do] let your pet sleep in bed with you, you'll be no stranger to how they like to snuggle up. In fact, experts claim that we can learn a lot about the bond we share with our pets by how they position themselves when sleeping next to us.”
You might well recognise one of the 10 from the list, which are:
- The Faithful
- The Knee Nuzzle
- The Donut Divider
- The Wall
- The Pillow Bandit
- The Under-Cover Lover
- The Cuddle Bug
- The Sneak
- The Superhero
- The Octopus
The list, with illustrations to show the different positions, ranges from sleeping positions where the dog is being cute and feels safe, which make you go “ahh”, through to ones where the dog is taking full advantage of the bed and monopolising the space.
If any of the sleeping positions match up to your own experience of sharing your bed, because you regularly snooze with your dog or cat in tow, then you're not alone. Studies have revealed that more than half of all pet owners (56%) let their pets (dogs and cats) sleep in the bedroom with them at night.
According to a 2021 survey by Dogs Trust, 47% of UK dog owners share a bed with their dog. Other surveys have found similar results, with 48% of UK dog owners sharing a bed with their dog according to one survey, but a whopping 78% of pet owners doing so according to the responses from another.
The Dogs Trust National Dog Survey 2021 (UK) was a large poll, with over 231,000 UK dog owners completing it. Other notable findings from it where that 55% of first-time UK dog owners share a bed with their dogs, and Welsh dog owners are the most likely to share a bed with their dogs (50%).
So, we hope that we’ve helped clear a few things up, but the debate goes on. Don’t forget that co-sleeping with animals is not a new phenomenon – dogs and humans have slept in the same space together for centuries, and that won’t change any time soon.
Lastly, we don’t sell beds, but we do sell dog beds. And dog mattresses. And dog blankets. But, confession time – we share the bed we sleep in with our four rescue dogs. So there you go.