Even if you’ve created an area in your living room or other part of your home where your dog can sleep, allowing them to sleep with you in your bedroom is a wholly different experience. Knowing that your pup is nearby, catching Zs with you, can help you feel safer and more relaxed at night. Similarly, if you have a “Velcro” dog, they’ll likely be able to cherish every second they spend near you, strengthening the bond you two share.
All the same, there are some unique challenges that come with sharing a bedroom with your dog as opposed to letting them sleep elsewhere in your home. Before you deck out your dog’s rest corner with a dog bed, custom dog blankets, and pillows, here are some important things that you should know:
The Upsides of Sharing Your Bedroom with Your Dog
Dogs are known for their loyalty and affection. Having them close by at night can be incredibly reassuring. The mere presence of your furry friend can help ease any anxieties you have and make it easier for you to drift off to sleep. Moreover, dogs often exhibit a calming influence. As such, having your dog in your bedroom can lead to better relaxation and improved sleep quality on your part.
Canines also possess keener senses than humans, particularly when it comes to hearing and smell. If your dog senses an unfamiliar sound or detects an unusual scent, they are likely to react and alert you to potential intruders or other disturbances like fires. While not a replacement for a proper security system, dogs can allow their owners extra protection from things the latter can’t immediately sense themselves.
The Allergy Factor
However, one thing you should note if you allow your dog to stay with you in your bedroom is your susceptibility to allergies. Dogs shed dander and skin flakes, which can trigger allergic reactions in those who are naturally predisposed to them.
Sleep Disruptions and Space Limitations
Like humans, dogs also observe their own sleeping patterns and habits. Some dogs may be restless or active during the night, which can disrupt your sleep. Take note that a dog’s snores, habit of scratching around, or any sudden movements they make can wake you up or prevent you from falling into deep, restorative sleep.
If you allow your dog to share your bedroom, that also means that you’ll have limited space to yourself—which may be an issue if you live in a smaller property like an apartment unit. Staying with a large dog might make it challenging to move around comfortably in the bedroom, which may affect your overall comfort and even instigate tension between the two of you.
Additional Cleaning Responsibilities
Lastly, dogs can bring dirt, mud, or outdoor debris into your bedroom, thus potentially affecting the cleanliness and hygiene of the space. If you allow your dog into your sleeping space, you have to be ready to encounter paw prints on your bedding or carpets, shedded hair, and occasional accidents. You’ll have additional cleaning responsibilities for your room, like needing to vacuum the floor and wipe down surfaces to minimise allergens and odours.
Tips for a Successful Co-Sleeping Arrangement between You and Your Dog
That said, it can be quite rewarding for both you and your dog to share a bedroom, as long as you’re prepared. To ensure a successful co-sleeping arrangement, consider the following tips:
Set Clear Boundaries
Establish specific areas within your bedroom where your dog is allowed and where they are not. This helps create a structured environment and prevents your dog from wandering all over the bedroom and sticking their snout where they shouldn’t.
Designate a comfortable dog bed or crate in one corner of the room as your dog’s sleeping area, then furnish it with everything they’ll need for a good night’s rest. Being consistent about your zone and your dog’s zone and observing the boundary between them will ensure that your dog knows where to position themselves and not cause too much of a ruckus while you sleep.
Maintain a Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on routines, so it’s a good idea to create a bedtime routine for both of you that includes a short walk, some playtime, and then settling down for the night. Consistency in your schedule won’t make it hard to signal to your dog that it’s time to sleep, which will lead to a more peaceful night’s rest.
Practice Good Dog Grooming and Allergy Management
Regular grooming and brushing can help reduce shedding and minimize allergens in the bedroom. The end result is a healthier and more pleasant sleeping environment for you and your canine buddy. If you’re still worried about getting allergies, use allergen-resistant bedding and place an air purifier in your bedroom to help filter out allergens.
Consider the points raised above before you make any drastic changes to your sleeping arrangements and welcome your dog into your bedroom. These tips should guarantee many a good night’s sleep for both you and your dog and maintain a happy and strong relationship between the two of you.
