Every dog needs a comfortable place to sleep, but determining where that should be is often a compromise between you and your furry friend. Whether your dog sleeps in your bed, on a dog bed, or in a crate, it’s essential to create a routine that helps them settle into a restful night. In this guide, we'll explore the best sleep options for your dog and how to choose the right one.
Should Your Dog Sleep in Your Bedroom?
It’s completely acceptable for most dogs to sleep in the owner's bedroom, as it can be rewarding for both the dog and the pet parent. Many dogs enjoy being near their humans, and having them in the same room can bring comfort. However, it's a personal preference, and you should consider the following:
- Improves your sleep: If having your dog nearby enhances your sleep, it's a great option.
- No allergies: Ensure you're not allergic to dog dander, which can accumulate over time and affect your health and sleep.
- Restful nights: If your dog’s presence disturbs your sleep, it may be time to reconsider where they rest.
Why You Might Avoid Sharing Your Room with Your Dog
If your dog’s sleeping habits disrupt your sleep, it might be better for both of you if they sleep elsewhere. A restless night impacts your dog’s energy levels just as much as it affects yours, so ensuring both of you are well-rested will improve your bond during waking hours.
Should Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed or on the Floor?
The debate over whether dogs should sleep on the bed or floor varies from household to household. Dogs that are calm sleepers may enhance your rest when they snuggle into bed with you. On the other hand, large or restless dogs that frequently shift positions could make sleeping difficult. In these cases, providing a comfortable dog bed on the floor may be a better choice.
Research backs this up: sleep quality was consistent whether the dog slept on the bed or floor. However, participants who let their dogs sleep on the floor had slightly better sleep efficiency than those with their dogs in bed.
Interestingly, a study found that women who slept with dogs in bed reported better sleep quality and a greater sense of security than those who slept with human partners or cats.
When Should Your Dog Sleep in the Bed?
It can be comforting and cozy to sleep alongside your dog, but it isn’t the best choice for every situation. Here are some signs your dog is ready to sleep in your bed:
- Housebroken and mature: Your dog should be fully house-trained.
- Moves easily: Your dog can adjust to different sleep spots without hesitation.
- No separation anxiety: Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety should avoid sleeping in your bed to prevent dependency issues.
Dogs that exhibit dominant behavior or separation anxiety should not sleep in your bed, as it can reinforce unwanted behaviors.
Crate vs. Dog Bed for Sleeping
The main difference between a crate and a dog bed is that crates create a den-like atmosphere, which can be calming for some dogs, while beds provide more comfort and flexibility in positioning. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each:
Crate Pros:
- Den-like space that feels safe and secure.
- Easy to relocate for travel.
- Helps prevent accidents and misbehavior.
Crate Cons:
- Can be noisy at night.
- May cause anxiety if not crate-trained.
Dog Bed Pros:
- Provides joint support and flexibility for movement.
- Quiet when your dog shifts position.
Dog Bed Cons:
- May allow the dog to wander and misbehave during the night.
Which Option Is Better: Crate or Dog Bed?
For younger dogs, crates are often better due to the added structure they provide, especially for training purposes. Older dogs or those with joint issues may benefit from an orthopedic dog bed that cushions their bones and provides extra support.
If your dog tends to move frequently in the crate, you can try placing the crate in a different room or give them a bed in the same room as you with a dog gate to limit movement.
Even if your dog prefers sleeping in a crate, they’ll still need a dog bed for daytime naps. Older dogs, in particular, require the support and softness of a high-quality dog bed.
Where Should Puppies Sleep?
Puppies should sleep in a crate near your bed to build a sense of security. The crate can be elevated to be level with the bed initially, then moved to the floor after a few nights. Crate training is highly effective for puppies because they typically avoid soiling their sleeping space, making it easier to house-train them.
Keep in mind that puppies will likely wake you at night until they are mature enough to sleep through without bathroom breaks.
Should Dogs Sleep Outside?
No dog should sleep outside, especially overnight. While some breeds tolerate extreme weather better than others, the risks posed by wildlife, temperature extremes, and other environmental factors outweigh any potential benefits. All dogs, particularly older or sick ones, should sleep indoors with their families.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, where your dog sleeps depends on what works best for both of you. Some dogs will thrive on a dog bed in your bedroom, while others may prefer the cozy confines of a crate. Regardless of your choice, ensure your dog has a comfortable, supportive spot where they can get the rest they need to stay happy and healthy. Your good night’s sleep is just as important, so make the decision that works best for your household and enjoy restful nights together.
