Is it okay for your dog to sleep on your bed?

For many pet parents, letting your dog snuggle up in bed is a common practice. It’s cute, it’s cozy and it can strengthen your bond. That said, there are also some downsides to having your dog sleep in your bed. Let's break down the benefits, the drawbacks and the best ways to create a harmonious slumber party if you choose to go for it.

The benefits of sleeping with your dog

One of the biggest perks of sharing your bed with your pup is the emotional boost. The simple act of petting a dog can lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and affection. That cozy, secure feeling isn't just in your head; many people feel safer and less lonely with a canine companion by their side.

The steady, rhythmic breathing of a sleeping dog can also act as a natural sleep aid, providing a sense of calm that helps ease anxiety and lull you into a deeper slumber. It reinforces the human-animal bond, making both you and your dog feel more connected and secure.

Potential drawbacks of a dog in your bed

On the flip side, sharing your bed with a dog can sometimes disrupt your sleep. Dogs have different sleep cycles than we do. They are polyphasic sleepers, meaning they have several sleep-wake periods throughout the night. Their stirring, repositioning or hopping off the bed for a midnight drink can lead to more micro-awakenings for you.

Even if you don’t remember waking up, these small disturbances can fragment your sleep. You might find yourself cycling through the deeper, more restorative stages of sleep less often, which can lead to next-day fatigue. This can happen even with a small dog that snores or scratches, as any little sound or movement can pull you out of a deep sleep.

Health risks of having your dog in your bed

When you invite a dog into your bed, you’re also inviting everything on their fur. This includes dander (microscopic flecks of skin), which can be a major issue for people with allergies or asthma. Your dog's coat also acts like a fluffy magnet for outdoor allergens like pollen and mold spores, bringing them right onto your pillows.

Beyond allergens, there's also the matter of germs. “While the risk of disease transmission from a healthy, well-cared-for dog is low, it’s not zero. Regular vet check-ups, staying current on flea, tick and heartworm preventives and good hygiene practices are essential to minimize the health risks of having your dog in your bed,” says Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch’s Chief Veterinary Officer. “This is especially important for households with very young, elderly or immunocompromised people.”

Can co-sleeping cause behavioral issues for dogs?

Co-sleeping with your dog can sometimes contribute to behavioral challenges. For some dogs, the bed can become a high-value resource they feel anxious about losing, leading them to growl or snap to “guard” it. It can also sometimes worsen separation anxiety if a dog never learns to self-soothe or be comfortable alone.

Should you let your puppy sleep with you?

The question gets a little trickier with a new puppy. While the physical closeness can build a strong bond and help a puppy feel secure, there are significant downsides. The biggest is that it can cause major setbacks in house-training, as a puppy can easily have an accident in one corner of the bed and just move to another. There’s also a safety risk, as a small puppy could fall off or be accidentally injured by a sleeping person.

Tips for getting a good night's sleep with your dog in your bed

If the pros outweigh the cons for you, setting a few ground rules is the key to success. Here are a few tips to keep things peaceful while sharing a bed with your dog:

• Invitation only: Teach your dog that they’re only allowed on the bed when you give a clear cue, like patting the mattress and saying “up.” This frames the bed as a privilege, not a right.
• Teach an “off” command: It’s just as important to have a reliable command to get off the bed. Practice this during the day using positive reinforcement.
• Designate a spot: Have a specific blanket at the foot of the bed that is your dog’s designated area. This contains shedding to one spot and teaches them to respect your personal space.‍
• Keep it clean: Wash your bedding at least once a week in hot water and consider using a mattress protector. Wiping your dog’s paws before they jump into bed can also cut down on dirt and allergens. A HEPA filter in the bedroom can help capture airborne dander, too.