The Benefits of Sleeping with Your Dog
Sleeping with your dog at night can have a positive impact on both your physical and mental health. Research suggests that pet owners who share their bed with their dogs tend to wake up in a better mood, feel more rested, and have more energy and vitality compared to those without pets. However, the same benefits are not observed when it comes to sleeping with a cat.
Studies show that up to half of Britain’s estimated 13 million dog owners regularly share their beds with their pets. Many also allow their cats to curl up next to them during the night. Despite this, the evidence regarding the health benefits of sleeping with a pet is mixed.
Some research indicates that having a pet nearby can improve sleep quality by reducing stress and loneliness. On the other hand, other studies suggest that pets may disrupt nighttime rest, worsen allergies, and leave pet owners feeling drowsy and inattentive during the day.
A team of researchers from Chiba University in Japan conducted a study involving nearly 4,000 volunteers to investigate how sharing a bed with a pet affects overall well-being. One in ten participants reported having a cat or dog, and around 40% of these individuals admitted allowing their pets to sleep with them at night.
The volunteers were asked to complete a questionnaire sanctioned by the World Health Organisation to assess their health status. This involved agreeing or disagreeing with statements such as “I feel cheerful and in good spirits,” “I wake up feeling fresh and rested,” and “I feel active.”
The findings revealed that participants who slept with their dogs scored significantly higher in terms of well-being compared to non-dog owners or those who kept their pets out of the bedroom. However, no significant differences were found among those who slept with cats.
According to the results published in the journal Clocks And Sleep, experts believe one reason dogs seem to aid sleep more than cats is due to the “emotional security” that owners feel from their presence. People who co-sleep with their dogs may also be more likely to walk them regularly, which could contribute to improved well-being.
In their report on the findings, the researchers stated: “Increased physical activity might also contribute to enhanced wellbeing.”
Key Findings from the Study
- The study involved nearly 4,000 volunteers from Chiba University in Japan.
- Around 40% of pet owners allowed their animals to sleep in the same bed.
- Participants completed a WHO-sanctioned questionnaire to assess their health and well-being.
- Those who slept with dogs showed better scores in terms of mood, energy, and restfulness.
- No significant improvements were observed among those who slept with cats.
- Researchers suggest that emotional security and increased physical activity may explain the benefits of sleeping with dogs.
Why Dogs May Be Better Sleep Companions
There are several reasons why sleeping with a dog may provide more benefits than sleeping with a cat:
- Emotional Security: Dogs often offer a sense of comfort and safety, which can help reduce anxiety and promote better sleep.
- Physical Activity: Owners who sleep with their dogs may be more inclined to take them for walks, leading to increased exercise and improved overall health.
- Routine and Structure: Dogs typically follow a routine, which can help regulate sleep patterns and create a more consistent bedtime environment.
While cats may provide companionship, they do not appear to offer the same level of health benefits when it comes to sleep. This does not mean that cats are not valuable pets, but rather that their role in promoting restful sleep is less significant compared to dogs.
For those considering whether to let their pets sleep in the same bed, the evidence suggests that dogs may be a better choice for improving sleep quality and overall well-being. However, individual preferences and circumstances should also be taken into account.
