Does Your Dog or Cat Sleep in Your Bed?

Sharing your bed with a pet is more common than some might think. According to studies, about half of pet owners sleep in bed with their pets. It might start as a one-time thing, but before long, you could find yourself making room for paws and whiskers every night.

Who Sleeps More: Cats or Dogs?

If it feels like your pet is always napping, you’re not wrong. Cats generally sleep more than dogs, often clocking 12 to 16 hours a day, sometimes even more. It’s part of their instinct to conserve energy between bursts of activity.

Dogs sleep a lot too, typically around 12 to 14 hours daily, with puppies and seniors needing more. Unlike cats, dogs tend to sync their sleep with their humans, especially if they’re sharing your bed.

In short, cats sleep more, but both species are pretty committed to their rest routines.

Why Pets Love Your Bed

Your bed is warm, soft, and filled with the comforting scent of their favorite human. Pets are drawn to this environment for the same reasons you are.

For dogs, sleeping near their people taps into a natural pack instinct. It makes them feel secure and connected. Cats, often more independent, still seek warmth and familiarity. Your bed offers both.

Co-sleeping also supports the bond between you and your pet. Being close during rest can reduce anxiety and promote a stronger sense of attachment, especially in rescue animals or those adjusting to a new home.

Is It Safe to Sleep with Your Pet?

In general, sleeping with a healthy, well-groomed pet is safe for most people. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Pets can carry allergens, dirt, or parasites like fleas or ticks into your bed. Regular grooming and parasite prevention help limit these risks. If you have allergies or a weakened immune system, it might be better to keep your pet in a separate sleeping space.

Sleep quality is another important factor. Some pets move around a lot or snore, which can disturb your rest. Light sleepers or those with insomnia may benefit from keeping bedtime separate.

The Pros of Co-Sleeping with Pets

For many people, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Here are some reasons pet parents choose to share their bed:

Pets often act as calming companions. Their steady breathing or gentle purring can be soothing.
Especially for those who work long hours, nighttime may be the best chance to spend quality time with their pet.
Studies have shown that physical closeness with pets can lower cortisol levels, leading to reduced stress and even lower blood pressure.
Pets are cozy, natural heaters. In colder months, they can make your bed feel even more inviting.

Despite the upsides, there are a few reasons you might choose to set boundaries:

Pets that twitch, stretch, or snore can interrupt your sleep cycle. Cats in particular are prone to nighttime activity.
In some cases, co-sleeping can lead to possessiveness or territorial behavior, especially in dogs.
Pets walk through the world on their paws. Even with regular baths, outside pets might track dirt or germs into your bed.
Dander can accumulate in bedding and trigger allergy symptoms, even in people with mild sensitivities.

Should I Let My Pet Sleep with Me? What the Experts Say

Veterinarians and animal behaviorists tend to agree: if everyone is healthy and happy, co-sleeping can be perfectly fine.

The key is to watch for changes in behavior or health, both yours and your pet's. If either of you start having issues with sleep, allergies, or aggression, it might be time to revisit the arrangement.

For puppies or kittens, it can be helpful to establish boundaries early. That doesn’t mean the bed is off-limits forever, but it gives you more control over the habit later on.

Training a pet to sleep in a designated bed beside yours is a great compromise that keeps them close without sharing the same space.

Making It Work: Tips For Sleeping with Your Pet

Sharing your bed with a pet can be comforting, but it also comes with a few considerations. If you’ve decided that co-sleeping is right for you and your animal companion, a few small changes can make a big difference in keeping everyone comfortable.

Start by making cleanliness a habit. Washing your bedding regularly helps cut down on allergens and germs, and keeps things fresh, especially if your pet sheds or tracks in dirt.

Using a lint roller or pet hair remover can help manage fur between washes. Staying on top of preventive care is also key: routine flea, tick, and heartworm protection keeps both you and your pet safer and healthier.

A consistent bedtime routine can go a long way. When your pet knows what to expect, they’re more likely to settle down when you do. Designating a specific spot for them (like a blanket or a small bed at the foot of yours) can create structure without sacrificing closeness.

And finally, keep an eye on behavior. If your pet starts guarding the bed, becomes restless, or seems anxious during the night, it’s worth checking in with your vet or a trainer to get ahead of any potential issues.

If you love being close to your pet but can’t share your bed for health or sleep reasons, there are alternatives that still promote bonding with your cat or dog.

One simple option is placing a pet bed in your bedroom. This lets your dog or cat stay close without taking up your sleeping space. Dogs that feel safe in their crate may also benefit from sleeping in one nearby; many view it as their own cozy retreat.

Cats often prefer elevated spots, so a heated bed or perch placed near your bed can give them that sense of security and warmth they enjoy.

And if nighttime cuddling is off the table, consider carving out extra bonding time in the evening with a short walk, a gentle play session, or some quiet petting before lights out.

Does Your Pet Sleep in Your Bed?

Whether your pet sleeps in your bed or in their own cozy spot, what matters most is that you both feel comfortable, safe, and well-rested. There’s no single right answer.

Every pet and every household are different. The best choice is the one that supports your well-being and strengthens your connection with your furry companion. After all, the best sleep is the kind where everyone wakes up happy, on two legs or four.