For many dog owners, bedtime includes one extra family member under the blankets. Some dogs curl up at their owner's feet, while others somehow manage to take over the entire bed. But is sleeping next to your dog actually a good idea?
We asked three veterinarians from TelaVets to share their thoughts on the benefits, downsides, and what pet owners should know before letting their dogs sleep beside them every night.
Why do dogs like sleeping next to their owners?
Dr. Nathan, DVM —
"Dogs are naturally social animals, so wanting to sleep near their owners is very normal behavior. In the wild, dogs and wolves sleep close to members of their pack for warmth, comfort, and protection. Even domesticated dogs still have that instinct. Sleeping next to their owner can make them feel safe and secure."
Dr. Stacey, DVM —
"A lot of dogs genuinely relax when they’re close to their people. I see this especially with puppies or anxious dogs. Sometimes hearing their owner breathe or feeling them nearby helps them settle down faster at night."
Dr. Adam, DVM —
“For many dogs, bedtime becomes part of their bonding routine with the family. Dogs thrive on routine and connection. If they’ve been allowed in the bed consistently, it becomes one of the ways they feel included and emotionally connected.”
Are there benefits to letting your dog sleep in bed with you?
Dr. Nathan, DVM —
"There can absolutely be emotional benefits. A lot of owners feel calmer and more relaxed sleeping next to their dog. Pets can reduce stress and provide comfort, especially for people who live alone or struggle with anxiety."
Dr. Stacey, DVM —
"I think for many families it strengthens the human-animal bond. Dogs are companions, and some owners simply enjoy that closeness. If both the owner and the dog are sleeping comfortably, there’s usually nothing wrong with it."
Dr. Adam, DVM —
“Some people actually sleep better with their dog nearby because it creates a sense of comfort or security. I’ve had clients say their dog helps them feel calmer after stressful days.”
Are there situations where dogs should not sleep in bed with their owners?
Dr. Nathan, DVM —
“If a dog is showing aggression, possessive behavior over the bed, or disrupting sleep significantly, it may not be a good idea. Owners should also be careful if the dog has fleas, parasites, or untreated skin conditions.”
Dr. Stacey, DVM —
“I’m more cautious when someone has severe allergies, asthma, or a weakened immune system. In those situations, having pets in the bed may worsen symptoms or increase health concerns.”
Dr. Adam, DVM —
“Some dogs become very dependent on sleeping with their owners and can struggle with separation or anxiety if routines suddenly change. It’s not necessarily harmful, but owners should make sure their dog can still relax independently when needed.”
Does sleeping together cause behavioral problems?
Dr. Nathan, DVM —
“The old idea that letting dogs on the bed automatically creates dominance issues is outdated. Most dogs can sleep in bed without any behavioral problems at all.”
Dr. Stacey, DVM —
“What matters more is overall training and boundaries. A well-trained dog that respects limits usually does perfectly fine sleeping with their owner.”
Dr. Adam, DVM —
“If a dog starts growling, guarding the bed, or becoming territorial, that’s when owners should address the behavior. But simply sleeping in bed alone does not cause bad behavior in most dogs.”
Should dogs still have their own bed?
Dr. Nathan, DVM —
“Yes, I always recommend dogs have their own sleeping space available, even if they’re allowed in the owner’s bed.”
Dr. Stacey, DVM —
“A separate dog bed gives them a quiet place to rest during the day and helps maintain flexibility if routines change later.”
Dr. Adam, DVM —
“Older dogs especially benefit from supportive orthopedic beds because they can help reduce pressure on joints and arthritis pain.”
So, is it okay to let your dog sleep with you?
Dr. Nathan, DVM —
“For most healthy, well-behaved dogs, yes — it’s perfectly fine.”
Dr. Stacey, DVM —
“It really depends on the dog and the owner’s comfort level. There’s no universal rule.”
Dr. Adam, DVM —
“If everyone is sleeping well, the dog is healthy, and there are no behavioral concerns, there’s usually no reason owners can’t enjoy sharing the bed with their pet.”
Pet owners with questions about their dog’s behavior, anxiety, sleep habits, or overall health can connect with licensed veterinarians through TelaVets from the comfort of home.
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