Vet puts debate to bed on whether your family dog should sleep in yours

Dog owners often find themselves divided when it comes to bedtime routines. Some relish the comfort of their canine companion snuggled up beside them, while others prefer to keep theirpetsout of the bedroom due to concerns about boundaries, cleanliness, allergies or interrupted sleep.

However, a seasoned vet has shed some light on this matter. In an article for PetMD, Dr Sandra Mitchell provided crucial guidance on whether it's sensible to allow your dogin bed. She explained that there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, and the decision should be based on factors such as the dog's behaviour, breed, and the owner's personal needs and lifestyle.

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Sharing a bed with a dog can enhance the bond between owner and pet, providing comfort, warmth and a sense of security. Many owners also report that having their dog close by reduces anxiety and contributes to a soothing bedtime routine.

However, dogs are typically light sleepers and may wake frequently during the night, which could disturb their owner's sleep if they too are a light sleeper, reports the Express. Allergies can also worsen when dogs sleep in close proximity due to the accumulation of pet dander and allergens in bedding.

The expert recommends that pet owners ensure their dog is fully house trained, emotionally mature, and able to settle calmly through the night before inviting them into the bed. Establishing clear boundaries from the outset is crucial, and it's easier to begin with strict rules and soften them later than to try and break established habits.

The expert also suggests that dogs should have their own cosy and secure sleeping area, even if they're occasionally permitted on the bed.

This approach offers both the pet and owner greater flexibility in the long run. If situations alter, such as the emergence of allergies, a new partner moving in, or changes in a dog's health, transitions can be managed much more smoothly.

It's also vital to bear in mind potential health risks. Dogs can harbour intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks that can cause illnesses in humans. Sharing your bed with your dog heightens exposure to these parasites and vector-borne diseases, particularly for very young, elderly, or immune compromised individuals.

However, according to the Sleep Foundation, exposure to pets may also aid in building immunity in healthy individuals. To minimise risks, regularly groom yourpet, use a mattress protector, and frequently wash your bedding.

By taking into account your dog's temperament, training, and health, along with your own lifestyle and medical needs, you can make a decision that benefits both parties.