Should Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed? The Love vs. The Risks

 

The Love of Sharing a Bed with Your Dog

There’s nothing quite like snuggling up with your furry best friend at bedtime. The warmth, the soft breathing, and that feeling of companionship. It’s comforting, soothing, and, let’s be honest, absolutely adorable.

Many pet owners say sleeping with their dog makes them feel safe, less lonely, and emotionally connected to their pup. Science even backs this up, dogs and humans who share close bonds experience an increase in oxytocin and dopamine, the feel-good hormones that reduce stress and deepen relationships.

For many, letting their dog curl up in bed is second nature. It feels like a special bonding moment, like having a living, breathing weighted blanket. But while it’s heartwarming, have you ever thought about whether it’s actually good for both you and your dog?

 

What You Might Not Expect: The Hidden Downsides

As much as we love those cuddles, co-sleeping with your dog comes with risks that many pet owners don’t think about.

• Interrupted Sleep: Dogs don’t have the same sleep cycles as humans. They move, stretch, dream (sometimes loudly), and wake up for little nighttime activities. These "micro-awakenings" can disrupt your deep sleep, leading to grogginess, lower energy, and even higher cortisol levels (the stress hormone).
• Joint & Mobility Issues: As dogs get older, jumping on and off the bed can take a toll on their joints. This is especially true for larger breeds or senior dogs prone to arthritis. Over time, this daily impact can cause discomfort and mobility problems.
• Allergies & Hygiene Issues: Even if your dog doesn’t shed much, allergens, dust, and pollen can accumulate on their fur and transfer onto your bed. This can cause allergic reactions, breathing issues, and a messier sleeping space.
• Behavioral Boundaries: Some dogs become territorial over the bed, leading to issues like bed guarding or excessive attachment. This can create long-term behavioral challenges, making it harder to establish clear boundaries in the home.

Comparing Two Sleeping Setups: Shared Bed vs. Dedicated Dog Bed

Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each setup:

Where Your Dog Sleeps	The Good	The Challenges
Sharing Your Bed	Strengthens bonding, provides emotional comfort, can help with anxiety	Sleep disturbances, hygiene concerns, potential behavioral issues, joint strain from jumping on/off
Sleeping in Their Own Bed	Encourages independence, better hygiene, orthopedic support for joints, prevents sleep disruptions	Requires training, adjustment period, less direct nighttime cuddles

 

The best option? A balance between companionship and healthy sleep habits. Having your dog nearby in their own designated bed gives them comfort while preserving sleep quality for both of you.

If You’re Looking for the Best Dog Bed, Meet Aella Bed

If you decide it’s time for your dog to have their own bed, not just any dog bed will do. Aella Bed is designed to be the gold standard in dog health and comfort, built with the same quality as human mattresses.

• Orthopedic Memory Foam: Provides superior joint support and relieves pressure points, ensuring your dog gets deep, restorative sleep.
• Certified Safe Materials: Made with Oeko-Tex® and CertiPUR-US® certified foam—free from harmful chemicals, just like the best human mattresses.
• Thoughtfully Designed: A non-slip base, washable covers, and breathable materials keep your dog comfortable while making life easier for you.
• Eco-Friendly & Durable: Designed to last over 10 years, preventing waste and staying supportive throughout your dog’s life.

Aella Bed gives your dog a safe, comfortable, and health-conscious sleeping space, so they can rest better, live healthier, and stay by your side for years to come.

Long-Term Health & Comfort: The Best for Your Dog

Creating healthy sleep habits is an investment in your dog’s future. Good sleep leads to better mobility, stronger immunity, and improved overall well-being. By setting up a designated sleep space now, you’re helping your pup stay comfortable, independent, and healthy for the long run.

Let your dog rest better, and they’ll live happier. Whether it’s for joint health, deeper sleep, or simply a cleaner sleeping environment, giving your pup their own supportive space is one of the best things you can do. And with Aella Bed, they’ll have a cozy, orthopedic-approved spot that stands the test of time.