Where Should My Dog Sleep?
The question of where our furry friends should rest at night has been plaguing dog owners for centuries. Whether you’re bringing a new puppy home or adopting an older dog, sleeping arrangements can be a difficult decision for pet parents. Here are some tips for deciding where your dog should sleep at night.
Crates Can Feel Secure and Comfortable
Many dog parents shy away from crating because it can feel like you’re isolating or imprisoning your dog. However, dog crates are great training devices and can be perfect for puppies. Puppies learn to control their bladders and bowels in the crate and not all over your carpet or bed. They will also have a space of their own to go if they need comfort or solitude. Plus, you can make crates comfortable! Put their favorite toys and blankets inside for them to feel like it’s their own space. You may even consider leaving the crate by your bedside so you can reach your fingers in to provide some comfort for a sleepless pup. Crates are easy to transport and can help your dog feel like they have a home away from home.
Dog Beds
Getting your dog their own bed may feel like you’re spoiling them, but it can be extremely beneficial for some dogs. Dog beds are perfect for pooches who need their own space but are old enough to control their bladders and fussing. There are plenty of options for dog beds, from plush to firm and everything in between. You can also match them to home decor and place them anywhere in your house, so long as your dog is comfortable with the placement. Older dogs may have some difficulty climbing into your bed or a couch, so a dog bed is a great solution to this problem. Adding pillows and blankets will make their dog bed feel even more like their own comfort zone!
Sharing Your Bed
Sharing a bed with your dog may sound nice, but it’s not always easy! Dogs move, get up, and pant all throughout the night, so if you’re a light sleeper, you may find your sleep disrupted. Younger dogs tend to enjoy exploring at night, so don’t invite them into your bed if you’re worried about waking up. If your dog is well-trained and a decently peaceful sleeper, however, sharing a bed could be a great way to strengthen your bond of trust and companionship. Train your dog to sleep in a certain area of the bed, and they’ll accept their spot next to you. Just be aware that you may end up with dog hair all over the bed!
Free-Roamers
Some dogs genuinely just prefer roaming around the house at night and sleeping in various places. We recommend only allowing your dogs to do this once they are fully-grown adults; puppies will likely want to chew on things and get into all sorts of trouble. Giving your dog the freedom to roam the house will give them a sense of control and authority. Plus, you don’t have to worry about them hogging the bed! If your dog doesn’t seem satisfied with any of the other sleeping arrangements listed above, this could be the best option for them.
When it comes down to it, where your dog sleeps depends on both you and your dog’s comfort levels and what feels right for both of you. Every dog-human relationship is unique, so don’t force anything that feels uncomfortable. Sweet dreams!