Think sleeping Next To Your Dog Helps You Rest?

Sleeping with your dog in the same room may be affecting your sleep more than you realize. A study of more than 1,500 American adults, published in Scientific Reports, found that people who co-slept with pets reported poorer sleep quality and more insomnia symptoms than those who didn’t.

Interestingly, 93% of pet owners who co-slept believed their pets had a positive or neutral effect on their sleep, showing that our perception doesn’t always match what’s happening overnight.

Why can dogs disrupt sleep?

• They move frequently. Shifting positions, shaking, scratching, or jumping on and off the bed can cause brief awakenings, even if you don’t remember them.

• They make noise. Snoring, panting, licking, or barking can interrupt your sleep.

• Their schedule is different. Many dogs wake earlier than humans or get up during the night to investigate sounds.

• Your brain stays alert. Even while asleep, many people subconsciously respond to their dog’s movements or noises, making it harder to stay in deep, restorative sleep.

That doesn’t mean you need to banish your pup from the bedroom but if you’re struggling with sleep, your four-legged roommate could be one factor worth considering.
Lana Backman