where should your dog sleep

Where Should Your Dog Sleep?

The dog is sleeping peacefully, gently breathing in and out. Every once in awhile, her whiskers twitch, her eyes dart back and forth under their lids, and her feet jerk as if she’s chasing squirrels in her dreams. Then, her ears, nose, legs and tail – which seem to never stop moving when she is awake – surrender to stillness and the comfort of…her blanket? Her bean bag? Her crate? The sofa? Your bed?

Your adult dog spends about 12 hours of her day — half her life — sleeping. Where she sleeps is important to her emotional and physical health, as well as to your family’s.

Most indoor dogs sleep at the foot or side of their owner’s bed, on a favorite blanket, cushion or dog bed, placed in a warm part of the room away from drafts. It’s normal for a dog to nap in the master bedroom when your house is empty during the day because it smells like you. She also may enjoy several “secondary” dog beds in other rooms, where family members like to congregate. Or, she might prefer her crate, a retreat where she can enjoy the privacy of the den that doggy natures crave.

Nightshirts, Beans, and Sheepskin

If you use your imagination, there are as many kinds of dog beds as there are dogs. Internet sites, pet stores and pet-supply catalogs are filled with them. They come in styles and at prices that can satisfy the most humble dog owner or cater to last week’s newest millionaire. Here are some examples:

Her Bed vs. Your Bed

Should your dog be allowed to sleep in your bed, with or without you? Probably not. If you decide to let her share your personal retreat, be prepared to deal with all sorts of dominance situations that can occur. Consider these examples: