Sleeping with Your Dog?

If you are, you’re not alone. While this is a controversial topic of conversation, research tells us that nearly 50% of dog owners sleep in the same bed with their dog(s) and another 20% have the dog sleeping in the bedroom. One study of American dog owners says that 76% allow their dogs to sleep with them. 80% of single pet parents allow their dog to sleep with them, compared to 73% of married couples who do. Another study states that female pet parents report sleeping with their dog is common and comforting. When I read that, I sighed, because since divorcing earlier this year, I found the routine of walking Dulce, feeding her, playing with her, training her, and yes, allowing her to sleep with me, I referred to as comforting in a way I didn’t know I needed. I’m not entirely sure my “allowing” her is the right word; she didn’t give me a choice really. She’d curl up right next to me and that was that. I was grateful not to be edged off “my” side of a king-size bed most nights! Can you relate? Ultimately, I believe she wanted to be near me to comfort me and to feel safe by re-establishing her routine, given all the changes over the last few months. I love it when she rests her head on me and looks up with those big brown eyes, how could I possibly say no. Besides, she’s my foot warmer now.