Let’s just go ahead and say it. dogs are amazing They are probably the best thing that ever happened to the human race and we are lucky to have them. So it’s no wonder that most of us want to sleep next to our four-legged friends. But before you invite your dog to sleep in your bed, there are some rules to follow to make it a safe and happy experience for everyone involved. Starting choosing the right bed pillows for humans and puppies To set boundaries and rules before bed, here are fifteen important tips for a safe and comfortable sleep with your dog.
1) Set a bedtime routine
Before letting your pup join you in bed, it’s important to establish a consistent bedtime routine so they know when to sleep. And making their routine yours is key to co-sleeping. This means that your dog needs to learn to be calm and quiet when you are both in the bedroom, which can only happen if he is properly trained and has the opportunity to use the toilet before bed.
2) Keep your dog clean
If you share a bed, it’s important to keep your pup clean and well-groomed. Not only is this better for their skin and fur, but it will also help keep any fleas or ticks away from your bed. Additionally, regular brushing and bathing will go a long way in ensuring that the co-sleeping experience with a fur baby is enjoyable for all involved. But don’t bathe your dog, as this can affect his fur’s natural oils and cause health problems.
3) Know your dog’s sleeping patterns
Track your dog’s sleep habits so you know what to expect and if it will work for you. For example, some dogs are early risers and wake up before you every morning, while others may sleep until noon. Knowing your pup’s natural sleeping patterns will help ensure that co-sleeping works for everyone involved.
4) Choose the right bedding
Invest in quality bedding designed for dogs and humans to share comfortably, such as pillows that are made with their comfort and safety in mind. Not only will this keep them comfortable, but it will also help protect you both from any allergies or skin irritation caused by cheaper materials.
5) Exercise your dog regularly
Exercise your dog regularly to ensure they get enough physical activity before going to bed, as this helps them fall asleep faster and sleep longer. If you can, try to make sure your dog gets plenty of activity during the day, such as walks or playing fetch, so he can settle down and relax after you both go to sleep.
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6) Designate a bed area for both you and your dog
Find an area of ​​the mattress or blanket that you and your pup can comfortably share without pushing each other or rolling over each other at night, which can interfere with sleep quality. You may also want to consider investing in a larger bed that has plenty of room for both of you.
7) Invest in a quality mattress
A good quality mattress that is ideal for co-sleeping with pets will limit your dog’s amount of movement during the night. They should also be comfortable and durable. For example, Tempur-Pedic mattresses provide pressure-relieving support that both you and your pup can enjoy.
8) Protect your mattress
Using mattress covers or high quality mattress pads is important to protect your mattress from any accidents. This should help ensure that both you and your pup can sleep soundly without worrying about spills or messes on the bed.
9) Limit cuddles and playtime
It’s important to limit the amount of time you spend intensively cuddling with your pup before bed to avoid overstimulating them, leading to a sleepy time that can lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying awake at night. If you like to sleep close to each other, that’s fine. But don’t be too wild and roll with them before bed.
10) Use positive reinforcement to get used to co-sleeping
Positive reinforcement with dogs has been scientifically proven to be one of the most successful ways to train them, so use this technique when trying to train your dog to sleep in bed with you. Rewarding good behavior with verbal praise or exercises to help maintain desirable co-sleeping behaviors while discouraging any negativity, such as repeatedly jumping up and down on the bed or scratching the mattress.
11) Consider the temperature
Adding another warm body to your bed can dramatically raise your sleeping temperature, especially if your dog is the type to crawl under the covers with you. If this is the case, you may need to aim for the lower end of the recommended sleep temperature range, which falls between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use different linens or pillows, or even a brand new mattress, that promote cooling and better air flow.
12) Follow the rules
It’s important to stay consistent with your co-sleeping rules, such as not letting them jump out of bed or get off until it’s enough to establish a comfortable sleep routine for you and your pup. Establishing rules will also prevent any confusion and help your pet understand what is expected of him when it comes to co-sleeping.
13) Wash your sheets weekly
If your dog sleeps in your bed, you should wash your sheets at least once a week to help keep the bedding fresh. Keeping things clean will ensure a healthy sleep environment for both of you and help reduce any dust or dirt that may be tracked in from outside.
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14) Pay attention to your dog’s needs
Most importantly, you should always be mindful of your dog’s needs when it comes to co-sleeping. If they seem restless or uncomfortable, remove them from the bed until they settle down or provide them with a comfortable place to sleep. If they have trouble getting in and out of bed, you need to know so you can provide the proper assistance, which can include everything from lifting them in and out of bed to providing them with their own dog stairs.
15) Make sure your sleeping partner is okay with it
Finally, if you have a non-four-legged partner, you know, the human kind, it’s imperative that you talk to them beforehand to make sure they’re comfortable with the idea of ​​co-sleeping with a puppy. This should help ensure that everyone is on the same page and can enjoy a restful night’s sleep without any worry or anxiety. If they’re not interested or sold on the idea, having a dog sleep in their bed will likely disturb their sleep, which isn’t fair. Work together to find the right solution for your entire family, human and furry.
A final word on co-sleeping with pets
By following these tips, you and your pup can achieve a restful and comfortable co-sleeping experience that benefits both of you. Remember that every dog ​​is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the best arrangement that suits everyone’s needs. However, you can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep with patience and dedication. Happy sleepiness.