Dogs have earned the title of man’s best friend for a good reason. They provide company, love, and comfort like no other. But dogs are so much more than family pets these days—they serve as therapy companions, emotional support providers, and even assist police in life-saving search and rescue missions.
During the chilly months, many dogs snuggle up on their owners’ beds seeking warmth and refuge. Yet, this behavior doesn’t stop when the temperature rises; summer nights often see our furry friends curling up close for affection and reassurance.
The wish to sleep on your pillow comes from a mix of natural instincts and emotional bonds that deepen your connection. This little habit benefits not only your dog but also you.
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By instinct, dogs prefer sleeping in groups; it’s their way of feeling safe. This communal rest helps regulate their body temperature and strengthens social bonds. When your dog consistently chooses your pillow, it is a clear sign of affection and trust.
Experts from La Red Zoocial explain that dogs rest near their humans seeking closeness, love, and a sense of security. Thanks to their incredible sense of smell, dogs recognize familiar scents that calm them down.
As veterinarians at Veterinarias San Juan share, “When our dog picks our pillow, it’s showing us that it feels safe and protected in our presence.”
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An American Pet Products Association study found that 41% of dogs share their owners’ beds. Smaller to medium-sized breeds are more likely to enjoy this cozy habit. While opinions vary, the general consensus is positive when hygiene and health measures are in place.
Dr. Gabriel Rojas, a veterinarian from Ottovet clinic in Bogotá, says sleeping together does not usually cause health problems as long as allergies are managed and good hygiene routines are maintained for both pet and bed. Also, keeping vaccinations and parasite controls up to date is key.
Interestingly, dogs can have a calming effect, helping owners fall asleep faster and sleep more peacefully.
How sharing your bed with your dog improves well-being
Studies have shifted away from the old belief that having pets in your bed disrupts sleep. Instead, many people report sleeping better and feeling safer with their canine companions close by, according to the Sleep Institute.
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Sharing your bed with your dog encourages the release of oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” which promotes relaxation, happiness, and emotional bonding.
It also reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, making it especially beneficial for those struggling with anxiety or depression.
Beyond the chemistry, the simple presence of your dog provides a sense of companionship, enhancing your overall sleep quality and emotional well-being.
On a personal note, I’ve noticed how my own dog’s quiet breathing next to me helps ease the tension of the day. There’s a comfort in knowing someone is there—unconditionally loyal and calm—that helps me drift off more peacefully than any book or meditation app could. This small comfort has become a nightly ritual I cherish.
Does your dog have a favorite sleeping spot close to you? Why do you think pets choose to get so close at night? Share your stories and thoughts below. Have you felt your sleep improve thanks to your furry friend? Join the conversation and spread the warmth by sharing this article with fellow pet lovers.
My Border Terrier sleeps on my pillow behind my head and we both sleep well.
My dog has to have a paw on me at night even though he moves around. He is also very alert. The only problem is that if he hears something unusual at night he wakes me up to go check it out lol.
🤩 I experience the same, my dog wakes me up in the middle of the night to check on if she concerns on kids or anything else.
I couldn’t fall asleep without my Chihuahua Skippy curled up against me in bed. Her occasional soft sighs and her soft breathing comforts me and gives me a strong feeling of security and peace. I’ve always said that it wasn’t a coincidence that dog spelled backwards is God.
This article is spot on. I have two dogs who sleep with me. One is a timid rescue who quietly climbs up next to me and puts her head on my pillow. My other one spoons around me. Such peace and instant relaxation. We nap a lot on my days off LOL
I feel bad for everyone who doesn’t have this luxury💜
My baby chihuahua gives me so much comfort and peace. We’re inseparable 🩷
I have 2 year old red tick beagle she sleeps in my bed half on my chest and half on the bed I think it’s awesome and sometimes she sleeps on her back on my stomach we both sleep very sound every dog I have had has always been welcome in my bed
That’s so sweet! I have a black lab and a Kelpie who sleep with me. The lab takes half my bed, its his bed i just sleep in it. 😝I never understood people who don’t let their dog sleep with them. Its peaceful!
I never understood how ppl can have dog in bed-until I got my own dog.Yes is more work- bedding and bath for my 2 dogs.I also cook for them- since my husband died I have 2 dogs on my bed-My sleep improved,I feel safer because they have excellent hearing.
Yes having 4 legged coosleper is beneficial for humans and animal too.
my baby sleep’s on my bed,and on top of my pillow as well on top of me and i love her to bits,also these days i get more sleep with her near me even if it is on top of me she is my baby in the house💞🐾
Linda Darlene
07/03/2025 at 3:28 pm
My Chihuahua Houston sleeps on my pillow with me every night.
I’m retired so during the day when I take naps he’s right there by my side. With him there it also helps my anxiety and help me rest better. 🐾
I honestly could not sleep at all without my Chihuahua, Molly, next to me. She starts out behind my knees and by morning she’s curled up with her head on my pillow. I’m 73 and I’ve slept with every dog I have had. Children leave, husbands die but your dogs comfort you through life’s travails.
Hi, I have very beloved pug called maximus, he sleeps with my husband and I every night, upon my pillow above my head, he gazes at me with his expressive face. I find his deep rythmatic sleeping so soothing and reassuring, eases me to a contented sleep, I couldn’t sleep now without him there, during the night he moves down and curls into me , to feel him next to me is so relaxing, we are there for each other,
My dogs sleep on my pillow and sometimes they put their neck on my shoulder where it touches me.I am always having to move them from my side of the bed..Nothing better than having a dogs love..Thank you for sharing..
My little girl shitzu Bichon cross , the tea cup variety , sleeps with me , she loves to snuggle up to my heart and if it’s too warm for that she will stretch out but always keeps one foot touching me , she is my heart and soul , and I sleep much better with her breathing by my side , if I am restless she kisses me and lets me know that she is there
I have 2 dogs. Gracie a timid Boxer, sleeps in the closet while Mickey sleeps in the bed with us. Mickey is a 72 pound Golden Doodle. Mickey sleeps with his head either on my husband’s chest or he sleeps with his head toward the foot of the bed, as if listening to any sounds that may harm us. I feel more secure.
My little Chi, Pnut, sleeps with me right behind my shoulder, rolling onto her back and kicking me with her back legs. Makes me smile and comforts me. Even after a very serious surgery, (25 staples), she slept in her spot behind me, restless and in discomfort. I cradled her and we both slept a little. She has recovered thanks to my wonderful vet. Nothing like a warm furry friend in the dead of night!
I’ve been married 61 years, and we have always had our dogs sleep in our bed. Now I have two dogs, and they take turns sleeping between my legs. It keeps me cozy and makes them feel secure and when one’s not in between my legs, they are right next to my side, pushing on my side. I love my dogs and I wouldn’t trade them for anything and I love them sleeping with me
My dogs have always slept with me. Honey, my Maltese Shih Tzu, loves to sleep with her head on the pillow next to me. Listening to her breathing ( and sometimes snoring 😘) makes me feel so calm and happy. I can’t imagine sleeping any other way. 🥰🐶
My parents’ most recent dog who sadly passed away about 1 year ago was too weak to climb the stairs to the bedroom for the final two years of her life. I wonder if she felt “separation” for not being able to sleep with her humans towards the end. She had a slightly peculiar but affectionate habit of passing through my legs to ensure that I knew she was there, say, when I was standing talking to my mother. How could I not notice her! She , Murphy, the dog, delighted in being rubbed and caressed, even after she had developed many lipomas all over her body. I think that in many ways pets recognize the power of a “healing touch” and I try to share these with my animal friends. A good scratch, a caress, a pat…. animals love these so much!