Is It Bad If I Sleep With My Dog In My Bed? Is It Safe or Gross?

Is it bad to sleep with your dog? If your pup snuggles into your bed every night, you're far from alone—over 45% of dog owners share their beds with their pets, according to the Sleep Foundation. But while co-sleeping with your dog can feel comforting (and adorable), many pet parents still wonder: Is it bad if my dog sleeps in my bed? Could it affect your sleep quality, hygiene, or even your dog’s behavior?

In this article, we dig into the science, expert opinions, and real-life pros and cons to answer the big question: Is it safe—or gross—to let your dog sleep in your bed? Whether you're a seasoned dog co-sleeper or considering making space for your pup under the covers, we’ve got everything you need to know.

Is It Bad If I Sleep With My Dog In My Bed?

Sharing your bed with your dog might feel cozy, but is it actually a bad idea? The answer depends on several factors—including your health, your dog's behavior, and how both of you sleep. Let’s unpack the potential downsides.

1. Sleep Disruptions Are Common

Dogs are light sleepers and can be restless throughout the night. A study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that while having a dog in the bedroom may not significantly disrupt sleep, having a dog in the bed can reduce sleep efficiency. If you're a light sleeper or prone to insomnia, your pup’s midnight movements or snoring might be more disruptive than soothing.

2. Allergies and Hygiene Concerns

Is it bad to sleep with a dog if you have allergies? Quite possibly. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, dog dander, fur, and even outdoor allergens brought in on paws can trigger allergic reactions. If you or a family member suffers from asthma or seasonal allergies, co-sleeping could worsen symptoms—even if your dog is well-groomed.

3. Reinforcing Separation Anxiety

Dogs thrive on structure and boundaries. If your dog already shows signs of separation anxiety, allowing them to sleep in your bed may blur the lines of independence. It can create clingy behavior or distress when you're away, according to veterinary behaviorists. While cuddling can be comforting, your bed shouldn't become the only place they feel secure.

4. Risk of Germ Transmission

Even healthy dogs carry bacteria and parasites that may be passed to humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that close contact—like sharing bedding—can increase the risk of zoonotic disease transmission. Although this risk is relatively low for healthy adults and vaccinated pets, it’s still something to consider, especially if someone in the home is immunocompromised.

The Ancients Did It So…

According to the AKC, canine/human co-sleeping is not a modern pastime. Moreover, some traditional cultures considered co-sleeping with animals as beneficial. The Aboriginal Australians, for example, often slept beside their dogs for warmth and protection from evil spirits. At just 14 pounds and not exactly a fur ball, I’m going to say Lilly’s better at providing the latter.

Germ Risk Next to Nil

Allergies, eh – apparently they’re at a higher risk of aggravation with the pup in the bed. But regarding transfer of zoonotic diseases, according to canine researcher Bradley Smith of Central Queensland University in Australia, “The [risk] is so low, it’s ridiculous. If your dog is healthy and vaccinated, there is basically no risk.” Okay, check!

But…Best Night’s Sleep? Maybe/Maybe Not

My (super scientific) research showed this one to be a bit of a toss-up among the 56% of pet parents who co-sleep, according to the Mayo Clinic study. Researchers and dog-owners alike all agree that quality of sleep is at risk with co-sleeping: previous studies have shown greater sleep disturbances in owners sharing a bed with their pet. Nothing really that surprising there.

But here’s the interesting part that may explain it: dogs are polyphasic sleepers and have multiple bouts of sleep/wake cycles throughout the day/night, whereas most humans are monophasic sleepers (one period of sleep over a 24-hour cycle). Moreover, dogs also stay attentive to sounds, even when asleep, which may render them lighter sleepers than humans. Well, at least I’m learning something.

Love Wins

In the end – germaphobe, light sleeper, whatever – I just love having Lilly in the bed. It’s part of a daily routine that brings us both joy, starting with her waking me up, me placing her off the bed for her morning scramble and ending with me swooping her up to her spot, turning off the lights, and saying goodnight. And if she wakes me up during one of her poly-whatever sleep cycles, so be it.