How Does A Dog Choose Who To Sleep With

How does a dog choose who to sleep with? It may look like a very simple question, but the answer is still unknown for many dog owners. In reality, this is a complex matter and can tell a lot about your dog, you, and the bond between you two.

Today, we are going to explain how a dog makes up his mind and why he wants to sleep in the same bed with you. We will also reveal whether this is something you should allow.

How Does A Dog Choose Who To Sleep With?

Let’s imagine a scenario in which there are multiple family members. Each one has his own bed. How does a dog choose who to sleep with? The answer is simple and complicated at the same time. It is simply due to the fact that a dog will sleep with the alpha, or better said, he will want to sleep with the alpha.

There Are Few Reasons Why He Wants To Do This

But who is the alpha in the house? This is a complicated part of the story. The alpha is the strongest dog in the pack. Because you are all members of his pack, the main person in that family will be the alpha. This can be the owner of the dog, someone who feeds him, walks him, or just someone who rescued him.

In a nutshell, an alpha will be the strongest family member. Dogs can recognise this and will become submissive.

A dog without an alpha in the pack is an unhappy dog. It is in their blood to have an alpha or to be an alpha. If he growls at you when he is angry, it means that you are not the alpha and he doesn’t respect you! This is not wise behavior, and it is something you should work on.

A dog that doesn’t know his place in the pack will be sad all the time, and he will look for one. This is typical of a dog suffering from separation anxiety or depression. In general, he needs or must have an alpha, and you must be the one.

6 Reaons Why Your Dog Wants To Sleep In The Same Bed As You

There are many reasons why a dog will want to sleep in the same bed as you. These are usually simple and common reasons and of many out there, we were able to make a list of the ones that are the most common and affect most dogs. 

1. They Are Social Animals

In the wild, dogs sleep in groups. This is used to protect one another, and it is very effective. In other words, all dogs are social creatures, and as such, they want to be as close as possible to another person all the time, even at night.

All of this means that they will sleep with you in the same bed, period. This is one of the reasons why they are the best pets for so many people.

2. They Are Cold

If a dog is cold, he will look for a way to get warm. Your bed is much warmer than the floor and you are warm as well. Hence, he will climb into the bed and sleep with you instead of on the floor. This reason is common during the winter months and it is very common, especially among smaller dogs. 

3. He Doesn’t Like His Own Bed 

It can mean that he doesn’t like his bed because it is uncomfortable, too small, or has a bad smell. Regardless of the reason, you need to make sure your dog likes his bed and he wants to sleep there. Try to replace it and find him a more suitable option. 

4. He Wants To Keep You Safe

As we have mentioned, dogs sleep in groups in nature. They protect one another. This is the reason why he sleeps with you. He wants to keep you safe. There is no need to add that we are vulnerable when we sleep.

5. He Feels Secure

When a dog sleeps in the same bed as you, it usually means he feels secure. After all, you are the alpha, and you can protect him from anything. This reason is extremely common among dogs who have experienced trauma or feel insecure all the time.

6. Your Dog Loves You 

It can also mean that your dog loves you and wants to show you that all the time. He shows you that during the day, but he also wants to show you that when you sleep.

Should You Allow Him To Sleep With You?

First of all, many of us love sleeping in the same bed as our dog. It is pleasant, nice, and feels like nothing else. But the bed is an elevated area, and it should be reserved for Alpha only. In other words, you should sleep there alone, period. Your dog should sleep on the floor.

This is an ideal scenario that is far from common. Most dog owners do the opposite. Anyway, this is ideal because your pet will know where his place is and won’t question your leadership. You will remain algae, period.

If you want your dog to sleep with you, make sure you call him and he comes rather than jumping in the bed the moment he can. This isn’t an ideal situation, but it is much better than the common situation where he jumps in bed as soon as he sees you in it. Once again, this is done so he knows his place and accepts you as alpha.

Frequently Asked Questions How Does A Dog Choose Who To Sleep With

Why does my dog sleep on me and not my partner?

Dogs often sleep with the person they feel most bonded with. This could be due to the amount of time spent together, the level of affection they receive, or even the person’s smell or warmth.

Why does my dog sleep at my feet?

In the wild, dogs sleep where they feel safest and most protected. By sleeping at your feet, your dog is showing trust and acknowledging you as their protector.

Is it harmful to let my dog sleep in my bed?

While it depends on individual circumstances, generally, as long as your sleep isn’t disturbed and the dog isn’t showing signs of aggression or resource guarding, it’s fine to let your dog sleep in your bed.

Why does my dog change sleeping spots?

Dogs might change sleeping spots for a variety of reasons. These can include temperature changes, a need for more or less social interaction, or a simple desire for a change of scenery.

How can I make my dog more comfortable at night?

Providing a quiet, dark, and comfortable sleeping environment can help. A dog bed that fits your dog’s size and a consistent bedtime routine can also make a significant difference.

Why does my dog sleep against me?

Dogs often sleep against their owners for comfort, warmth, and safety. It can be a sign of their affection and trust.

Should I let my dog sleep in my room?

Allowing your dog to sleep in your room can help to strengthen your bond and provide a sense of security for your pet. However, it’s a personal decision and may not be suitable for everyone.

Why does my dog always want to sleep with a specific toy?

Dogs can form attachments to specific toys, which they see as comforting and familiar. This is why they might want to sleep with them.

Why does my dog circle before sleeping?

This is an instinctive behavior derived from their wild ancestors, who would trample down grass or snow to make a comfortable sleeping spot.

Does my dog understand what it means when I turn off the lights?

Many dogs come to associate certain environmental cues, like the turning off of lights, with bedtime. So yes, your dog might understand that it’s time to sleep when the lights go off.

Conclusion 

How does a dog choose who to sleep with and why he likes sleeping in the same bed so much? Now you know the answer. This simple article explains why dogs do this and it affects all dog breeds, all dogs, and can be applied to any case scenario.