Golden Retrievers are more than pets; they’re family members, and many owners consider sharing their bed with their beloved Goldie. According to a recent survey by the American Kennel Club, over 45 percent of people sleep with their dogs. But is it safe? In this Retriever Care video, we explore the pros and cons of letting your Golden Retriever sleep in your bed.
Can you sleep with your Golden Retriever? The answer is both yes and no—it depends. In general, it’s acceptable as long as neither your sleep nor your dog’s is disrupted. While sharing a bed with your furry friend has proven benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety, it’s essential to consider various factors.
Benefits of Sleeping with Your Golden Retriever
- Bond Strengthening: Golden Retrievers are cuddly giants, and having them beside you increases the bond and companionship.
- Security: The historical instinct of dogs sleeping next to humans for protection may make you feel safer.
- Reduced Anxiety: Sharing your bed with your dog has been proven to reduce anxiety and stress.
Considerations Before Bed Sharing
Before inviting your Golden Retriever onto your bed, there are crucial considerations:
- Behavioral Issues: If your dog has behavioral problems like aggression or resource guarding, address these before allowing them on the bed.
- Age Matters: Introducing young puppies to bed sharing may increase the risk of separation anxiety.
- Allergies: Golden Retrievers carry allergens that might trigger allergies, so consider your own health.
- Sleep Disturbance: Dogs may roll, stretch, twitch, snore, or wake up during the night, potentially disrupting your sleep cycle.
- Changing Habits: Once your dog is accustomed to sleeping with you, changing this habit can be challenging.
If the idea of sharing your bed seems daunting, placing a comfortable dog bed on the floor allows your Golden Retriever to enjoy proximity without disturbing your sleep. This approach ensures you maintain the benefits of companionship while having a designated sleeping space for your furry friend.
The choice to let your Golden Retriever sleep with you or on a dog bed depends on your preferences and comfort. Share your sleeping arrangements in the comments and, for more Retriever care tips, don’t forget to like and subscribe to our channel. Sweet dreams for you and your Golden!
