Discover effective tips on how to make a dog sleep in his bed. Learn how to create a cozy, inviting space your dog
It seems like your dog is destined to be by your side twenty-four seven. Even after you fall asleep, no matter what, you find your pooch cuddled up beside you on the pillow. So how can you train your dog to sleep anywhere else but in your bed? Many pet owners ask how to make a dog sleep in his bed without feeling guilty about pushing their treasured companion away. Once you have decided to train your dog to sleep in its bed, it’s essential to remain consistent and patient throughout the process.
Dogs are social animals. No doubt that you want to spend as much time with you as possible. Being with your dog is lovely, but it can present a few challenges—especially when you need to get some sleep. As descendants of pack animals, dogs naturally prefer to sleep near their owners for security and warmth. This instinctual behaviour influences their choice of sleeping space, as they seek closeness and safety with their pack.
One of the most challenging aspects of being a dog parent is trying to get a restful night's sleep. This is particularly true if you’re a light sleeper or need silence and stillness to fall asleep.
While it may seem impossible at first, you can encourage your dog to sleep in his or her own bed. The training process is a structured way to teach your dog proper sleep habits and help them adjust to their new sleeping arrangement. And you can do it kindly and effectively. A great first step is investing in a luxury dog bed. Additionally, ensure the bed is placed in a comfortable and quiet area of the home, as dogs may resist sleeping in their own bed if it is located in an uncomfortable or noisy spot.
How To Make a Dog Sleep in His Bed
Recently, the APPA National Pet Owners, the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control conducted surveys. They found that 45–60% of pet owners share their beds with their dogs every night. These numbers highlight not only the owner's preferences but also the dog's own comfort and experiences regarding sleeping arrangements. Integrating a dog as a family member often means considering both the household's and the dog's needs for a secure and comfortable environment.
Between 13–33% of respondents believe their dogs help them sleep. But nearly all admit their dogs have disrupted their sleep at least once.
About 10% of pet owners surveyed by the Mayo Clinic say their sleep is disrupted more often than that. Another study shows that 50% of dog owners are woken at least once per night by their pet. Establishing consistent routines, such as setting bedtimes and designating a designated sleeping area, can help both owners and dogs experience better, more restful sleep.
Introduction to Dog Sleep
Dog sleep is a vital part of your pet’s overall health and happiness. Many dog owners struggle to get their dogs to sleep in their own beds, which can lead to restless nights and disrupted sleep for everyone in the house. Understanding your dog’s sleep needs and creating a sleep-friendly environment is key to helping your dog learn to sleep in their own bed. The right dog bed is the foundation for a restful night’s sleep, providing comfort and security for your furry friend. By establishing a consistent sleep routine and choosing the right bed, dog owners can help their pets enjoy better sleep and wake up refreshed. With a little patience and the right approach, you can encourage your dog to sleep in their own bed and make bedtime a peaceful experience for both of you.
Sleep Disruptions Caused by Dogs
Up to 63% of people who let pets sleep with them for four nights a week or more report poor sleep. Even sharing a room, not just a bed, can cause sleep problems. Where your dog sleeps—whether in your bed, on the floor, or in a crate nearby—can affect both your sleep quality and your dog's comfort and behaviour.
Dogs can scratch, twitch, toss and turn, or snore. If you’ve ever wondered why dogs scratch their beds, it’s often part of their natural nesting behaviour—an instinct that can also disrupt your sleep.
Possible Causes for Dog Disturbances
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Snoring
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Whimpering or barking
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Getting out of and back into bed at night
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Shuffling under blankets
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Thunderstorms or loud noises
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Bathroom needs (potty breaks)
Canine Sleep Disorders
Your dog may be waking up due to a urinary tract infection (URI) or cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).
Once a vet rules out health issues, you might find that letting your dog sleep in your bed caused the problem. It’s best to set boundaries from day one.
If you believe your sleep will be disrupted, start your dog off with their own dog's bed or crate. Help them learn where they are meant to sleep. Allowing your dog to take a nap in their new bed during the day can help them adjust to their sleeping space.
Choosing the Right Bed
Selecting the right dog bed is a crucial step in ensuring your dog sleeps comfortably in their own bed. Dog beds come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, so it’s important to consider your dog’s size, breed, and sleeping preferences. For example, a larger dog will need a more spacious and supportive bed, while a smaller dog may prefer a snug, cozy spot. Pay attention to how your dog likes to sleep—do they stretch out or curl up? Select a bed that complements their style and offers ample soft, durable cushioning. A well-chosen dog bed not only supports your dog’s body but also encourages them to use their own bed for sleep. By investing in the right bed, dog owners can make bedtime more appealing for their pets and help everyone in the family enjoy a better night’s sleep.
Creating a Sleep-Conducive Environment
A sleep-conducive environment is essential for helping your dog settle into their own bed. Dog owners should ensure the sleeping area is quiet, dark, and maintained at a comfortable temperature to help their dog fall asleep and stay asleep. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, including regular times for going to bed and waking up, can help regulate your dog’s internal clock and improve their sleep quality. Use positive reinforcement, such as verbal praise and treats, to reward your dog for choosing their own bed. Creating a cozy, inviting space where your dog feels safe and relaxed will encourage them to use their bed, making it easier for them to drift off to sleep. With the right environment and routine, your dog will soon look forward to bedtime in their own bed.
Ensuring Comfort and Support
Comfort and support are key factors in helping your dog sleep soundly in their own bed. A high-quality dog bed provides the cushioning and support your dog needs to rest their joints and muscles, especially for older dogs or those with health concerns. Adding a soft blanket or a favourite toy can make the bed even more inviting and help your dog feel at home. Dog owners should pay attention to their dog’s individual needs—some dogs may need extra support, while others want a cozy spot to curl up. By making sure your dog’s bed is comfortable and supportive, you’ll help them enjoy a restful night’s sleep and wake up ready for a new day.
Training Your Dog to Sleep in a New Bed
Letting your dog share your bed might be comforting, but if it affects your health, it’s time to train them to use their own bed. Dog training techniques, such as establishing routines and using clear commands, are essential for teaching your dog or pup to sleep in their own bed.
Training isn’t complicated, but it will require consistency and patience as part of the training process. Reinforcement will help your dog adapt to the change more easily, and positive reinforcement encourages your dog to go to their bed willingly. Rewarding your dog for desired behaviour, such as going to their bed, helps reinforce good habits. Always use the same command each time you direct your dog to their bed to build understanding and consistency. Using verbal praise and small treats rewards positive behaviour more effectively than punishing undesirable behaviour. Give your dog a treat when they go to their bed to reinforce the action. Walking your dog to their bed and gently putting them in it helps them associate the space with rest. Creating a calm environment will help your dog relax in their new bed. These methods can help even a restless pup learn to sleep in their own bed.
Tips for Moving Your Dog to Their Own Bed
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Place a comfy dog bed beside your own to start the transition.
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Use positive reinforcement to train your dog to enter and exit the bed on command.
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Establish yourself as the pack leader. Give consistent commands.
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If your dog sneaks back into bed after you’re asleep, repeat the training until it sticks.
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Encourage your dog to use their bed during the day to form a habit.
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Allow your dog to take naps in their bed during the day to help them get comfortable with their new sleeping arrangement.
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Clean the bed regularly and ensure it smells fresh and inviting.
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Consider replacing old or uncomfortable beds. Would you sleep in it?
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Prevent confusion by always keeping the dog's sleeping space in the same spot.
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Make sure the bed is the right size and shape for your dog's specific needs. Here are tips to help you choose the right dog bed.
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Adding familiar items, like toys or blankets with the owner’s scent, can make the dog's bed more inviting.
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Always reward your dog for choosing their own bed.
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When choosing the bed's location, consider the presence of other animals in the home, as this can affect your dog's comfort and sense of security.
Helping a Puppy Sleep
Helping a puppy sleep through the night can be a challenge, but it’s an important part of raising a happy, healthy family member. Puppies require ample sleep to grow and develop, and establishing a consistent sleep routine from the outset will help them develop good habits. Crate training is a great way to provide your puppy with a safe and secure space to rest, making the transition to sleeping in their own bed much easier. Use positive reinforcement, like treats and verbal praise, to encourage your puppy to settle in their bed. Be patient—puppies may take a few weeks to adjust, but with consistency and encouragement, they’ll soon learn to love their own bed. By providing a comfortable bed, a predictable routine, and numerous positive experiences, dog owners can help their puppies get the rest they need and become well-adjusted family members.
Doesn't Your Best Friend Deserve a Good Night's Sleep?
If your dog's bed is less comfortable than yours, it’s no surprise they prefer your bed. Invest in a high-quality dog bed your pet actually wants to sleep in. Memory foam and orthopedic materials can provide additional support for dogs’ joints, making their bed more appealing and comfortable, especially for dogs with joint issues.
Dog bean bags are a smart alternative to foam beds. They offer full-body support and washable covers. Many owners say their dogs won’t sleep on anything else, and a comfortable bed helps ensure a restful night's sleep for your dog.
