5 Ways Sleeping With Your Pet Can Give You a Better Night’s Rest

While luxurious linen and cosy throws are must-haves in the bedroom in winter, the finest addition to your bed may be your very own pet (goldfish aside). Research has proven that sharing a bedroom with your furry companion can promote a good night’s sleep, relieve stress and, as every cuddly pet owner knows, keep you warm. 

While sleeping with your Great Dane might not be the most comfortable or relaxing experience but, a small dog or cat might be just what you need to drift off into a peaceful and cozy slumber. Here’s why…

Purring Can be Conductive to Sleep

Sleep specialist Dr. Lois Krahn says a purring cat or an obedient dog will create a relaxed bedroom environment. They need not be on the bed, just in the same room.

Pet’s Give Us a Sense of Security

Your pet brings a sense of security. Even the little ones — hey, good things come in small packages. While your bunny is an unlikely protector, their animal warmth will keep you feeling safe and comforted at night.

Petting Your Pet Releases Oxytocin

Petting your pet releases oxytocin, or the “cuddle chemical”. This trumps any (inanimate!) pillow. Japanese animal behaviorist Takefumi Kikusui discovered that oxytocin fosters a sense of trust and bonding, which humans and animals (dogs, particularly) share when they gaze into each other’s eyes. The chemical response is similar to the interaction between a mother and her baby.

You May Fall Asleep Faster

Studies show that owners who simply keep their pet’s bed in the corner of their bedrooms experienced 83% sleep efficiency in comparison to the average 80%. If you’re sleeping 6 hours or less a night, your sleep efficiency is under 80%, thus under average, so try changing your sleep habits by bringing your pet into the room.

Dogs Tend To Rest Well Regardless

While the short-snouted may snore, the big-mouthed may drool and the long-legged may kick, dogs usually sleep well in any location. So they should be very happy and comfortable tucked up in bed with you.

This article originally appeared on our sister site, Homes to Love.