Maybe it’s just me, but I love it when my dogs sleep in bed with me, it feels special.

Not all dogs want to sleep in bed with us, but many do. Sometimes, it can also be a combination of hoping into bed with us and then leaving after a while and then coming back again later. Whatever my dogs want to do, I give them agency to decide and here’s why.

But first, I have to bring us to a place where dogs are free-range, making their own choices to truly understand how they would act naturally without the intervention of humans.

Dogs are social animals, and they generally live in groups or communities, just as humans do. They rely on their community for many reasons such as protection, obtaining food, raising offspring and providing emotional support.

Sleeping with others can have many purposes from the perspective of dogs (and humans), including:

• Providing safety and protection, allowing for deeper relaxation,
• Close proximity enhances bonding and reinforces relationships, and
• It helps to conserve body heat, particularly in colder environments.

Because dogs are our family, it makes complete sense for them to want to sleep with us. In fact, I think it’s a good sign if your dog wants to be with you during a time when you’re all at your most vulnerable. It’s sweet and important too!

If you and your dog both feel positive about sleeping together, please do. Especially if your dog is young, sick or scared. It’s healthy, natural and one of the best ways to create a bond that represent safety and comfort.