Separation anxiety is very common among dogs and causes them to feel anxious or distressed when left alone. If you have a dog with separation anxiety, it can be difficult for you to know how to help your furry friend when they’re struggling with their symptoms. One question that often comes up is whether or not you should let your dog sleep with you to help them feel better.
The short answer is that it depends on your specific situation and your dog’s individual needs. There are pros and cons to allowing your dog with separation anxiety to sleep with you, so it’s important to weigh them carefully before making a decision.
Let’s look at the details.
“Anxiety is the dizziness of freedom“.
Soren Kierkegaard
The pros of letting your furry friend with separation anxiety sleep with you
- Comfort: IIf you allow your dog with separation anxiety to sleep with you, you will provide them with a sense of comfort and security. This can help to reduce their anxiety levels and make them feel more relaxed.
- Bonding: Sharing a bed with your dog can strengthen your bond and deepen your relationship. This can be especially important for dogs with separation anxiety, who may benefit from feeling more connected to their owner.
- Reduced Barking: If your dog is prone to barking or whining when left alone, sleeping with you may help to reduce this behavior. They’ll feel more relaxed and secure, which can lead to fewer anxious outbursts.
Cons of letting your dog with anxiety sleep with you
- Dependency: Allowing your dog to sleep with you may reinforce their dependence on you, which can make it harder for them to cope with being alone. They may become more attached to you and struggle more when you’re not around.
- Hygiene: Dogs can carry germs and parasites, which can be transferred to humans through close contact. Sleeping with your dog may increase your risk of illness or infection.
So, should i let my dog with separation anxiety sleep in my bed? It depends…
The decision to let your dog with separation anxiety sleep with you, depends on your unique circumstances. It’s always recommended to seek professional advice. A vet or dog behavioral therapist will be able to give you specific advice. If their feedback is positive and you’re willing to accept the potential drawbacks, it may be worth trying.
If you’re concerned about the potential downsides or prefer to maintain a separate sleeping space, there are other strategies you can try to help your dog cope with their separation anxiety.
What to do if you don’t want your dog with separation anxiety sleep with you
Here’s a practical list of things to consider if you prefer that your furry friend sleep in their own space.
- Gradually acclimate your dog to being alone by leaving them for short periods of time and gradually increasing the length of time you’re away.
- Create a comfortable, safe space for your dog to relax in when you’re not home. This could be a crate, a designated room, or an area with their favorite toys and treats.
- Consider working with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to develop a customized plan for addressing your dog’s separation anxiety.