Science Shows That Women Sleep Better Next To Dogs Than Men

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Research led by Christy Hoffman, Ph.D., at Canisius College has uncovered that women who sleep next to dogs often report better rest quality compared to those sharing their beds with cats or even human partners. This conclusion comes from a survey of nearly a thousand U.S.-based women, revealing that 55% shared their beds with at least one dog, 31% with one or more cats, and 57% with a human partner. Many women perceive their dogs as better sleep companions due to their alignment with human sleep cycles, the comfort of their stillness at night, and the security they provide.

In comparing animals and human partners, the study suggests that dogs’ sleep patterns more closely align with humans. While cats are known for their nocturnal behaviors, dogs are more adaptable to their owner’s schedule. Cats tend to come and go during the night, creating disruptions, whereas dogs generally stay still. This relative stillness is beneficial for rest; participants noted that their dogs tend to stay put through the night rather than fidgeting or moving on and off the bed like cats. Consequently, women sharing beds with dogs often experience less disturbance, whereas women with human partners may face challenges due to differing sleep schedules, bedtime habits, and nighttime movements.

A significant factor that influences rest quality with a dog in the bed is the increased sense of security dogs provide. For some dog owners, the comfort of having a protective presence that could alert them to intruders or emergencies offers psychological reassurance that isn’t typically matched by a cat or even a human partner. This sense of protection creates a safer sleep environment, helping these women rest more deeply and without worry.

Beyond these direct influences, dog ownership also supports routines that promote healthier sleep hygiene. The responsibility of caring for a dog—such as waking up at a consistent time for morning walks—promotes regularity in bedtime and wake time, which is key to improving sleep patterns. Hoffman found that women who share their beds with dogs often maintain consistent sleep and wake routines, which positively impacts sleep quality.

However, Hoffman notes the study’s subjective nature and highlights the need for objective, measurable research to validate these findings. As it stands, the study reflects participants’ self-reported perceptions of their sleep quality rather than tracked, scientific metrics. Future research could involve using wearable devices, similar to Fitbits, to measure the effects of sleeping with pets objectively. Such studies could help determine which types of co-sleeping arrangements truly benefit sleep quality and under what conditions they might detract from it.

While sleeping next to a dog may not suit everyone—some people may find that a dog’s warmth or occasional snoring disrupts their sleep—the findings hint at the potential benefits of sharing a bed with a canine companion. Further exploration into these subjective yet consistent experiences can help create a clearer understanding of the ways animals influence sleep health. As Hoffman points out, with so many American households owning pets, understanding these dynamics could yield insights valuable to both pet owners and researchers studying sleep.

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