Why does my dog like to sleep under my bed?

Table of contents

- Your dog looks for a den to rest

1. Because they seek security

2. Due to temperature

3. Because they want to be with you

4. Because they seek tranquility or is afraid

- Is it good for my dog to sleep under my bed?

- My dog spends a lot of time under my bed

Your dog is looking for a den to rest

Dogs are very active animals that love to run, explore and surround themselves with stimuli to learn new things every day. However, when it is time to retire or rest, they hate open spaces as it makes them feel unprotected. Therefore, it is normal for them to look for cozier and quieter places where they can recharge their batteries and stay safe from any distraction or discomfort. Ultimately, this is a behavior that dogs have inherited from wolves. When they sleep in nature, these animals look for dens to sleep in and, of course, they always do so in packs to protect each other. For this reason, it is not surprising that your pet chooses the part under the mattress to take a nap or rest all night. These are the reasons why your dog likes to sleep under your bed.

1. Because they look for security

As we said, rest is a vulnerable time for a dog from the point of view of their instinct, since they may be in a situation in which it could be more difficult to defend themself from being attacked by a predator or any other danger. In this sense, the part under your bed provides them with a dark, secluded and quiet area in which to rest and stay safe. Small, limited spaces are preferred by dogs when sleeping, as it allows them to feel protected during rest.

2. By temperature

Dogs have an average body temperature a couple of degrees higher than ours and, furthermore, they do not have a great ability to self-regulate. That is why, if they feel cold or simply want to enjoy warmer temperatures, they will choose a sheltered area to sleep. During sleep, your dog's body temperature may drop, so resting under your bed ensures greater comfort. The bottom part of your mattress, being limited by the bedding, is usually warmer. Additionally, if your dog sleeps under your bed when you are in it, your body heat will be transmitted through the mattress, making them feel very warm and cozy down there, especially if it's cold outside.

3. Because they want to be with you

You already know that for your dog there is nothing better than spending time with you, and that includes rest time. In addition to the reasons above, your pet can sleep under your bed to feel connected to you. The sound of your breathing and your heartbeat, your smell and your heat will make them feel protected. As their guide and protector, it is logical that your dog wants to sleep near you, since they fully trust that you will defend them from any danger. This is one of the main reasons why your dog sleeps under your bed, especially if you don't allow them to get on the mattress. In these situations, the area under the bed is the most comfortable and closest place they can access. That's why they choose it! Also, don't forget that in the wild, both dogs and wolves sleep with their packs to protect themselves.

4. Because they seek tranquility or are afraid

Dogs are very sensitive to chaotic or noisy environments. If your furry friend feels nervous or afraid of the situation around them, they will look for a remote and quiet space in which to rest. Your dog sleeping under your bed at night or from time to time is normal. Each animal has their own habits and, as we have seen, dogs have their reasons for choosing this place. However, it doesn't hurt to evaluate your dog's body language and observe when they retire to sleep under your bed. This way you can detect if it is an escape because they feel overwhelmed. This may be due to changes in the home, such as the arrival of a new pet, a noisy or chaotic environment, unknown visitors... If it is something specific, let your dog rest quietly in the place they have chosen. They will come out from under the bed when they feel relaxed and ready to go back into the world. Respecting your dog’s rest, especially if they seem overwhelmed or nervous, is very important.

Is it good for my dog to sleep under my bed?

As long as the presence of your pet in the room where you sleep does not harm your rest and you are committed to maintaining proper hygiene in the area, there is no problem with them sleeping under your bed. In fact, sleeping in the same space is an excellent way to strengthen your bond. You can place their bed there to make them more comfortable and, of course, disinfect the area regularly. Keep in mind that a lot of dust and bacteria accumulate just under the bed, so for the good of your family and your furry friend, keep this part of the house extremely clean.

If you don't want your dog to sleep under your bed for whatever reason, remember that the best way to change a habit is positive reinforcement, never scolding or punishment. Offer your pet another space to rest and make it super attractive to them by placing toys, teethers and even spraying them with a pheromone spray. Whenever your dog uses that place to sleep, reward them with petting and a snack so they learn that that is where they should rest. Also, try to prevent access under your bed by placing a barrier or simply closing the bedroom door.

My dog spends a lot of time under my bed

Now you know why your furry friend loves to enjoy their moments of rest under your bed. In this particular place, they feel safe, calm, close to you and warm. However, if you notice that your dog isolates themself more than normal in this area, both to sleep and hide, and also seems scared, consult your veterinarian. If your dog is sick, nervous or depressed, they may seek to get away from their surroundings in this hidden area under your bed. At this point, a professional veterinarian or ethologist will help you review your best friend's environment, routines, and health to make sure everything is going well.