It is an issue that encourages fierce debate among animal lovers and is yet to be resolved. But a recent survey shows that more than 40 per cent of pet owners allow their dogs to sleep in the same bed as them. Some say that this encourages bonding between the dog and the owner and some argue that it will make it difficult to discipline the animal.
Student Madhu Siddappa says, “My dog Sona is like my own child so I let her sleep in my bed. She usually jumps in when she is feeling ignored and is craving some attention.” Dr Lohith, a vet, sees no harm in the practice, “It obviously depends on your circumstances but it is not a bad thing per se. If you have just bought the puppy home or rescued it from a pound, then letting it sleep next to you will give it a sense of safety and inclusion in the family,” he says.
But there are some practical hurdles. Dr Pavan Kumar says, “Dogs shed their hair throughout the night and are a common source of allergy in pet owners.” He also says that even house-trained dogs are unreliable at night. “Vets advice that dogs have their own sleeping space so their nightly habits are regulated,” he adds.
The issue of obedience among dogs who share a bed with their owners is also heavily contested. Dr Kumar says, “Dogs that aren’t yet neutered can gradually assert dominance in this situation.” Priya R, a businesswoman agrees, “We have three big dogs and one of them is quite ferocious. I’m not sure we can handle them in the same bed.” Having a toddler who sleeps with them is also a big factor in her decision, “My son is just two so I don’t want to compromise on his safety.” Dr Kumar commends her decision, “Dogs are territorial creatures so they might see children as competition.”
But Madhu thinks that there are many causes for a dog’s aggressive behaviour, “Sona is not aggressive at all so it’s not always true. I think dogs have behavioural issues for different reasons and it’s hard to blame just one thing for it.” Dr Lohith adds, “It should not affect the dog’s discipline and there are obedience classes to correct any problems.”
Dr Kumar concludes, “It is a divisive issue but I believe that it is also better for the dog’s emotional health to have its own bed.”