LifecanbetoffPosted in partnership with DFS for International Dog Day
If you’re anything like me, your idea of a good day includes a muddy mountain trail, a fantastic view, and your dog snoring by your side after a day full of adventure. And since International Dog Day (26 August) is all about celebrating our four-legged ride-or-die besties, it feels like the perfect time to admit something…
I sleep better when Toffee’s in the bed with me. Yep! Better than when I’m solo. And it turns out, I’m not alone!
Dogs could be the key to a better night’s sleep
A recent nationwide survey by DFS found that one in four Brits gets a better night’s sleep when accompanied by their four legged friend. That’s right — warm paws, snuffly snores, and those dream-chasing tail twitches are actually good for our wellbeing.
Here’s what else they found from the 2000 adults surveyed:
- 40% of us now let our pets sleep in the bedroom
- 41% say it brings comfort
- 1 in 3 said it boosts their mood
- 1 in 4 said it makes them feel safer and less lonely
Compare that to sharing the bed with a romantic partner, which, brace yourselves, actually worsens sleep for over half of us. So, yes, the dog is > than the other half.
And it’s not just a feel-good thing – it’s backed by science. DFS’s resident sleep expert, Anne Marie Boyhan, says:
“Sleep is deeply emotional – it’s not just about how many hours you get, but how safe and supported you feel. The comfort of a pet’s presence has been found to decrease levels of cortisol, a stress-related hormone, which is essential for quality sleep.”
BUT!
Before you invite them to snuggle under the duvet for nightly spooning, Anne Marie also has some important advice. Because while those puppy cuddles can lead to better sleep, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution and it really shouldn’t be detrimental to your sleep patterns.
In anticipation of International Dog Day, here are her top tips for pet-friendly bedtime success:
Set boundaries
Give your pet a designated spot in the room – think a comfy blanket at the foot of the bed, or go all out with their own pet sofa bed (the perfect spot for post hike snoozes).
Skip under-the-cover cuddles
If you’re a light sleeper or prone to overheating, your dog might be better on top of the covers – not tucked in next to you. Pro tip: 18.3°C is the dream sleep temp for humans and hounds.
Toffee – take note, no more demands to sleep under the duvet!
Monitor your sleep
Still waking up groggy? Try tracking your sleep for a week. If you suspect your pup (and in my case the cat too) is disturbing your rest (no offence, Toffee and Nessi), gently guide them out of the room or to their own bed. They’ll still feel like royalty – just on their own throne.
International Dog Day
So this International Dog Day, Toffee and I will be celebrating the way we do best – out on the trail and curling up at night for a pawsitively perfect sleep. And whether she’s snoozing under the duvet at the end of the bed or in her own bed, I know we’re both better for the snuggle.
After all, happy dog = happy sleep = happy human.
Happy International Dog Day from me and Toffee!
Looking to go on an adventure with your dog? Check out what I wish I knew before I started hiking with my dog.
