A new UK survey by Petplan has revealed that a significant portion of the British population is sharing their bed with a furry friend every night. More than a third of Brits regularly co-sleep with their dog or cat, prompting questions about the impact on both human and pet wellbeing. The comprehensive study, which drew on advice from Petplan’s in-house veterinary team and expert insights from Physiologist and Sleep Expert, Dr Nerina Ramlakham, delved into how a pet’s presence in the bedroom affects sleep quality, productivity, and mental health. Among dog owners, the findings presented a fascinating picture: Improved Sleep for Many: A notable 34% of dog owners reported experiencing a “very good” quality of sleep when co-sleeping with their canine companion. This contrasts with just 24% who claimed better sleep without their dog. Regular Bed Sharers: Almost half (47%) of dog owners admitted to sleeping with their dog every single night. Minor Disturbances: While generally positive, some disturbances were noted. 25% of dog owners stated their dog moving in the night woke them up, with snoring dogs causing interruptions for 16% of owners. Emotional Benefits: The emotional advantages of co-sleeping with a dog were clear, with 51% of owners reporting feelings of ‘comfort’ and 46% experiencing ‘calm’ due to their pet’s presence. Popular Sleeping Position: The most common sleeping position for dogs, according to 44% of owners, is curled up at their owner’s feet, suggesting a desire for closeness without taking up too much space. 88% of cat owners and 85% of dog owners say they’ve been…
