Should pets be allowed to sleep in bed?
To cuddle with our four-legged friends is a wonderful way to pass the time, which provides us pure happiness. Some people would therefore like to continue the cuddling sessions in a comfortable bed - especially when the dog's gaze melts the heart. But is it a good idea to cuddle our pets in bed or even let them sleep there? This is where opinions differ! We will clarify whether you can share your bed with a dog or cat without hesitation.
- Do pets affect the hygiene in bed?
- Do pets in bed affect the quality of sleep?
- Why pets in bed also have positive effects
- Finding the best solution for everyone
Do pets affect the hygiene in bed?
The most common reason against pets in bed is hygiene. On their daily walks, dogs become true explorers, curiously roaming through the undergrowth. Unfortunately, sometimes a tick or a flea can become an uninvited guest. Even cats which are allowed to roam outside can bring stowaways or dirt into the house. Of course you do not want to see any of this in bed! After trips outside, fur-care is a must before dog or cat may be allowed into the bed. For health reasons alone it is worthwhile to comb the fur with a special flea or tick-comb. Because ticks and fleas can cause serious illnesses. 
Animal hair also disturbs the hygiene in bed and is a reason to think about separate beds for humans and animals. If you still let your dog or cat sleep in your bed with you, changing the bed linen regularly is an absolute must. Additionally, you should shake out the blanket and pillow when making up the bed. Another practical feature for your bedroom: mattresses with removable covers that are easy to clean. The Swissflex 'fresh & free' mattress cover, for example, is washable up to 60°C, dries quickly and prevents the growth of mould and bacteria. Ideally suited for animal lovers and allergy sufferers! 
Do pets in bed affect the quality of sleep?
Another argument often mentioned against pets in bed is the negative influence on the sleep quality. But is there really something to it? So far, researchers could not answer clearly whether a dog or cat in bed impair our sleep. Here the perceptions differ individually, so that everyone must decide for themselves whether they declare the bed an animal-free zone or not. It often becomes problematic when it gets too crowded in bed. You, your partner and your pet - that is when a generous lying area is needed. Because not only us humans, but also animals move during sleep. Especially with large dogs it is usually difficult to ensure sufficient freedom of movement for everyone. But also with cats and smaller dogs you should make sure that it does not get too cramped in bed. If you have a very light sleep, it may also be a better choice not to let your dog or cat sleep in your bed so that you are not disturbed by their noises, movements or nocturnal excursions.
Why pets in bed also have positive effects
Now what speaks for pets in bed at all? Dogs and cats are faithful companions, who can give us a feeling of security just by being close. If your better half is out of town or you live alone, a pet can be especially good for you as a nighttime cuddling partner. With the fluffy bed neighbour, you feel well looked after and can relax with a good feeling. Many animals also seek human contact, especially dogs that are kept alone. Since dogs are actually pack animals, masters or mistresses are required to show them security and affection. If, however, the bedroom door is shut in front of their nose, the furry friends may feel excluded.
Finding the best solution for everyone
Hygiene and sufficient space are important conditions for pets to be allowed to sleep in bed. If you share the bed with your partner, you should absolutely agree on the four-legged friends in the bed. If one of you opposes a shared bed, you should respect this! It is also important to keep an eye on your sleep quality and the behaviour of your pet. If you are increasingly disturbed in your sleep or your pet develops behavioural problems, you should separate the sleeping areas. Just be careful: If your pet likes the shared bed more than you do, re-educating him or her will require perseverance, patience and consistency. So think about your decision carefully. And do not forget, even puppies will eventually grow up and have a mind of their own! A good solution for everyone can therefore be a separate cat or dog bed in the bedroom. This way your four-legged friend is close to you even at night, but everyone has their own realm to relax in.