Dear Beagle Buddy: You will find trainers and behaviorists on both sides of the fence about this issue. Some say absolutely not and others offer great ways to make it work for human and canine. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of letting the pup on the pillow.

Advantages

It feels good to have your best buddy by your side: This can be an incredibly comforting and emotional experience. The ultimate bonding experience.

Great alarm system: No one will sneak up on you while sleeping. The close proximity of the dog to you is the ultimate protection.

They provide added warmth: Have you ever heard the expression of “a three dog night?” That refers to a night that is so cold you need three dogs to keep you warm.

Ultimate comfort for your dog.

Disadvantages

Dogs can become overprotective of one partner: If this behavior is allowed to escalate the pup may growl or even bite the partner attempting to enter the bed or asking the dog to move over.

Ticks and other nasty bugs, like fleas, have an easier time jumping from the dog to you: In this region where Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses are rampant, the risk is high.

Dogs snore: They can wake you up at night and disrupt your sleep. A recent survey reported that as many at 21 percent of dogs snore at night keeping their owners awake.

Dirt: They can shed hair and leave other nastiness lodged in their paws from walks outside on your bed.

Allergies: If you suffer from them and dog dander adds to your discomfort, then the worst place for your dog is on your pillow.

If you decide to let the dog on the bed, I would suggest that it be as an “invitation only” instance and not an “automatic” right. This way you can decide when and where the dog can come on the bed and that puts you in charge. I have a snoring bitch that also likes to jump up and down on the bed all night long. I frequently put her in a crater near my bed to curb her behavior. She gets a clue that she was disturbing my nightly slumber and is better the next time around.

The best solution for her was getting a leather chair in the bedroom that she prefers because no one can kick her off in the middle of the night. And she doesn’t seem to snore when she is in the “donut” position all curled up on the chair. Plus a fleece blanket I use to save the chair picks up hair and dirt and is easy to clean.

Many dogs are very happy with their own beds located in the master bedroom where they can keep an eye on the master and have comfort as well. Many dog beds come with cedar chips inside which aid in keeping bugs away. Keeping puppy on the floor on his own bed also keeps the creepy crawlies out of your bed.

Whatever you decide about your puppy’s bed privileges just make sure you are consistent with the rule. The best of both worlds would be the invitation only compromise. Have the pup on the bed for shorter play periods or naps but give the pup a bed of his own for overnight and then both of you will sleep well.

              

Lisa Peterson, a breeder and exhibitor of Norwegian Elkhounds, is a Delegate to the American Kennel Club. Ask Lisa questions at elvemel@aol.com or P.O. Box 197, Newtown, CT 06470.