You’re not the only person who has ever preferred your pet to a human snuggle partner before bed, and it may be improving your quality of sleep. Women who sleep with their dogs report feeling more secure, comfortable, and having higher-quality sleep than those who share their beds with cats or even human partners, according to a Canisius College study.
These are the findings of the study, which polled 962 American women: 55% of people sleep with at least one dog. 31% of people sleep with cats. 57% of people share a bed with a human.
It appears, however, that dogs are winning the game of bedtime. Due to their protective nature and capacity to serve as early warning systems, women reported that dogs made them feel more secure and caused less disruption during the night. In addition, dogs typically sleep for around 75% of the night, which makes them more conducive to sleep than cats, who are by nature more active at night.
In contrast, cats received the lowest scores for security and comfort. Several women even claimed that, rather than sleeping in the bed, they slept better with their dog just in the same room.
Your best option for a peaceful night may be a dog with four paws and a wagging tail if you’re deciding between a clinging cat, a snoring partner, or a devoted puppy.
Would you get a dog today? Science says you probably should.
