Dogs Love Snuggling Under Blankets
It’s no surprise that dogs enjoy snoozing under the covers with their human companions. According to Why Dogs Like Sleeping Under Covers, this behavior stems from ancestral canine instincts. In the wild, dogs would burrow into dens and caves for warmth and protection. Snuggling under blankets taps into this natural tendency.
The enclosed, cozy space under the covers can provide comfort and security for anxious or fearful dogs. According to Why Do Dogs Like to Sleep Under Blankets, breeds like terriers have an especially strong burrowing instinct. Allowing them to sleep tucked under blankets can help relieve stress and anxiety.
Health Benefits of Letting Your Dog Sleep Under Covers
According to expert veterinarians, there are key health benefits to letting dogs sleep under the covers. One main benefit is temperature regulation. The warmth of being under a blanket helps the dog regulate their body temperature, especially important for short hair breeds [1]. As dogs do not sweat like humans, the insulation of a blanket can help moderate their temperature.
Another benefit is psychological comfort. Sleeping under covers mimics the feelings of closeness and bonding dogs experienced as puppies sleeping near their mothers and littermates [2]. The enclosed, cozy environment gives dogs a sense of safety and relaxation. Just like humans find comfort in being tucked under a blanket, dogs seem to enjoy this instinctually from puppyhood.
Allowing dogs access to blankets supports their health, comfort and overall wellbeing. As long as safety precautions are taken, sharing your bed and blankets with a dog can be mutually beneficial.
[1] https://wagwalking.com/behavior/why-dogs-like-sleeping-under-covers
[2] https://www.woofblankets.com/blogs/woof-diaries/why-does-my-dog-like-to-sleep-under-the-covers
Potential Dangers of Dogs Sleeping Under Blankets
While sleeping under the covers is generally safe for dogs, there are some potential risks to be aware of. One danger is the risk of overheating. Dogs are not able to regulate their body temperature as well as humans, and being surrounded by blankets can cause them to get too hot, especially if they are smaller breeds [1]. Signs of overheating include panting, restlessness, excessive drooling, and reddened gums and skin. Overheating can progress to heat stroke, which requires emergency veterinary treatment.
Another potential danger is difficulty breathing if a dog’s head becomes fully covered by blankets. A dog’s nose and mouth can be blocked by bedding material, which cuts off their air supply. This is most likely to occur if the dog is sleeping between its owner’s legs or near their torso under thick covers. Just a small opening is needed to allow fresh airflow. Monitoring your dog’s location under the covers can prevent accidental smothering.
Tips for Safely Letting Your Dog Sleep Under Covers
If you want to allow your dog to sleep under the covers with you, there are some simple tips to follow to keep them safe and comfortable:
Leave your dog’s head uncovered when they are under the blankets. This ensures they have plenty of fresh air to breathe and prevents overheating. As cute as it may look to have your pup fully buried, their nose and mouth should remain outside the covers.
Check on your dog periodically throughout the night to monitor their temperature. Gently feel their belly or ears to see if they feel excessively warm. If so, uncover them further or have them come out from under the blankets.
According to one source, “Make sure to check on your pup every now and then to ensure they aren’t getting too hot under there.” (https://www.softminkyblankets.com/blogs/blog/why-do-dogs-sleep-under-blankets)
Let your dog choose how much coverage they want. Don’t force them to stay covered if they try to come out from under the blankets. Pay attention to cues if they are uncomfortable or too warm.
Alternative Ways for Dogs to Feel Secure and Cozy
While many dogs love burrowing under the covers, there are other ways to help your dog feel safe and relaxed without letting them sleep under blankets where they may overheat. Here are some good alternatives:
(https://animalsmatter.com/blogs/news/dog-friendly-house-tips-how-to-make-your-dog-feel-comfortable-in-every-room)
Instead of letting your dog under the covers with you, provide them with a cozy sleeping space of their own to fulfill their denning instinct without the overheating risks. Pay attention to your dog’s preferences and create a space tailored to their needs. With the right bedding, your dog can feel safe and relaxed without needing to be covered by your blankets.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
It’s important for dog owners to be aware of the signs of heatstroke in dogs, as it can be a life-threatening condition. Some of the most common symptoms of heatstroke in dogs include:
- Heavy panting and difficulty breathing – Dogs pant to lower their body temperature. Excessive panting and labored breathing can indicate overheating.
- Excessive drooling – Dogs drool more when they are overheated as an effort to cool themselves down.
- Bright red gums – The normal color of a dog’s gums is pink. Red, inflamed gums signal overheating.
- Rapid heartbeat – Heatstroke places strain on a dog’s cardiovascular system. A heart rate over 120 bpm can indicate overheating.
- Vomiting, diarrhea – Heatstroke can cause gastrointestinal distress in dogs.
Other symptoms may include lethargy, uncoordinated movements, and collapse. If a dog is displaying these signs on a hot day, immediate action should be taken to lower the dog’s body temperature and get veterinary attention. Left untreated, heatstroke can lead to organ damage, seizures, and even death. Dog owners need to know the symptoms and act quickly at the first signs of this dangerous condition.
Sources:
https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/heatstroke
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heat-stroke-in-dogs
When to Call the Vet
While most dogs can safely sleep under blankets, there are some warning signs that indicate a medical issue. If your dog seems to be struggling to breathe when under the covers, such as gasping for air or making distressed noises, it’s important to uncover them immediately and call your vet. Dogs who are overheating can also exhibit symptoms like excessive panting, drooling, reddened gums, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any of these signs, especially if your dog was previously sleeping buried in blankets, take action right away to cool them down with water and fans and contact your veterinarian. According to this source, it’s very unlikely dogs can get suffocated from sleeping under blankets, but owners should still monitor them closely for any respiratory distress. When in doubt, call your vet to be safe. They can advise you on whether your pup needs an urgent medical visit or if you can safely monitor them at home.
Creating a Safe Sleep Environment
Creating the right environment for your dog to sleep in is crucial for their health and comfort. Make sure your dog’s sleeping area is not too hot or too cold. According to The American Kennel Club[1], room temperature should not exceed 75°F for your dog’s sleeping area. Be careful not to overdress your dog with too many blankets. Provide access to fresh water near their bed as well.
Choosing bedding that regulates their body heat is ideal. Orthopedic dog beds or cooling mats work well. Avoid fluffy or heavy comforters that may cause your dog to overheat. If your dog is short-haired, a light blanket is usually sufficient. The AKC recommends periodically checking your dog’s belly to make sure they are not too hot or sweaty while sleeping under blankets[1].
With proper temperature regulation and breathable, appropriate bedding, your dog can safely and comfortably curl up under the covers for a good night’s sleep.
Monitoring Your Dog’s Comfort
It’s important to pay attention to your dog’s sleep positions and behaviors when allowing them to sleep under the covers (1). Observe if they are sleeping in their usual curled up position or if they appear distressed. Look for signs of overheating like panting or restlessness. Also check that your dog can easily enter and exit the bedding without obstruction (2). If your dog seems distressed or unable to move around, gently uncover them.
Monitor your dog’s comfort throughout the night, especially the first few times they sleep under blankets. With time, you’ll learn your dog’s signals for when they need fresh air or want to be uncovered. Never force your dog to stay covered if they try to move away (3). Overall, being attentive to your dog’s needs and preferences will ensure safe, cozy sleep under the covers.
Sources:
(1) https://www.quora.com/How-do-dogs-not-suffocate-sleeping-under-my-blanket-at-night
(2) https://highpaw.eu/blogs/news/the-reasons-why-your-dog-sleeps-under-the-covers-and-why-high-quality-dog-beds-are-important
(3) https://khpet.com/blogs/dogs/is-it-safe-for-my-dog-to-sleep-under-the-covers
Enjoying Healthy Snuggles
Allowing your dog to sleep under the covers with you can be a special bonding opportunity. The physical closeness and warmth can help create a deeper connection between owner and pup. Dogs are pack animals that often find comfort in physical touch, so having this nightly snuggle ritual can lead to a happier, more secure dog.
Anxious or nervous dogs especially benefit from sleeping under blankets with their owners. The constant presence of their human and the enclosed, den-like environment under the covers can lead to a calmer temperament and better sleep. This can be better than leaving an anxious dog alone all night or having them sleep in a crate.
Making bedtime under the covers a consistent routine can also be a fun sleep ritual for both owner and pup. Dogs often enjoy burrowing into blankets and curling up next to their favorite person. Owners get the satisfaction of providing comfort and security. Just be sure to monitor your dog’s temperature regulation and set some boundaries so you both get a good night’s rest.
