Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for maintaining optimal health, and researchers are constantly studying ways to improve sleep quality. While chamomile tea and meditation before bed have been suggested in the past, recent research from Canisius College in New York State has found that women sleep better next to dogs than humans or cats.
The lead researcher of the study, Christy Hoffman, Ph.D., an animal behaviorist, surveyed nearly one thousand women living in the United States to come to these findings. The results showed that 55% of the participants shared their bed with at least one dog, and 31% shared it with at least one cat. In addition, 57% of these women shared a bed with a human partner, while the rest did not.
So, what makes dogs the ideal bed partners for women? Hoffman discovered that dogs’ sleeping patterns are more similar to humans than those of cats. Dogs tend to have major sleep periods that coincide more closely with humans. This similarity in sleep patterns may lead to better sleep quality for women.
Furthermore, dogs are better at accommodating their owners’ sleep schedules compared to human bed partners. It is common for human bed partners to have different bedtimes and wake-up times, which can disrupt sleep. On the other hand, dogs can adapt more readily to their owner’s schedule, ensuring a smoother sleep routine.
Dogs also provide a sense of stillness and security during sleep. Unlike fidgety partners, dogs tend to stay on the bed throughout the night. Cats, on the other hand, often come and go, potentially causing disturbances. Additionally, dog owners maintain more consistent bedtime and wake time schedules compared to cat owners, which further contributes to better sleep quality.
The sense of security that dogs provide is another significant advantage. Many dog owners find comfort in knowing that their loyal companions will alert them in case of an emergency. A dog’s bark can even deter potential intruders. Cats, on the other hand, are less likely to fulfill this protective role, which may not provide the same psychological comfort as a dog.
Although the study suggests that dogs make perfect slumber buddies, individual preferences and circumstances can vary. Dogs might snore or make the bed too hot for some individuals. It’s important to remember that the research was based on the participants’ perception of their pets’ effects on sleep quality and duration. Further objective research is needed to definitively establish dogs as superior sleeping partners.
Nonetheless, the study highlights the value of continuing research in this area, considering the significant number of American households with pets. Understanding the specific contexts in which pets positively impact sleep quality and the potential downsides of co-sleeping with pets can provide valuable insights.
In conclusion, while dogs have shown to be beneficial for women’s sleep quality according to this study, personal preferences should be taken into account. Future research using devices like Fitbit can objectively track sleep quality in different sleeping conditions. So, whether it’s a faithful canine companion or another sleep partner, finding the right balance for a good night’s sleep remains essential.
