Whether you’re the big spoon or the little spoon, having someone to cuddle in bed is undeniably nice. But what happens if that someone has four legs and a tail?

The debate on whether owners should let their pets sleep with them has been going on for years… and today we’re going to solve it for you once and for all.

Will they send you barking mad from sleep deprivation?

A study conducted by the US Mayo Clinic last year found that sleeping with a dog in your room resulted in an above satisfactory night’s sleep, better so than sleeping alone.

We hate to admit it, but the result also found that by letting your dog sleep ON or (dare we admit it) IN the bed with you, you are less likely to have such a peaceful sleep with test subjects waking up throughout the night more frequently.

I’m sure we’ve all experienced what doggos are like when they’re fast asleep dreaming of long sandy beaches and the tennis ball that’s just out of their reach.

If only they could just run a little bit faster and kick those legs a little more – it’s not hard to imagine what was keeping bed cohabiters up all night, especially those with pups that snore!

Filling the gap with fur is good for your health

Dogs often provide emotional companionship for their owners, so the habit of filling the empty side of your bed with a fur-baby might not be so uncommon.

The unconditional love you receive from your pet has been proven to physically and mentally improve the wellbeing of people with mental health problems and illnesses, as well as those dealing with trauma or bereavement.

Having a pooch near your pillow has even been found to improve survival rates from heart attacks!

If you are sharing your bed with your pup make sure they’re up to date with all vaccinations, medications and flea treatments in order to ensure continued health for both of you.

A creature’s comfort may help you sleep better

In the US Mayo Clinic study lead author, Dr Lois Krahn, said having a pet in the bedroom can both provide comfort for owners as well as improve their quality of sleep.

“To have a purring cat or a well-behaved dog nearby may be very relaxing and conducive to sleep… provided everyone sleeps well, it can be a benefit,” Dr Lois said.

“The relationship between people and their pets has changed over time, which is likely why many people, in fact, do sleep with their pets in the bedroom.

“Today, many pet owners are away from their pets for much of the day, so they want to maximise their time with them when they are home.

“Having them in the bedroom at night is an easy way to do that. And now, pet owners can find comfort knowing it shouldn’t negatively impact their sleep – and may even improve it.”

So there you have it. Should you let your dog sleep on the bed with you? Well, that’s up to you and how much you like your sleep.

But should you let your dog sleep in your room with you?

Absolutely!

If you think you might have room in your bed for one more, head over here to see all of our animals currently available for adoption.