Science

Feel-Good Science: The Real Benefits of Cuddling Your Dog

Discover the heartwarming science that makes cozying up with your pup a healthful habit.

3 min read

Snuggle Science: Why Sleeping With Your Dog Is Basically a Wellness Hack

Let’s be honest—once your dog gives you those eyes at bedtime, resistance is futile. But if you’ve ever wondered whether letting your pup sleep in your bed is actually a good idea, science is totally on your side. From cozy cuddles to calming vibes, here’s what research says about why having your dog snoozing next to you is one of the best things ever.

1. The Love Hormone Hits Different Snuggling with your dog doesn’t just feel good—it is good. When you curl up together, both of your brains release oxytocin (aka the “bonding hormone”), which is linked to feelings of love, trust, and lower stress levels.💞 Translation? Sharing your bed = stronger emotional connection and warm fuzzy feelings all around.

2. Stress? Never Heard of Her
Dogs have a magical ability to make everything feel okay—especially when you’re trying to unwind. Their steady breathing, soft snoring, and chill presence can actually lower your cortisol levels, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Think of them as four-legged emotional support blankets. 🐶🛏️

3. Better Sleep, Fur Real
Turns out, your dog might be the best sleep aid you’ve ever had. Studies show that sleeping with a pup can help you feel more secure and reduce restlessness.
So if you’ve been tossing and turning lately, try adding a Bernedoodle to your bedtime routine. (Highly recommend.)

4. Cozy Vibes Only
Dogs are basically little space heaters with tails. Their body warmth helps create the perfect cozy-cool balance for quality sleep. No overheating, just pure comfort.
Add a fluffy blanket and you’ve got yourself the ultimate snooze setup. 🌙💤

5. Built-In Night Watch
Let’s not forget your dog’s secret superpower: keeping you safe. Even when they’re asleep, dogs are low-key on guard. That protective energy can help you feel more relaxed and reduce nighttime anxiety.
It’s like having your own personal security system, only way cuter.

A Few Things to Keep It Cozy
If you’re going to co-sleep with your pup, a little prep goes a long way:

  • Make sure you’ve got enough space
  • Use pet-friendly bedding
  • Set gentle boundaries (like a designated sleep spot)

✨ Comfort for both human and doggo = the dreamiest sleep ever.

The Bottom Line?
Snuggling up with your pup isn’t just a sweet nighttime tradition—it’s backed by science. From stress relief to better sleep to a serious oxytocin boost, the benefits are real.
So go ahead, fluff the pillows, cue the cuddles, and let your dog curl up close.

Sweet dreams are better when they're next to your puppers. 🐾💕