Sleep is essential for our health, and researchers are constantly exploring ways to improve sleep quality. A recent study has uncovered a surprising sleep companion that can help women sleep better: dogs. According to research conducted by Canisius College in New York State, women sleep more soundly next to dogs than men or even cats.
The study, led by animal behaviorist Christy Hoffman, Ph.D., surveyed nearly 1,000 women in the United States. The results showed that 55% of participants shared their bed with at least one dog, while 31% shared with at least one cat. Interestingly, 57% of these women also shared a bed with a human partner.
So, why do dogs make better sleep companions? Hoffman discovered that dogs’ sleeping patterns closely resemble those of humans, unlike cats. This similarity in sleep patterns may help dogs accommodate their human’s sleep schedule more effectively.
Additionally, dogs require a routine, such as morning walks, which can help their owners maintain a consistent sleep schedule. This routine can improve sleep quality and provide a sense of security and comfort.
In contrast, cats are more likely to disrupt sleep by moving on and off the bed during the night. Dogs, on the other hand, tend to stay still while sleeping, reducing the likelihood of sleep disruptions.
The study also suggests that dogs provide a sense of security and comfort to their owners, which can be particularly beneficial for women. This sense of security can lead to better sleep quality and duration.
While the study’s findings are promising, it’s essential to note that the benefits of sleeping with dogs are subjective and may vary from person to person. More research is needed to objectively track sleep quality and determine the contexts in which sleeping with pets can be beneficial or detrimental.
As Hoffman notes, “It will be valuable to continue this line of research so we can develop a clearer picture of the contexts under which pets and their presence in their owner’s bed may positively impact sleep quality.”
