Study Reveals Women Sleep Better Next to Dogs Than Men
It’s no secret that a good night’s sleep is essential for health, and researchers have long explored the best ways to achieve quality rest. Forget about chamomile tea or pre-bed meditation—recent research suggests that women actually sleep better next to their dogs. A study conducted by Canisius College in New York has shown that dogs are superior sleep partners to both humans and cats.
Dr. Christy Hoffman, an animal behaviorist and lead researcher, shared the findings, saying, “Women often rate dogs as better bed companions than either cats or human partners, reporting that their dogs improve their sleep quality.”
Research Findings: Women and Dogs as Bed Partners
The study surveyed nearly 1,000 women across the United States, revealing some interesting statistics: 55% of participants shared their bed with at least one dog, 31% with at least one cat, and 57% with a human partner.
Dr. Hoffman explained that dogs seem to be better bed companions because their sleeping patterns align more closely with humans compared to cats. “Dogs’ sleep cycles are more similar to ours, which is one reason they might make better sleeping partners than cats,” she said.
While these similar sleep patterns could be beneficial, more research is needed to fully understand the impact. However, Dr. Hoffman has some theories on why dogs may be the ideal bed companions. “Dogs are more adaptable to their owners’ sleep schedules than human partners, who often go to bed and wake up at different times. These differences can disrupt sleep, but dogs seem to adjust more easily,” she said.
The Role of Routine and Security
Dogs also benefit from having a structured routine, which includes regular activities like morning walks. This structure helps their owners maintain consistent sleep schedules, which in turn improves sleep quality.
Another advantage dogs have over other bedmates is their stillness during sleep. Unlike fidgety human partners, dogs tend to remain in one place throughout the night, which many women in the study found helpful. Cats, on the other hand, tend to move on and off the bed, which can be disruptive.
“Dog owners tend to have more consistent bedtime and wake-up routines compared to cat owners,” Dr. Hoffman noted.
One of the most important reasons dogs are considered great sleep companions is their ability to provide a sense of security. Many dog owners feel comforted knowing their dog will alert them to any potential threats, such as intruders. Cats, however, are less likely to offer the same sense of protection.
The Perfect Sleep Partner?
While the study suggests that dogs might be the ideal sleep partners, it’s important to remember that these benefits are subjective. Some dogs might snore or create heat, which could interfere with sleep quality. Additionally, many cat owners find their pets beneficial for sleep.
This research was based on the participants’ personal perceptions of how their pets affect their sleep quality. For more conclusive results, future studies will need to use objective methods, such as wearable devices to track sleep quality. Dr. Hoffman emphasized that further research into the role of pets in sleep quality is valuable, especially as more American households share their beds with animals.