People who sleep in the same bed as their pets typically display these 9 behaviors, according to psychology

If you’re anything like me, your bed isn’t just for you—it’s a shared space, complete with purring furballs and the occasional paw in your face.

Yep, I’m talking about sleeping with your pets.

Whether it’s your dog, your cat, or maybe even a rabbit, there’s something comforting about having your furry friends close by at night.

But have you ever wondered what it says about you?

Turns out, according to psychology, there are some interesting behaviors that people who sleep with their pets tend to display.

Let’s dive into the 9 behaviors that pet owners who share their beds tend to exhibit, and see if any of them hit home for you!

1) Comfort seekers

If you’re sharing your bed with a pet, you’re likely someone that values comfort and security above all else.

Why?

Well, psychologists suggest that this behavior often stems from our deep-rooted desire for warmth and a sense of security. Pets, especially dogs and cats, are known for their heat-generating abilities and their reassuring presence.

Cuddling up with your furry friend at night can provide that extra layer of comfort that helps you sleep better. It’s like having a live teddy bear to snuggle up with!

So, if you’re a pet co-sleeper, it’s likely you’re someone who finds solace in physical comfort. This could even extend to your daily life, where you might prefer cozy environments and familiar settings.

2) Affectionate by nature

As a pet parent who shares my bed with my adorable golden retriever, I’ve realized that this behavior is a reflection of my affectionate nature.

Psychology suggests that people who sleep with their pets are generally affectionate, and I can vouch for this. There’s something about the quiet companionship of my dog that brings out the warmth in me.

Whether it’s the way he snuggles up against me, or his soft snores that lull me to sleep, every interaction with him is filled with a sense of love and connection.

This affectionate streak isn’t just confined to my relationship with my dog, though. It extends to my interactions with other people as well.

I value deep connections and meaningful relationships, whether it’s with friends, family, or even colleagues.

If you’re someone who shares your bed with your pet, chances are you’re an affectionate person too. It’s all about cherishing those precious moments of love and closeness – even if it means dealing with a bit of dog hair on your pillows!

3) More empathetic

You might be surprised to learn that those who sleep with their pets often display higher levels of empathy.

Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, is a trait that many pet owners seem to possess in abundance.

A study published in Animal Welfare revealed that pet owners, particularly those who share their bed with their pets, tend to be more empathetic compared to those who don’t have pets.

This could be because caring for a pet requires understanding their needs and emotions, which can translate into better empathetic abilities towards others.

4) Creatures of habit

Those of us who sleep with our pets are often creatures of habit. This behavior indicates a preference for routine and structure.

Just like us, our pets thrive on routine.

They have their own internal clocks that tell them when it’s time to eat, sleep, or play. By syncing our sleep schedules with theirs, we’re not just accommodating their routines but reinforcing our own.

But this inclination towards routine can seep into other areas of our life. From maintaining a consistent work schedule to having a fixed workout regimen, we tend to stick to what’s familiar and predictable.

5) Heightened sense of responsibility

Sharing your bed with a pet is a commitment. It requires you to adjust your sleeping habits, make space, and even tolerate a bit of inconvenience at times. This behavior often reflects a heightened sense of responsibility.

Psychologists suggest that those who willingly take on these challenges are generally more responsible. They are aware of the commitment they have towards their pets and don’t shy away from it.

This sense of responsibility often extends beyond just pet care.

In your professional life, you might be the one who never misses a deadline. In personal relationships, you might be known for your reliability and dependability.

So you see, sharing your bed with your pet is not just about companionship, it’s shows you’re someone who can be counted on, no matter what.

6) Deep appreciation for companionship

At the heart of it all, those who share their bed with their pets have a deep appreciation for companionship.

Pets are not just animals to us, they’re family. Their presence soothes us, their love comforts us, and their loyalty inspires us.

This behavior demonstrates our need for relational bonds. It’s not about having a warm body next to us, but having a connection. A connection that is uncritical, unpretentious, and unconditional.

Pets don’t judge us. They don’t hold grudges. They simply offer their love and ask for ours in return. And for many of us, this bond is so profound that we willingly share our most personal space – our bed – with them.

7) Calmer under stress

In times of stress or anxiety, I’ve found that sharing my bed with my pet has been a calming influence. They provide a soothing presence, a listening ear, and a comforting touch that can often help alleviate feelings of worry or unease.

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Psychologists back this up, suggesting that people who have a close relationship with their pets often have better coping mechanisms for stress. The rhythmic pattern of a pet’s breathing, their steady heartbeat, or simply their warm presence can act as a natural stress-reliever.

This is something I’ve personally experienced many times.

Whether it’s work pressures, personal challenges, or the current state of the world causing stress, having my pet companion by my side at night has helped me navigate through tough times.

8) Tend to be more flexible

Sleeping with your pet requires a certain degree of flexibility. From making space for them in the bed to adjusting your sleep schedule to match theirs, it’s all about being adaptable.

Therefore, this behavior often reflects a person’s ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Those who share their bed with their pets are generally more open to making adjustments in their life to accommodate the needs of others.

This flexibility often extends to other areas of life as well.

At work, you might be the one who can easily adapt to new processes or changes in routine. In relationships, you might be known for your ability to compromise and find middle ground.

So, if you’re sharing your bed with your pet, it’s not just about cuddles and companionship. It’s also about embracing flexibility – a trait that can serve you well in various aspects of life.

9) Exhibit higher levels of happiness

Above all, people who sleep with their pets often exhibit higher levels of happiness.

Why?

There’s a certain joy that comes from sharing your life, including your sleeping space, with a furry friend.

Several studies have shown that pet owners report higher levels of satisfaction and happiness in their lives than people who do not own pets.

This could be attributed to the companionship, the unconditional love, or the simple pleasure of having a non-judgmental listener at the end of a long day.

So if you’re snuggled up with your pet at night, chances are you’re a happier person for it!

Final thoughts: It’s about connection

Whether you’re cuddling up with a cat, dog, or any other furry companion, sharing your bed with a pet says a lot about your personality and your relationship with them.

From an affectionate nature to a sense of emotional security, these 9 traits reflect how much our pets mean to us and how they become integral parts of our lives.

So, if you find yourself reaching for a blanket for two (or three), you’re not alone—many of us happily share our sleep space with our beloved animals. After all, pets aren’t just for playtime and walks; they bring comfort, joy, and a sense of companionship that can make our lives richer.

Embrace the bond you have with your pet, and rest easy knowing that your shared bed reflects a unique and loving connection.