There are many treatments for insomnia. You can also consider another option. You might find that having a dog helps with your insomnia.
Signs Your Dog May be Helping You to Sleep
You may be surprised to learn that your dog can help you get a good night’s sleep, regardless of whether you have one or not. Many people find their dog helpful when they have insomnia. There are many signs that your dog may be helping you fall asleep. You may feel more relaxed around your dog, more secure with them, or even find that their gentle breathing at night helps to relax you.
People can feel anxious at night which can impact their ability to fall asleep. Having your dog can reduce anxiety and promote calmness. You may also find that the warmth your dog emits can help you fall asleep. Your dog sleeping on your bed can help you sleep better. Having your dog around can help you feel calmer.
What kind of body language does your dog use to help you relax and fall asleep more easily? Some people find that having a dog to cuddle up to at night is enough to promote relaxation, calm, and warmth, while others feel secure and protected. Some people love their dogs to lick their faces or hands, which provides more comfort and security. It is important to pay attention to body language. This can indicate where your dog likes to sleep. Some dogs are more comfortable jumping on the bed while their tails are wagging. Some dogs may prefer to sleep on their own beds or on the ground.
You can also look for other signs to see if your dog is sleeping with you. You may feel calmer when you know your dog is protecting you and will growl or bark if something is wrong. You may feel more relaxed if your dog is happy and wags their tail.
The History Behind Dogs and Human Sleep
Historically, dogs have always been used for a purpose, often as working dogs in various industries. Of course, many dogs are still used as working dogs such as service and military dogs, guide dogs, and farm dogs. However, they are also now amongst the most popular pets and have become part of the family unit. People these days have dogs to keep them safe in their own homes, but also as companions. This ability to provide companionship and love to owners is one of the things that can play a part in how easily you are able to sleep.
You may find that your insomnia can be greatly reduced if you have a dog to guard your home and family. Domesticated pets dogs have allowed owners to feel more secure, loved and protected over the years. This can help you sleep better. These reassuring feelings don’t have to come from your dog. For some, just knowing it’s there can suffice.
Research on Why Dogs Help With Insomnia
There are various factors that researchers believe help people to sleep more easily when there is a dog around. One of the key ones is the increased sense of security that you feel when your pooch is guarding you and your home all night.
There are other factors that can make a difference, such as your dog’s sound at night, their companionship, and their warmth. People who are anxious about sleeping alone at night often suffer from insomnia. However, having your dog around can be very reassuring.
Train your dog to sleep in the bedroom
Whether you already have a dog or you are thinking of getting one, you may need to provide some training if you want them to sleep in the bedroom with you. Some people are happy and more relaxed just knowing that the dog is around while others prefer to be able to see and even talk to their dog to help them get to sleep. If you prefer the latter, you need to make sure that your dog is also comfortable about sleeping in your room or on the bed, particularly if they have been used to sleeping in another location. This is where gradual training can help.
It’s a good idea for your dog to be able to sleep in your bedroom at night. This involves moving their bedding. If you wish, you can put their bed in another area during the day and bring it in at night.
This will encourage your dog to come with you to bed each night, and help them get used to their new environment. Once your dog is more comfortable sleeping in the bedroom, then you can encourage your dog to sleep on the bed.
You must first make your dog feel comfortable when they are sleeping on your bed. You may find that some dogs don’t want to lie on your bed. This is okay. You can quickly tell if your dog is comfortable jumping up by patting the bed. If they seem reluctant to jump on the bed, you can give them a treat.