Sleeping in the same room as your dog does not necessarily harm your sleep, but sharing the same mattress reduces the quality and efficiency of your rest.

noli's read

This advice is based on research, notably a study published in 'Mayo Clinic Proceedings' (2017), which is an observational study of 40 adults and their dogs. This study revealed that while the presence of the dog in the room is often perceived as reassuring, direct cohabitation on the mattress is associated with more frequent interruptions. Research confirms that the animal's movements and changes in position can fragment sleep, thereby reducing the efficiency of rest. Matthew Walker remains cautious in distinguishing between presence in the room and sharing bedding, a scientifically relevant nuance. It is important to note that these results are observational and that the subjective perception of comfort can vary greatly from one individual to another. Therefore, there is no universal 'truth,' but rather a trade-off to be tested according to one's own sensitivity to nocturnal awakenings.

the sources

No named source held this one up — that absence is part of the verdict.