It’s no secret that getting good sleep is essential for maintaining both mental and physical health. Numerous studies have been conducted to better understand what contributes to high-quality rest, from bedtime routines to environmental factors. While practices like sipping chamomile tea or meditating before bed may help, new research has revealed a surprising factor that can significantly improve sleep quality—particularly for women. It turns out that sleeping next to a dog can be more beneficial for women than sleeping next to a man or even a cat.

This intriguing discovery comes from a study conducted at Canisius College in New York, where researchers sought to uncover how different bed companions—human or animal—impact women’s sleep. The findings, led by animal behaviorist Christy Hoffman, Ph.D., suggest that dogs may be the ideal sleep partners for women, providing not only comfort but also a higher quality of rest.

The Study: Women Sleep Better with Dogs

Hoffman and her team surveyed nearly 1,000 women across the United States to understand the dynamics of their sleeping habits and the effects of sharing their bed with different types of companions. The results were striking: 55% of the participants shared their bed with at least one dog, 31% with at least one cat, and 57% with a human partner. Among these women, dogs were rated as the most favorable bed companions, providing a better night’s sleep than both cats and humans.

But why are dogs so effective at helping women get better sleep? Hoffman’s research offers several insights. First, dogs have sleep patterns that more closely resemble human sleep cycles, especially compared to cats. Unlike cats, who are naturally nocturnal and prone to waking up and moving around during the night, dogs tend to align their major sleep periods with those of their human owners.

“The difference between dogs and cats is not surprising because dogs’ major sleep periods tend to coincide more closely with humans’ than do cats,’” Hoffman explained. This synchronization means that dogs are less likely to disrupt their owners’ sleep, making them less of a disturbance than the average cat, who may jump on and off the bed throughout the night.

A Sense of Security

One of the most significant reasons why women sleep better with dogs than with other companions, including human partners, is the sense of security that dogs provide. Hoffman’s research indicated that women feel safer when sleeping next to their dogs, thanks to the protective instincts that dogs naturally exhibit. Whether it’s barking at potential intruders or simply being present in the home, dogs give their owners a feeling of comfort and reassurance.

“Some dog owners may take comfort in the thought that their dog will alert them in the case of an intruder or other type of emergency; furthermore, a dog’s bark may deter a potential intruder,” Hoffman explained. “A cat is less likely to take on this role and so may not provide psychological comfort in the same way a dog might.”

For many women, this enhanced sense of safety contributes significantly to their ability to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Feeling secure and protected is a crucial aspect of relaxation, and dogs excel at offering this level of emotional support, making them the ideal sleep companions.

Takeaway: The Power of Dogs in Sleep

While this study highlights the unique benefits that dogs bring as bed companions, the findings ultimately reflect the individual bonds that people share with their pets. Whether or not dogs are objectively the best bed partners, one thing is clear: they provide comfort, routine, security, and emotional support—qualities that can significantly enhance the quality of sleep for many women.

So, if you’re a dog owner looking to improve your sleep, embracing your furry friend as a sleep companion might just be the solution. The next time you’re struggling to get a good night’s rest, consider trading in restless human partners or unpredictable felines for the steady, calming presence of your loyal dog. It might be the key to achieving the restful, uninterrupted sleep you’ve been searching for.