You are not alone.
At least 50% of dog owners let their dogs sleep with them – a number that experts say has likely grown since COVID-19 as people seek the comfort, calm and security that comes with cuddling with a dog. Veterinarian Michelle Martinez told Inside Edition, “I have a hard time finding someone that doesn’t sleep with their dog.”
Dr. Martinez said there are actual scientific benefits to sleeping with your dog. “Oxytocin is a good enzyme hormone that comes out when people are cuddling their dogs," she says. "It causes a sense of relaxation and calmness and a decrease in depression, loneliness and insomnia.”