Your dog in bed may boost happiness—but there’s a hygiene catch

Allowing your canine companion to share your bed can increase happiness, but hygiene concerns must not be overlooked. Anjali Kalachand, a pet nutritionist, fondly recalls snuggling with her dog after a long day. The rhythmic breathing, warmth, and soft touch of her pet released oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine, resulting in a healthier and happier human.

Dr. Rachna Khanna Singh, a mental wellness expert, concurs, stating that spending time with animals boosts feel-good hormones and decreases stress hormones. However, maintaining proper hygiene is crucial to ensure both the human's and pet's safety. Ensure your pet is clean, check for ticks and fleas, and wash bedding regularly. Although healthy adults generally benefit more than risk from sleeping with pets, allergies and other factors must be considered.