For many Australians, pets are family. Whether it is a loyal dog curled up at your feet or a cat snuggling under the doona, sharing a bed with your pet can feel like second nature. But is this beloved habit helping or hurting your sleep? The answer is not so simple. According to sleep experts, the impact of co-sleeping with pets depends on a few key factors — your sleep style, your pet’s behaviour, and how well your mattress supports you both.
One of the most common concerns about sleeping with pets is sleep disruption. Animals are naturally lighter sleepers, and they often move around, stretch, snore or even jump on and off the bed throughout the night. This can lead to fragmented sleep, especially if your pet is large or restless. Research from the Mayo Clinic Sleep Center found that over half of pet owners who let their pets sleep in bed reported some sleep disturbance caused by their furry companions.
However, that is only part of the picture. For many people, the presence of a pet provides emotional comfort and reduces stress. This sense of safety and companionship can help lower cortisol levels and improve sleep quality, particularly for people who live alone or struggle with anxiety. In fact, studies suggest that sleeping near a well-behaved pet can promote relaxation and faster sleep onset.
The key is setting boundaries that work for both you and your pet. If your dog tends to hog the covers or your cat pounces at 3 am, consider placing a pet bed next to your own. This way, they are still close without interfering with your sleep cycles. If your pet does sleep in bed with you, ensure your mattress offers motion isolation to prevent every toss or turn from disturbing your rest.
At Sleep Republic our hybrid mattresses are designed to reduce partner disturbance — whether your bedmate is human or four-legged. With responsive pocket springs and comfort layers that absorb movement, you are far less likely to feel your pet shifting during the night. The mattress also features breathable materials like gel-infused memory foam and natural latex, which help regulate temperature even with a warm pup curled beside you.
Another factor to consider is cleanliness and allergies. While many pets are clean and well-groomed, all animals shed dander and bring in dust and pollen from outdoors. If you are prone to allergies or have sensitive skin, this can impact your sleep quality. Using a mattress protector is a smart way to keep your sleep space clean and extend the life of your mattress.
So, should you sleep with your pet? It depends. If both you and your pet sleep soundly together, and your mattress supports that experience, then enjoy the cuddles. But if your pet’s habits are leaving you tired or sore, it might be time to rethink the arrangement.
Either way, choosing the right mattress is essential. A supportive, comfortable sleep surface makes it easier to share your space without sacrificing rest. Try the Sleep Republic mattress risk-free for 150 nights, and discover how good sleep can be — no matter who is snoozing beside you.
