According to the RSPCA there are approximately 4.2 million pet dogs in the country equating to 19 dogs for every 100 people. For the majority of Australians, a pet is a companion with 7 out of 10 pet owners believing that companionship is the most significant motivation behind getting a pet. As far as dog breeds are concerned, French Bulldogs and Dachshunds are the most popular Down Under according to a survey conducted in the second half of 2016.

Dogs have long been known as man's best friend but what is not such common knowledge are the countless physical and mental benefits having a dog can have. Dr Clare Ballingall, spokeswoman for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners says there is an increasing body of research that points to pets improving human health.  The mere presence of a dog can also lift our spirits and help us relax, an occurrence which is amplified when we allow our dogs to share our sleeping spaces with us as well.

Benefits of sleeping with your dachshund
Anyone who has ever cuddled with a dog can probably confirm just how soothing the experience is.   Small things such as feeling their fur and listening to the dog's breathing can be very comforting. When this feeling is extended into bedtime it may provide additional benefits such as improved sleep and a strengthened bond between dog and human. Sleeping with your dog  impacts your sleep quality tremendously.

They can improve your quality of sleep
Very often the mental and physical benefits that are brought on by a dog's presence in bed can result in improved sleep.  Dog owners generally experience a sense of calm and well-being when their canine companions join them in bed.  Interestingly enough, some individuals suffering from insomnia have also reported better sleep once they started sharing their beds with a dog. While it is not guaranteed that sleeping with your dog will change your sleeping habits, it is definitely worth a try and will provide both you and your furry friend with a lot of happiness.

They reduce anxiety
Dachshunds are extremely attentive by nature and love being close to their human companions.  This, paired with the general comfort a dog provides, can act as a significant stress and anxiety reliever.  It is for this very reason that the use of therapy dogs has become so popular. Therapy dogs will often follow their companions into bed for therapeutic reasons making it fairly common sense that your pet is able to provide you with the same benefits.

The provide warmth and a sense of security
Despite being fairly small in size, dachshunds are comfortable creatures with their rhythmic breathing, warm bodies and love for close physical contact being enough to manifest feelings of warmth and comfort.  Dachshunds have a very keen sense of protection, which together with their superb sense of sound can evoke potent feelings of well-being and security.  We are at our most vulnerable when asleep with break-ins and other crimes occurring during the night. Even a small dog can provide a much-needed added layer of security during these times.

Apart from the benefits you as human will enjoy from sleeping with your dog, your canine companion will benefit as well.  Your dachshund loves spending times with you and misses you deeply when you are not around. Nothing will make their little doggie heart happier than being able to share the comfort of your bed with you.

Written by Sally Writes

Photo by Artem Sapegin on Unsplash