Are you wondering whether it’s a good idea for your Chi to sleep in your bed?
This article will give you the answer. And equip you with some tips.
Read on to find out:
- Why it’s a good idea to sleep with your Chi (5 pros).
- 5 dangers of sleeping with your Chi (#2 is a must-read).
- 3 useful tips to implement and have a comfy sleep with your Chi.
- And way more…
Table of contents
Can my Chihuahua sleep in my bed?
Chihuahuas can sleep in your bed. They’re smaller than other dogs, allowing for ease of movement. They also sleep a lot more than other breeds: 12 – 23 hours depending on age. However, owners have to be careful too. Chihuahuas are more prone to injury and could become aggressive when awakened.
5 pros of letting your Chihuahua sleep in your bed
#1: It keeps your dog warm
Pets tend to approach their owner during the night because they feel cold.
This is especially true with Chihuahuas. They are less tolerant of changes in temperature.
Depending on how intimate you are with your pet, they may approach you just before you go to bed.
Thankfully, there are positions you can take to feel comfortable with each other. These include:
Cuddling
If you’re close enough with your Chihuahua, you can actually hug them while sleeping. Unlike spooning, you’re cuddling them while they’re on top of you. This is a great way of keeping things warm, plus it also increases intimacy.
Spooning
This position is fantastic for relaxing and also keeping body temperatures at a sufficient level. Spooning not only raises your pet’s temperature, but it also allows you to sleep quicker. This is because your dog’s breathing is rhythmic and monotonous, lulling you to sleep.
You can also have your dog spoon you. Since Chihuahuas have little limbs, you’ll have more space to move around.
Caution: Don’t move around abruptly to prevent panic or discomfort.
Curling position
Another position you can assume with your Chihuahua is to have your Chihuahua sleep on your chest while your arms are cupped together.
This position will help your Chihuahua curl up, which clears up their respiratory pathways.
It’s also intimate enough to keep them warm while giving them space to move
#2: It prevents destructive behavior
Pets with anxiety issues can become very bothersome. Separation anxiety will cause them to make as much noise to prevent you from leaving them.
Those with aggression problems may take out their anger on your family members.
One thing you can do in this case is to sleep with them, as intimacy can give your dog more reassurance.
However, since your pet may have underlying problems, you may need to go through certain rituals with your pet:
Turn the noise off
Make sure to pipe down before bedtime. All activity should cease within 1-2 hours to keep your dog comfortable. Ready your bed and prepare a napping mat for your dog. Keep the treats away during this time.
Take nightly walks
Chihuahuas need 30 minutes of exercise every day. Keep some of it open for nighttime to take your dog for nightly walks.
This will tire your dog enough for you to sleep peacefully.
Note: Do this at least 1-2 hours before bedtime.
Choose the right position
Before sleeping, decide on a position you’ll be most comfortable with. Do you want to snuggle with your pet or keep things separate? Put a pillow wall if you think you want more space.
If necessary, take meds or read a book before sleeping. Anxious dogs may still move even after playing, so do anything to make yourself sleep.
#3: You can grow closer together
Sleeping together is a terrific way to build rapport, especially with puppies.
Chihuahuas have a socialization period of 1 year. During this time, you want to expose them to as many things as possible, even during bedtime.
By sleeping together, you will develop an almost parent-child attachment.
There are three ways for you to sleep soundly with your pet in bed:
Snuggle
Snuggling is the most intimate way. It helps your pet get used to your smell more quickly. It’s also easier while they’re puppies because smaller Chihuahuas sleep longer.
However, be sure to make them poop or pee before going to bed so they won’t expel on you later.
You should also prepare a special blanket for them should either of you switch positions.
Place a puppy bed on your bed
Puppy beds allow you some more room to move without distracting your pet. The base has foam. This will keep them comfortable while reducing noise and vibrations when moving.
Make the bed as wide as possible for your Chihuahua to fit in different positions. Get a bed with a roof and blanket to protect them from the AC.
Place a crate beside your bed
Crates ensure that your pet can’t disturb you when changing positions. It also helps with crate training to help keep your pet comfortable. Make sure the crate is wide enough for them to move.
Note: Once training starts, most dogs can’t stay in their crate for more than 4 hours. For dogs, 1-year-old and above, prepare a ladder and pooping mat.
If possible, try to stay ahead of your pet and help them poop at a designated spot. Clean up their poop promptly if there are accidents.
#4: They’ll assume more comfortable positions
Sleep often expresses a dog’s health, but it also shows their mood.
For example, a dog that stretches themselves wide with their belly open wants to feel colder.
It can be an expression of joy, but it can also show injury to the hips or kneecaps.
When they sleep with their owner, however, they can be more comfortable, allowing them to nap however they please.
If you sleep with them, they will assume positions that won’t immediately make them go on all fours or bark.
These positions are also very open and inviting for owners who want to sleep with their pets.
Belly-up
They lie on their backs with their hind legs stretching outward. Their front legs are folded and bellies exposed, like roasted turkey.
Keep your hand on their belly for a few moments while they sleep. Belly rub them if necessary. Take advantage of this invitation for intimacy.
Side-Sleeping
This is their most comfortable position for spooning. Their front and hind legs are stretched forward without any tension.
Spoon with your dog for a few minutes until they’re no longer moving for more intimacy and comfort.
The Superman
A relaxed position with their hind and front legs spread long, as if to imitate the flying superhero.
Stroke their heads and backs to reassure them and make them sleep faster.
Reading tip: How Long Do Chihuahuas Sleep? Hours, Habits + 13 Tips
#5: They have softer snores
Chihuahuas are more discreet with their snores than bigger breeds.
This is because they have a short build and a slightly longer face. More air enters them as a result.
However, this also renders them vulnerable to Stridor. Chihuahuas with this condition can have high-pitched snores because their windpipes are blocked.
Their snores are so high-pitched that it’s actually adorable. Here’s a cute example you can watch:
The lack of tension in their breathing also means owners can focus on them to get better sleep.
While you spoon your Chihuahua, listen to how they breathe. Feel their bodies rise and fall with every breath for about 5 minutes.
Before long, your mind will be emptied of yesterday’s stresses and you will find quality sleep.
However, you may not want to hear them snore all the time.
If you want the snoring to stop, you can do a few things:
- Get a doggie bed.
- Remove dust from your bedroom.
- Give your chihuahua daily exercise.
- Add an extra foam for your Chihuahua’s head.
Caution: Snoring can also signify health problems. Your Chihuahua may be obese or have obstructions in their airways. Have your dog checked the first time you hear them snore.
5 cons of letting your Chihuahua sleep in your bed
#1: Chihuahuas may cause sleepless nights
Research has it that where your pet sleeps actually influences how well you’ll sleep.
Unfortunately, Chihuahuas can be a problem in bed considering they are very active dogs.
Although they’re still when sleeping, things can get out of hand if they don’t have the same schedule as you.
For starters, if you sleep on them, they might think they’re being ignored. This results in them pestering you.
You also have to give your Chihuahua more space because they prefer wide environments. They might climb on you if you don’t.
Here’s what you can do to help yourself with this problem:
Use the two-people rule
When sleeping together, only you and your pet should be in one bed. This maximizes the amount of space both of you can use. If you have another family member with you, don’t sleep with your pet.
Don’t sleep with your pet every day
Try to create some distance between your pet and yourself. You can sleep with them once or twice a week. Keep them in their crate for the remaining 5-6 days. This will keep them from being dependent on you.
Note: When tucking them in, look away when you’re done. Don’t come back or look at them, or they’ll think you still want to play.
Reduce movement with medication
Both you and your pet can take sleeping medication to help with the experience. This can be useful during your first few days together.
Caution: Chihuahuas can be fragile with medication. Arrange an appointment with your vet first. Find out the right dosage for your pet.
#2: It can worsen separation anxiety
A common myth about separation anxiety is that sleeping with your pet directly causes it. Thankfully, it doesn’t.
However, sleeping with your Chihuahua may worsen or predispose them to separation anxiety due to dependency.
Before sleeping with your pet, try observing your dog’s reactions when you leave first.
Test their independence by looking for separation-related symptoms such as:
- Pacing.
- Panting.
- Constant drooling.
- Following you around.
- Unnecessary chewing.
If they have these symptoms, you can still sleep with them to help them calm down. However, you should have your pet checked immediately so treatment can begin.
You should also train them for a large crate and move it around slowly. Bring it beside your bed first.
Slowly create distance each night until you reach your room’s furthest corner. Make notes of their reaction while gradually being moved away.
Give these notes to a professional and they will give you further advice for sleeping together.
While sleeping, there’s a possibility that you might injure your Chihuahua by accident.
Their legs could be squeezed while cuddling. You might even sleep over them if you roll the wrong way.
Common injuries that could result from sleeping carelessly include swelling and possible fractures.
As such, you should know how to give first-aid before you sleep with your dog.
For a broken leg, here’s what you can do:
- Observe your dog for limping after sleep.
- Prepare bandages and a splint.
- Talk to your dog gently while holding them.
- Place the splint on the leg.
- Wrap it in bandages.
Note: You can improvise with the splint. You can use a wooden stick or anything that can hold the limb together.
Caution: In case there’s not a 24/7 vet clinic available in your region, take your dog to the vet immediately the next morning if an accident has happened while sleeping. If you’re not sure how to help your pet, leave it to the experts and follow their guidance.
#4: You might have problems with your family
Bringing dogs to your bed means that you’ll be juggling time with other loved ones in your own private space.
This can also lead to fights since dogs have been shown to reduce their owners’ sleeping time.
Research also shows that lack of sleep increases moodiness and irritability. This may hurt your relationships in the long-term.
If you want to sleep with your dog, ask for permission from the rest of your family first.
Set expectations for them. Tell them that you may lose some sleep and even need help to manage your pet after midnight.
All dogs are different. Check if you and your dog can sleep comfortably in the same bed first.
If you feel discomfort when sleeping with your dog, don’t sleep with them the next day. This will allow you to de-stress and adjust accordingly.
Note: If it becomes too stressful, stop sleeping with your dog for 1-2 weeks. Resume when you are ready and sleep together for multiple consecutive days for consistency.
#5: Your Chihuahua might soil your bed
Normally, Chihuahuas don’t make a mess of their owners’ beds.
However, anxious Chihuahuas can have a problem with defecation. Without sufficient training and care, they might mistake your bed for territory and poop on it.
Not only can this cause a smelly mess, but it can also spread bacteria and viruses.
Further, if your Chihuahua isn’t regularly cleaned, you might get parasites from them like ringworm and fleas.
Hence, you should bathe your Chihuahua once a week and observe their behavior. If they start scratching themselves constantly, it likely means something is up.
Consult your vet and ask for recommendations on what dewormer your dog can use. You may have to deworm more often for puppies (2-3 weeks).
You should also consider spaying or neutering them. This will help prevent territorial marking.
As for pooping, you need to potty train your Chihuahua before sleeping with them.
Read all about it on Tip #1 below!
3 tips to sleep safely with your Chihuahua in your bed
#1: Train your pet to poop at the right place
Potty training is essential for sleeping with your pet. It prevents needless defecation and saves your bed from germs.
Here’s how you can potty train your pet:
- Observe your puppy for scratching, whining, or pacing.
- Escort them to a potty mat placed on the furthest corner of the room.
- Reward them with a treat for pooping.
You may have to rehearse this multiple times until your pet gets the idea. Eventually, they will leap out of your bed to poop in a corner.
#2: Fix your routine
Owners who do not match their routines with their dogs will be in conflict.
They might move each other, reducing sleep quality on both sides. The best way to fix this is to have a rigid schedule and stick to it.
Make tables or notes indicating what you want your dog to do every hour.
Since Chihuahuas can sleep for 12-23 hours a day, designate time for:
- Eating times.
- Playing times.
- Sleeping times.
Chihuahuas tend to have different sleeping patterns during the day and night. When left alone, they will take short naps frequently.
To modify this, play with your dog at night for 15-20 minutes. When they’re tired, remove sound sources and lower your voice.
#3: Offer a safe way out
Chihuahuas need space to sleep well. They’ll often move around or out of your bed for better spots.
Help them do this by keeping their crate open. Put a doggie staircase that matches the height of your bed beside your dog’s space.
The gap between each step should be as short as possible to prevent damage to their legs.
Note: You can also make a DIY platform bed. This extends your dog’s space without shortening your own.