Should My Dog Sleep In My Bed? Dog Behavior Training in Northern Virginia
While sleeping with your dog is generally enjoyable for both owner and dog, sometimes it doesn’t work out as planned. This is because the dog doesn’t understand their role in the household.
Years ago, dogs played a much different role in a family. Most dogs were working animals on a farm. They had to herd stock or protect the farm. Rarely would a dog sleep inside the home; they usually slept in a barn or under the porch. Dogs had to earn their keep.
Today, most dogs are kept as family pets. They are treated as children and loved upon. While this is fine, dogs are unable to find their place in the family. They are stuck between being a dog, a pet, and an almost-human. When this occurs, a dog will no longer view you as their alpha.
Many people allow their dogs to sleep in their bed. For some dogs, this will never result in an issue. Unfortunately, some dogs begin to show aggression towards their family members. They are asserting themselves as equal or higher above their human. We have seen this lead to territorial aggression a lot. When this occurs, there are a few things the owner needs to do.
-Remove their bed privileges. The first thing that you must do is to remove the dog from your bed. Place a dog bed, or crate, on the floor and don’t allow them to join you. The simple view of you sleeping above them will prove your message.
-Remind him that you are the alpha. Your dog must be reminded that he is dependent upon you. Your dog should sit before being let outside and sit before being fed. Don’t let your dog eat before you have eaten.
While you need to assert yourself as leader, do so in safe ways.
If your dog’s aggression issues continue, it’s time to consult a Off Leash K9 Training professional dog trainer. We have many tips and tricks to address the aggression. Never hesitate to call.
There is no rule about whether or not to allow your dog in your bed. It is quite often a dog-by-dog basis. Watch for signs of aggression, and act quickly if any are noticed. Reversing the situation can be easy if caught quickly.
-Nick White
Owner/Founder
Off Leash K9 Training