Creating a pet-friendly bedroom doesn’t have to mean compromising on your sleep. With some simple considerations, you can still create a comfortable and functional space that meets your four-legged friend’s needs without interrupting your sleep.
A pet-friendly bedroom should be designed so that your pet has a designated area to sleep, away from your bed, while also providing comfortable and inviting accessories. Of course, these elements need to be combined with pet behavior training so that your pet knows to retreat to their spot for rest and not disturb you throughout the night.
The most important thing for a pet-friendly bedroom is making sure the space promotes good sleep for both you and your pet. Here are a few tips for doing just that.
Create a Separate Spot
Whether you have a dog or a cat, it’s essential that they have their own spot in the bedroom. This could be a designated pet bed, basket or even a crate. Regardless of the item, it should be cozy and comfortable enough for your pet to want to go there. Additionally, ensure it is placed at least 3-4 feet away from your bed so that your pet doesn’t override your sleep space.
Pick the Right Bedding
The type of bedding you choose for your pet will make a big difference. Select bedding that is machine washable instead of dry-clean only. This makes it easy to clean up any messes and, more importantly, keep their sleeping area hygienic and fragrant. Memory foam is a great option for dog beds because it molds to a dog’s body and provides a comfortable place to sleep.
Also, consider bedding fabric types such as cotton (which helps keep pets cool) or faux fur (which helps insulate pets during the colder months). If your dog constantly has itchy skin, look for bedding with removable covers that can accommodate different types of materials.
If you have a cat, make sure you select a bed that is specifically made for cats. Cat beds come in all different sizes and shapes, and most feature soft and inviting fabrics that cats love.
Keep Things Quiet
Noisy pet toys (e.g., squeaker toys) and furniture (e.g., scratching posts) can be disruptive to both you and your pet at night. Consider silencing pet furniture such as scratching posts with special covers that can help minimize any unnecessary noise. Additionally, keep noisy toys out of the bedroom and away from where your pet sleeps. Instead, save them for playtime during the day to ensure that your pet and your sleep time are undisturbed.
Have Pet Behavior Training
If you’re finding it difficult to transition your pet from the bed to their own spot, pet behavior training can be incredibly helpful. A certified pet behavior trainer can teach you and your pet how to create boundaries for the bedroom. This also helps you and your pet build a relationship based on trust and understanding.
Other Tips for a Pet-Friendly Bedroom:
- Keep pet hair and dirt away from bedding with regular vacuuming.
- Provide your pet with an accessible water bowl.
- Arrange regular playtime outside of the bedroom.
- Sprinkle catnip or use calming aids in the pet bed.
- Reward good behavior with treats and praise.
Conclusion
Creating a pet-friendly bedroom that promotes good sleep is achievable with the right planning and design. From selecting the right bedding to introducing pet behavior training, these tips can help you create a welcoming environment for your four-legged friend without compromising on your own sleep.