Some dogs are eternally attached to the owners and want to be wherever the dog owners are – including the bed. Others are more independent and prefer sleeping alone or even in another room. However, for most owners, the fact their dogs prefer sleeping in another room comes as a surprise.
So, why does my dog sleep in another room? Well, every dog is different, and there are various reasons a dog would prefer sleeping in another room – from comfort and environments to accessibility and security. Luckily, a dog wanting to sleep in another room is not a big issue, and there are things you can do to make the bedroom more attractive to your dog.
In this article, we will talk about dogs sleeping in different rooms than their owners. We will cover the reasons some dogs prefer sleeping in another room and then give some helpful tips on how to persuade such dogs to sleep in the same room as the owners.
How Do Dogs Choose Their Sleeping Location?
If you thought finding the perfect sleeping spot was easy, think again. From a canine perspective finding the perfect sleeping location requires considering several factors. Here is a detailed review of those factors.
Factor number 1: Environment
The overall environment is an important factor – some dogs like more cluttered and other more spacious rooms. The noise, traffic, light, room temperature, space – these are all important parts of the environment as a factor.
Factor number 2: Accessibility
Dogs like to have easy and simple access to a sleeping spot. If reaching the bedroom requires climbing stairs or too much effort, they will find a more accessible spot to sleep. This is particularly true for older dogs with mobility issues and puppies that get tired really quickly.
Factor number 3: Comfort
Considering how long dogs sleep and how often they take naps, it is no surprise they appreciate comfort. Comfort refers to two important aspects – the actual bed and the overall conditions determined by the environment.
Why Does My Dog Sleep in Another Room?
Some dog owners like having their dogs sleep beside them, while others prefer sleeping in separate rooms. Dogs are the same – some will cry to enter the bedroom and be with the owners, while others will scratch the bedroom door to be let outside.
And there is no right or wrong situation; everyone is different. However, as a dog parent, you will probably want to know the reasons your dog prefers sleeping away from you. Here are some of the most plausible reasons.
Reason number 1: The bedroom lacks comfort
The bedroom can be perfect for your standards but not for your dog’s. Dogs perceive comfort differently, and it is not uncommon for them to find a different spot more pleasant for sleeping. You can try making the bedroom more attractive to your dog – put a comfy dog bed (some dogs do not like to sleep on a crowded couch next to the owner). You can also transfer some of your dog’s toys to the bedroom.
Reason number 2: Your dog is being protective of you
Your dog does not have to sleep next to you or even on top of your head to protect you. In fact, dogs often choose to sleep in another room due to being extra protective. Dogs are very attentive, and they often assume certain places as spots with better-guarding advantages. For example, if there is more traffic in the corridor, the dog is likely to sleep there.
Reason number 3: The bedroom is too cluttered
Personal space is important, not just for people but also for dogs. If the bedroom is small and does not allow proper stretching, chances are the dog will find another room to sleep. This is particularly true for large dogs, but smaller pups can require more space than we often expect.
Reason number 4: The bedrooms is too hot
This is one of the most common reasons why dogs run away from bedrooms. Some people love sleeping in warm rooms and putting the heating on maximum in the bedroom. Dogs are not very appreciative of such conditions and often require cooler sleeping places.
Reason number 5: There is too much traffic in the bedroom
If you have small kids who frequently enter the bedroom during the night or you get up too often to visit the bathroom, your dog’s rest will be disturbed. In such cases, the dog’s decision to sleep in another room is completely understandable – your dog is looking for a place it can sleep without interruptions.
What to Consider when My Dog Likes to Sleep in Another Room?
Before you start crafting a strategy to make your dog sleep in the same room as you do, there are several things you need to consider.
Consideration number 1: If your dog always disliked sleeping with you
Think about the starting point of the behavior. If your dog has always slept in another room, it is probably a matter of personal preference – your dog likes it that way. However, if the behavior started recently, think about what has changed and what could be the reason your dog decides to sleep in another room.
Consideration number 2: Whether your dog sleeps with you sometimes
You must also consider whether your dog sleeps with you sometimes and in another room other times. If your dog changes its sleeping wishes frequently, think about what is different – maybe there is a specific reason that affects your dog’s decision. For example, if it sleeps in another room when the heating is on, chances are the bedroom is too hot for its preferences and is looking for a cooler spot.
What Can I Do to Keep My Dog from Sleeping in Another Room?
First of all, you need to consider why you want your dog sleeping in the same room with you – is there an objective reason to put time and effort into making your dog accept the idea of sharing a bedroom.
For example, if it is cold and you cannot heat the entire house, it is a good idea to sleep together and only heat one room. Also, if your dog has a urinary issue and needs frequent potty breaks, it is better to sleep together. Another reason you should be sharing the same sleeping room is if your dog mischiefs and you cannot control those impulses unless you are together.
With that being said, if you thought things through and there is an objective reason behind the intents, you can consider several things. Here is a short review of some helpful tips.
Tip number 1: Make the bedroom a nice and comfy spot
It would be unfair to make your dog sleep with you if the bedroom is uncomfortable. Invest in a high-quality and cozy bed and put it in the bedroom. To make it more appealing, you can cover it with your dog’s old blanket or put several of its favorite toys inside.
Tip number 2: Use positive reinforcement techniques
Positive reinforcement is the very essence of every dog training process. It may take some time and effort, but it is definitely worth it. When it comes to making your dog sleep in the same room, it is a good idea to teach your dog the “come” and “sit” command and then reward it after it comes and sits in the bedroom.
Tip number 3: No negative reinforcement and punishing
Negative reinforcement refers to giving your dog what it wants even if it chooses not to obey you. As you can imagine, this is a recipe for disaster and has no effect. Also, you must never punish your dog for doing certain things the way it does them. Be patient and stick to the above-explained tips.
Finally, we should note that there are situations in which you should not insist on having your dog sleep with you. For example, if your dog has arthritis or some other painful mobility condition and your bedroom is upstairs, you must not make your dog sleep with you. Going up and downstairs is not only painful at the moment, but it can also aggravate the joint issue in the long run.
Summing Up: Why Does My Dog Sleep in Another Room?
All in all, there are many reasons a dog would choose to sleep alone in another room. Some of those reasons are objective and logical, and others are simply a matter of choice or medical limitation.
If your dog’s decision to sleep in another room is sudden and new, you can evaluate the overall situation to determine its underlying cause. However, if your dog always wants to sleep in another room, there is no need to put pressure and make it sleep together.
Finally, if you suspect there is a medical reason behind your dog’s choice, you need to schedule an appointment with your trusted veterinarian and get to the bottom of the problem. Certain health issues escalate quickly, and prompt management is vital.
