You may have heard that old rule: if a dog doesn't like you, it doesn't trust you—and you're probably right. But what if your dog won't let you sleep without it? Does it mean the dog doesn't trust you, or maybe you need a little more comfort and warmth than you'd like to admit? Does your dog sleep in your bed?
If you're a single woman who happily lets your furry friend into bed, it could mean more than just love for your dog. Psychologists reveal that this habit indicates your deep need for closeness and security. A dog by your side in bed symbolizes comfort, protection and, above all, unconditional love that you may be missing in other relationships.
So that you don't think you're the only one. My friend Maja, a successful woman in her thirties, has long sworn that she simply cannot sleep without her dog, a Cocker Spaniel named Charlie. This was great until she met Mark, a nice and somewhat reserved lawyer. Everything was fine at first, but when Mark found out he had to share a bed with Charlie, he became a little less enthusiastic. "I don't have a problem with dogs, but I didn't know that I would have to compete for space in the bed," he said with a hint of humor, but Maja knew he was serious. All of this led to negotiations that he probably did not expect - Maja had to choose between Charlie and Mark. Who did she choose? Well, Charlie's still sleeping in her bed, and Mark… is just a nice anecdote now.
Psychologists would say this is a sign of your strong independence and solid emotional core. Ultimately, if your dog isn't accepting of your potential mate, it might be a red light that you shouldn't ignore. A dog is your ally, sharing that most intimate bond with you – the space in bed. And if someone doesn't suit him, why would you want to share the rest with him?
In addition, sleeping with a dog, experts say, connects your heart's needs. Dogs in your bed symbolize loyalty, devotion and that childlike emotional warmth that is not often found in humans. If your dog sleeps with you, you are probably a very caring and empathetic person. This attachment shows your deep need to care for and take care of others, which is definitely an attractive quality.
And one more thing: did you know that sleeping with a dog can reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality? Dogs help release oxytocin - a hormone that calms and connects us. So if anyone ever asks why your dog still sleeps in your bed, you can say, “Because of science, of course!”
But despite everything, it's worth thinking about the dynamics this creates in your life. Maybe the next partner will understand and accept your special sleeping arrangements – after all, if they love you, they'll have to love your dog too. And if not? Well, then you know who the real winner is in this battle for bed space.