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1 Improves Sleep Quality 

Sleeping with your dog results in a higher sleep efficiency score. One study recently found that humans who slept with a dog in their bedroom kept a better routine and were able to sleep more efficiently. Participants (and their dogs) wore a sleep tracker for seven nights. They found that humans had an 81% sleep efficiency and dogs an 85% sleep efficiency. (A sleep efficiency score of 100 is perfect.)

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2 Decreases Loneliness 

Co-sleeping can provide companionship, security, and relaxation. Recent studies show that many individuals—especially those who are single—find the presence of a pet helps them sleep.

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3 Diminishes Nightmares 

Sweet dreams. A study found that support animals diminish nightmares and even help those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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4 Eases Insomnia

Studies show that having a dog in the bed can help relieve insomnia by mitigating anxiety and modifying hyperarousal and hypervigilance.

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5 Provides Sense of Security 

Feeling safe can play a large part in how well you sleep. A recent study explored how the presence of a pet in bed impacted women’s sleep quality and found that it made them feel more secure and comfortable.

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6 Confers Health Benefits 

One study found that 41% of pet owners described sleeping with their pets as unobtrusive and even beneficial. Multiple studies have proven that having a dog improves your overall health by lowering blood pressure, decreasing stress, and releasing oxytocin, which is also known as the love hormone.

This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!