Dormire con il cane o il gatto It's not just about affection or a simple evening habit. Sleeping next to our pet tells a lot about our character. According to some psychological studies, those who share a bed with their pet show Specific personality traits. And we're not just talking about animal lovers.
Let's start with the most interesting data: Many people who sleep with their dog or cat do so because they are looking for a sense of protection. The proximity of the animal reduces stress and creates a feeling of security Deep. It is no coincidence that this behavior is more common among those who tend to experience anxiety or suffer from insomnia.
Who has this habit, In addition, show often a strong empathy. Is more predisposed to listen, to understand and approach others with respect. In practice, A person who doesn't stop at the surface.
A matter of emotions (and psyche)
Welcoming your own Dog or cat Under the covers reveals Much more than it seems. It is a gesture that also reflects a certain degree of altruism: those who do it are often oriented towards putting the well-being of others – even that of your pet – in front of your comfort.
Then there is another interesting aspect: These people are often introspective. They tend to reflect, to come to terms with themselves, to live a more active inner life. The silent and constant companionship of the animal thus becomes almost a form of Night meditation.
Another fact? Those who sleep with their pet often have one less conventional lifestyle. Greater flexibility, Less rigidity in daily rhythms, and a vision of the home as a shared space also emotionally.
The concrete benefits of sleeping with your dog or cat: Less anxiety, More peace of mind
The presence of the animal in the bed also has an impact on our mental well-being. Sleeping with your dog or cat can alleviate anxiety, increase the perceived quality of sleep and offer a form of emotional comfort that not everyone can find elsewhere.
At a glance, These are the most common traits encountered:
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High empathy
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Need for protection and security
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Marked altruism
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Tendency to introspection
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Ability to manage the’anxiety
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Strong emotional bond with your pet
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Less rigid lifestyle
Dormire con il cane o il gatto: A personal choice, but not accidental
Of course, there is no universal rule. Not all animal lovers sleep with their dog or cat, And not everyone who does has these traits. But the psychological picture that emerges from the data is clear: Those who make this choice tend to have a very deep relationship with your pet, often more intense than what can be seen from the outside.
This habit tells us something precise: Animals are not just animals. For many, they are a living and present part of everyday life, even in the most intimate moments, like sleep.
Scientific sources and insights
If you are passionate about psychology, Here are the sources with which to deepen this article
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Smith, B. P., & Phillips, C. J. C. (2019)
"How Do Pets Affect Sleep? A Review of Human–Animal Co-sleeping Research”
Source: Anthrozoös, Journal of the International Society for Anthrozoology
This study analyzes the effects of co-sleeping with animals on psychological well-being and sleep quality. She concludes that the proximity of the pet can increase the feeling of security and reduce stress levels. -
Kogan, L. R., Schoenfeld-Tacher, R., & Simon, In. In. (2012)
"Behavioral Effects of Animals on Anxiety and Mood in College Students”
Source: College Student Journal The results show that the presence of pets reduces anxiety, Stress and improves mood, confirming the role of the pet as emotional support. -
Mcconnell, In. R., et al. (2011)
"Friends with Benefits: On the Positive Consequences of Pet Ownership”
Source: Journal of Personality and Social Psychology The authors highlight that those who own a pet show greater self-esteem, empathy e Life Satisfaction. -
Krause-Parello, C. In. (2008)
"The Mediating Effect of Pet Attachment Support between Loneliness and General Health in Older Females Living in the Community”
Source: Journal of Community Health Nursing The study shows how the emotional bond with the pet can improve overall health and mitigate loneliness, also through the sharing of everyday moments such as sleep.
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Last updated on 24 Aprile 2025 From Rossella Vignoli
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