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. E non parliamo solo di amanti degli animali.
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. Non è un caso che questo comportamento sia più comune tra chi tende a provare ansia o a soffrire d’insonnia.
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, una persona che non si ferma alla superficie.
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 – davanti al proprio 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, e una visione della casa come spazio condiviso anche emotivamente.
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 che non tutti riescono a trovare altrove.
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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Capacità di gestione dell’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, spesso più intenso di quello che si vede dall’esterno.
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, come il sonno.
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 AnthrozoologyThis study analyzes the effects of co-sleeping with animals on psychological well-being and sleep quality. Conclude che la vicinanza del pet può aumentare la sensazione di sicurezza e ridurre i livelli di stress.
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Kogan, L. R., Schoenfeld-Tacher, R., & Simon, In. In. (2012)
“Behavioral Effects of Animals on Anxiety and Mood in College Students”
Source: College Student JournalThe results show that the presence of pets reduces anxiety, Stress and improves mood, confermando il ruolo del pet come supporto emotivo.
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Mcconnell, In. R., et al. (2011)
"Friends with Benefits: On the Positive Consequences of Pet Ownership”
Source: Journal of Personality and Social PsychologyThe authors highlight that those who own a pet show greater self-esteem, empathy and Life Satisfaction.
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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 NursingThe study shows how the emotional bond with the pet can improve overall health and mitigate loneliness, anche attraverso la condivisione di momenti quotidiani come il sonno.
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Last updated on 24 April 2025 From Rossella Vignoli
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