Best Dog Breeds for Sleeping in Your Bed

Sleeping next to a Great Dane is a lot different than sleeping next to a Chihuahua. If you like to snuggle with your pup in bed, these breeds are the best.

If co-sleeping with babies is a hot topic, co-sleeping with fur babies is on fire. Some pet parents feel strongly that dogs should have their own sleeping space, while others prefer to share their Tempurpedic with their four-legged family members. There’s no right or wrong answer here. It’s all about what works best for you and your dog(s).

For those who do dream of cuddling a future furball, some breeds are easier to share a bed with than others. Any dog that’s huge or sheds a ton will be less comfortable to sleep next to, and some breeds are too independent to enjoy the experience. Of all the breeds out there, these are the top 10 options for canine co-sleeping, ranked from smallest to largest.

10. Chihuahua

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Size: 3-7 lbs

Temperament: Lively, devoted, alert

Life expectancy: 12-20 years

Bottom Line: Chihuahua

Chihuahua sleeping among brown woolly blankets

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Chihuahuas get a bad rap for being aggressive, and it’s time to set the record straight. Chihuahuas can be feisty, to be sure, but the chihuahuas who develop behavioral problems usually get that way due to owners who spoil them. It’s easier to treat a dog like a toy when they’re the size of one, but small dogs need just as much training and socialization as large ones.

When a chihuahua is raised well, they’re a highly affectionate, intelligent dog that prefers to be right beside (or on top of) their favorite human. The only downside of letting a chi sleep in your bed is that you have to be careful not to roll over onto them.

9. Pomeranian

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Size: 4-8 lbs

Temperament: Extroverted, social, playful

Life expectancy: 12-16 years

Bottom Line: Pomeranian

Cute pomeranian dog sleeping on pillow on bed

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Poms can be yappy, but they’re also playful, adaptable and extremely snuggly. They’re small enough for apartment dwelling, and they get along well with almost everyone. Cats, kids, you name it.

Poms are velcro pups who shouldn’t be left alone for long stretches to avoid separation anxiety. That “clingy” temperament isn’t appreciated by all, but for those who’d like a lovable little fluffball to cuddle up to, they’re perfect.

8. Maltese

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Size: 6-9 lbs

Temperament: Lively, sweet, affectionate

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Maltese

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When the petite Maltese is groomed for a show, they look more like a posh princess than a puppy. Don’t let their glamorous, silky white coat fool you. There’s nothing snooty about them. Maltese dogs are naturally gentle, adaptable and sweet-natured.

They’re huge snugglers, and their sleek coat is hypoallergenic. That’s a big plus for a dog you hope to invite onto your pillow. If you aren’t a fan of the long-haired look, just ask the groomer for a puppy cut.

7. Mini Dachshund

Enjoying Christmas Morning With Her Beautiful Dachshund in Bed

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Size: 9-11 lbs

Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, fearless

Life expectancy: 12-16 years

Bottom Line: Mini Dachshund

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Dachshunds are way more affectionate and cuddly than people realize, but dachshund owners can attest to what big cuddle bugs they can be. They can be on the stubborn side, and no squirrels are safe from their eager hunting instinct. They’re surprisingly athletic for their little legs, but due to their body shape, they’re prone to back problems.

It’s best to offer them a set of carpeted steps to help them get on and off the bed without jumping to prevent injuries. Equipped with those, they might end up spending more time in your bed than you do. Many dachshunds prefer to burrow under the covers for warmth, and they’ll be even happier if you join the cuddle puddle too.

6. Miniature Poodle

Poodle dog is lying and sleeping in woman's lap

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Size: 10-15 lbs

Temperament: Playful, intelligent, friendly

Life expectancy: 10-18 years

Bottom Line: Miniature Poodle

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Mini poodles are arguably the most diverse dogs around. Poodles come in every size, and mini poodles offer a middle ground between the minuscule teacup poodle and the large standard poodle.

All poodles share an energetic, playful personality that’s well suited to family life. They’re plenty bright enough to learn tricks, and they excel at agility sports. They’re also very friendly and people-oriented. With a low-shedding, curly coat, mini poodles are one of the best choices for bed sharing.

5. Bichon Frise

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Size: 12-18 lbs

Temperament: Curious, mischievous, playful

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Bichon Frise

Portrait of beautiful male Bichon Frise dog

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Bichon Frises look similar to mini poodles, except they’re always solid white. The contrast of their dark eyes and black button nose with their soft cloud of fur makes them look more like stuffed animals than real dogs. They have all the energy of a large dog breed, and they tend to stay playful and puppylike well into old age.

They don’t relish alone time, however, so avoid getting a Bichon unless you’re prepared to shower them with attention. Their affinity for snuggles means sharing a bed is practically mandatory.

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Napping In Bed

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Size: 13-18 lbs

Temperament: Sweet, adaptable, loving

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for being extremely adaptable, easy going and loving. They live to please, and they’re patient and playful with kids. Any dog can bite if their boundaries aren’t respected, but Cavalier King Charles spaniels are extremely unlikely to snap.

Their long, silky coats don’t shed as much as many other breeds, so they’re less likely to trigger allergies if you invite them up onto your California king. As much as they love cuddling, they’re just as happy to join you for a trip to the dog park or a round of fetch in the backyard. Their cheerful, upbeat personalities are downright contagious.

3. Cockapoos

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Size: 12-24 lbs

Temperament: Loving, friendly, bright

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Bottom Line: Cockapoos

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Some dogs are bred for appearance, but cockapoos are bred for temperament. Both poodles and cocker spaniels are known for their loving nature and intelligence. Mash them up and you get a small-medium sized dog that functions like a 24/7 class clown. They’re mischievous and sweet, always keeping their owners laughing.

Since they’re a high-energy breed, it’s best to give them plenty of exercise and make sure their play doesn’t get too rough for young children. Despite their energetic personalities, they’re very people-oriented and want to be wherever you are, including at bedtime.

2. Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever lies and rests in a cozy bed.

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Size: 55-75 lbs

Temperament: Friendly, trustworthy, gentle

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

Bottom Line: Golden Retriever

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The golden retriever has long been one of America’s favorite dog breeds. They’re tolerant and soft-mouthed, taking treats gently from your hand. A golden’s worst nightmare is disappointing you. They’re naturally obedient, so as long as you put in the effort, training them is a breeze.

Their long, golden fur can go into periods of intense shedding throughout the year, and they’ll take up more space in bed than a mini poodle. That said, it’s totally worth upgrading to a bigger bed if that’s what it takes to make room for a golden. They’re working dogs in size and capability, but puppylike lapdogs at heart.

1. Labrador

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Size: 55-79 lbs

Temperament: Intelligent, active, outgoing

Life expectancy: 10-14 years

Bottom Line: Labrador

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Labrador retrievers are crazy versatile. What can’t they do? They love kids, have enough energy to keep up on runs or hikes, aren’t so big that walking them is anxiety-inducing, and they’re famously friendly. They’re easy going, but they thrive on consistent exercise. Trips to dog-friendly beaches will send a Lab over the moon with joy.

Once you get home and rinse off, they’ll be just as happy to hop up on the bed and serve as a happy, heated backrest until morning. Would you prefer butterscotch, chocolate or licorice? Because Labs come in multiple flavors. They’re all amazing, so we recommend one of each.