Today, in this blog, we will understand the main reason behind why dogs, mostly Cocker Spaniels, like to fall asleep on their owners, what it means, and if the behavior is problematic. So, let’s start.
If your Cocker Spaniel lay on top of you when you sleep, that’s because-
1. They consider you as their pack, or in dog language, a close family member
2. They are showing a sign of dominance
3. They are in love with your body scent or looking for warmth on chilly days.
Explanation
There are many explainable theories based on exactly when and how long the pup has been lying on you. Firstly, similar to human beings, dogs are highly sociable animals. For centuries, they have existed as pack animals, starting from their wild counterparts, wolves, to the very docile and lovable pet dogs. So, while your Cocker Spaniel might seek warmth and protection from you by being close during their vulnerable state, i.e., sleep, there might also be various other reasons.
As mentioned above, if the act was sudden, they are probably trying to express dominance or are too cold sleeping on the tiles. If the case is the former, they will often rub themselves against your skin, mattress, or even blankets, claiming you as ‘Their own.’ But, in the second case, the pooch might be too sleepy even to send a look towards you. They will only find the next most heated space to you and curl up into the fluff ball, which they are.
Is it bad?
Although some skeptic owners might state otherwise, sleeping with your Cocker Spaniel has been proven to be quite beneficial for both the pups and their owners. This co-sleeping arrangement aids reduce risks of depression, promotes theta brainwaves while ensuring a sense of security. Moreover, when your Cocker Spaniel lays on top of you, it also enhances the quality of sleep and weaves your bond even more tightly.
However, if you are worried about their fur and the allergens that might come into your bed, then chill. Scientists have found that early exposure to such allergens helped children develop higher immune systems from a minimum age. And for the fur, a thorough regular combing can help prevent strands of loose fur on your bed.
Similarly, various studies have also proven that over 98 percent of people could sleep better when their Cocker Spaniel lay on top of them. So, why prevent your pets from sleeping beside you every night when loads of benefits come with the action.
How to stop your dog from lying on you while you are sleeping?
Although there is absolutely no side-effect of your pet baby sleeping with you, if you still feel the chills every time they lay beside or on you, this is what might be of help.
Crate them at night
If you despise the idea of having to wake up with lots of drools or fur on your bed, crating your Cocker Spaniel is the best option. Like when you go out during work hours, gently nudging them to go inside the crate will work out well. But never force them to do it when they are already trying to lay on top of you. That might seem like an act of rejection, upsetting your Cocker Spaniel baby deeply.
You can add in their favorite treats or two, make them a comfy warm bed with their favorite blankie, or toss in their ‘Teddy-boo’ so that they don’t feel lonely when inside the crate, and you can also enjoy a good night’s sleep.
Teach the ‘off’ command
Start the process every time your adorable Cocker Spaniel tries getting on to the bed. Rather than wrestling their way out every time they try to jump on your bed or lay on top of you, teaching them the ‘off’ command is better. While sudden actions might not be pre-calculated, being on the lookout for the minor signs can come in handy. Be on the lookout for the soul-bending stare, pawing on the tip of your bed, or playful attitude.
When teaching your fur baby to get off your furniture or bed, never forget to add delicious treats. Food is an excellent way of training them to do things that they like without creating any emotional trauma. And also, as a pet parent, you must know just how your pup reacts to you opening a new pack of food.
Purchase them a good quality Dog bed
Another reason they might prefer your bed rather than their usual sleeping location is that they are cold or uncomfortable. Sleeping for long hours on the hard floor is never pleasant. Apart from continually feeling cold, they also run risks of getting face paralysis or suffering from a bad cold the next day. So, why torture your Cocker Spaniel when you can get them a doggy-bed.
Such beds are not only incredibly comfortable but also allow your baby to enjoy a no-disturb sleep. Large beds are often much more preferable than smaller ones because if you have a Spaniel puppy, it will grow, and having a larger bed will surely be a better choice.
Training a Cocker Spaniel to not lay on top of you is no rocket science. You will need patience, time, and loads of treats. And yes, don’t forget to remember that this whole process will require some time. Hence, shouting at them, pushing them off the bed, or resorting to punishments will only end up making you the ‘bad owner.’
Cocker spaniels are no wonder majestic dogs, and treating them the same will ensure a much lovable relationship. So, while we are cent percent sure these methods will work out, if they don’t, your pooch might be having other health issues, letting him behave like this. It is better to consult with a professional veteran and have your pup thoroughly checked in such cases.
End Thoughts
Here we tried discussing the various reasons why your Cocker Spaniel might be trying to lay on top of you. If you want to learn more fascinating details about their multiple sleeping positions and what they mean, we have another exciting piece waiting for you.
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