Enjoy the living blanket, but keep hygiene in mind while sleeping with dogs
Laundry tips to keep dog blankets, human blankets, dog beds and your own hands clean
When I bought a human-sized dog bed, I predicted that I would spend a few nights relaxing, watching movies and yelling at Junee to stop stealing my popcorn. (My Hound mix loves popcorn as much as she does carrots and possibly homemade treats.) But I didn't think I would wake up on this couch so often that I finally had to pre-program a “Dog Couch Alarm” on my phone to remind myself to go into my bedroom to turn off the solar travel alarm clock on my nightstand.
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Why do I end up sleeping here so much? Half of the reason is because I never go to sleep without taking a shower. I also have zero interest in falling asleep in my “outside” clothes: pajamas and gowns only. So if I don't have the energy to do either, I unfold the human-dog bed to full length, expect a smooth-haired body to glue herself to my side (who often lifts my arm over her like a body pillow), and doze off. (Yes, I could easily sleep on the folding sofa bed in my living room, but that would mean I’d have to remove the couch pillows and spread sheets on it. Again, that’s too much effort. I’d rather slide onto the floor and turn the lights off.)
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I am almost certain to wake up with my dog turned upside down. But during the colder months, she buries herself under the blanket (from my couch ottoman) so I don't see a tan and black butt to start my day. I wake up, get ready for our first daily walk before my morning meditation, and continue on with my usual daily routines (shower included).
As much as I enjoy these dog sleepovers and a living blanket who naturally smells like honey or is washed with oatmeal coconut shampoo and hints of kiwi spray, I wondered if there are ever downsides to sleeping with dogs when it comes to allergies and sanitation habits, blanket and couch washing included.