New research from Canisius College in New York State reveals that women sleep better next to dogs than humans or cats. “Women commonly rate dogs as better bed partners… and report that their dogs enhance their sleep quality,” says Christy Hoffman, Ph.D., lead researcher.

Hoffman surveyed nearly 1,000 U.S. women. Results showed that 55% shared their bed with a dog, 31% with a cat, and 57% with a human partner. Dogs’ sleep patterns resemble humans more closely, making them better sleep companions than cats.

Dogs are better at accommodating their human’s sleep schedule. “It’s not uncommon for human bed partners to go to bed and wake up at very different times,” Hoffman explains. Dogs also help maintain routines, like morning walks, improving sleep quality.

Dogs stay still while sleeping, unlike fidgety partners or cats. This stillness, along with the security dogs provide, enhances sleep. “A dog’s bark may deter a potential intruder,” Hoffman notes.

While dogs may be ideal for some, the benefits are subjective. Some dogs snore or overheat the bed, and some owners find cats help them sleep. More objective research is needed to confirm dogs as superior sleep partners.