A new study from Chiba University in Japan tracked almost 4,000 volunteers to examine how sharing a bed with pets influences health. participants who co‑slept with dogs reported better mood, more energy and higher overall wellbeing,whereas cat owners saw no measurable benefit.

Dog‑bed co‑sleepers report higher WHO wellbeing scores

Researchers used a World Health Organization‑sanctioned questionnaire that asked respondents to rate statements such as “I feel cheerful and in good spirits” and “I wake up feeling fresh and rested.” According to the report, those who slept with their dogs scored significantly better than non‑dog owners or owners who kept pets out of the bedroom.

The findings echo earlier work suggesting that canine companionship can lower stress and improve sleep quality,though the new data provide a larger sample size and a more rigorous health metric.

Cat‑bed sharing shows no measurable health lift

When the same questionnaire was applied to cat owners, the study found no statistical difference between cat‑co‑sleepers and participants who kept cats out of the bedroom.. The authors note that the lack of effect persisted even after controlling for age, gender and overall pet ownership rates.

Experts cited in the paper argue that cats may not provide the same “emotional security” that dogs do, and their nocturnal activity could even disrupt sleep for some people.

Study of 3,900 Japanese volunteers links dog cuddles to activity levels

About one‑tenth of the volunteers reported having a cat or dog, and roughly 40 % of those admitted to letting the animal sleep with them each night. The researchers highlight that dog owners who co‑sleep are also more likely to walk their pets regularly, which could boost physical activity and, in turn, wellbeing.

“Increased physical activity might also contribute to enhanced wellbeing,” the authors wrote, suggesting that the health benefit may be a combination of nighttime comfort and daytime exercise.

Unanswered: Does increased walking drive the benefits?

The study does not isolate whether the observed mood boost comes from the act of sleeping with a dog or from the associated daily walks. As the authors acknowledge, further research is needed to untangle these factors.

Additionally, the sample is limited to Japanese volunteers, leaving open the question of whether cultural attitudes toward pets affect the results in other regions.