Boston Terriers have many facts that make them special, and their sleeping habits is one of them.
Boston Terriers sleep under covers because it’s an instinctive behaviour, especially for the Terrier breed. A Boston Terrier will burrow under a blanket or snuggle next to their owner for warmth, comfort and protection.
Continue reading to find out more about this innate behaviour and your Boston’s sleeping habits!
Boston Terriers’ Sleeping Habits
Boston Terriers are likely to burrow and snuggle under covers, or next to their favourite person, i.e., you!
Let’s have a look at how much they sleep and why they sleep the way they do.
Do Boston Terriers Sleep a Lot?
A dog’s sleeping patterns vary depending on:
- Age.
- Breed and energy levels.
- Environment and lifestyle.
- Health.
According to the American Kennel Club, adult dogs should sleep between 12 and 14 hours per day.
So, an average family dog will spend about half her time napping, another 30% lounging around but awake and the remaining 20% being active.
Puppies, on the other hand, need up to 18 hours of sleep per day! Despite being a ball of energy when they are awake, they need a lot of sleep to grow and recharge their batteries.
Older dogs tend to have lower energy levels. Especially if they have some health issues, then they are more likely to spend more time chilling and sleeping.
Boston Terriers are no exceptions to these guidelines. However, if your pooch sleeps more than average, take this matter to your vet for a better assessment.
Read also: How Much Should a Boston Terrier Sleep? blog post.
Why Do Boston Terriers Sleep Under the Covers?
Bostons can be major snugglers. They have bed-hogging tendencies and love to burrow under a blanket.
Burrowing under the cover is a natural canine behaviour for Terriers, they love to get into their den (a small space that feels comfortable and secure).
Here’s why:
- First of all, the Terrier breed has a natural drive for digging, which also means that they love to tunnel and crawl into small spaces.
- Also, they have a need to feel secure. Bostons can hide under covers when they are fearful or suffer from anxiety.
- Comfort is an important factor that influences this burrowing behaviour. Boston Terriers love to be close to their family members to bond, belong and feel good.
- Finally, Boston Terriers have a higher need to stay warm since they don’t tolerate extreme temperatures. Due to their short noses (Brachycephalic breed), they struggle in very hot or very cold weather.
When going under covers, your Boston Terrier is following this instinctive behaviour, although they have a low tendency for digging. Your bed is just the perfect burrowing spot since your pup can also be close to you and it smells of you. However, any covers will do!
If you are not sure about sharing your bed with your pooch, here are some alternatives:
- A basic crate where they can feel secure and cosy.
- A hooded bed or cave bed for dogs.
- A fleece blanket.
Insider Tip: Whatever your sleeping preference is, make sure to stay consistent. Dogs thrive on routine and they get upset with sudden changes.
Why Do Boston Terriers Like Sleeping With You?
There are three main reasons for your pooch to snuggle with you in bed or on the sofa:
- Protection.
- Closeness.
- Warmth.
It’s in their nature to sleep on top of each other. From when they are pups, they snuggle close to each other to feel secure and comfortable.
Most dogs replicate that behaviour with their owners. In the case of Boston Terriers, they add some extra sweetness due to their snuggling habits. Your pooch considers everyone living in your house her pack, her family.
Sleeping under the covers is your Bostons’ way of getting into the heart of the den, where the pack leader (you ;)) sleeps.
Also, this breed is very sensitive to your body language, including your mood and feelings.
If you are feeling upset, your Boston Terrier will want to dive under the covers to keep you company and offer you some comfort too! It’s another way to show affection!
Your pooch will show you that she cares in many different ways, with her body language. Head on over to our Dog’s Body Language for Affection blog post to know more about your gentle companion and increase that special bond you have 😉
Read also: Are Boston Terriers Affectionate? Do They Like to Cuddle?
“Today, many pet owners are away from their pets for much of the day, so they want to maximize their time with them when they are home. Having them in the bedroom at night is an easy way to do that. And, now, pet owners can find comfort knowing it won’t negatively impact their sleep.”
Lois Krahn, M.D., study coauthor and a sleep medicine specialist at the Center for Sleep Medicine, Mayo Clinic’s Arizona Campus.
Is It Okay For Your Boston Terrier To Sleep In Bed With You?
According to PetMd, it’s perfectly safe for your little companion to sleep in bed with you, as long as both of you are healthy.
Plus, it can even be beneficial. According to a new study from the Mayo Clinic, some dog owners find their pet’s presence soothing and helps them relax.
Some dog parents have even installed dog steps next to their beds so their Bostons can reach (some cannot jump that high) and sleep in their bed!
However, the American Gentleman (or Classywoman ;)) might not be the ideal bed companion for some of you, since they snore a lot! But, if you are happy to put up with this and have her sleeping at your feet, please go ahead 🙂
