Three's a Crowd?

Dog-lovers are willing to share just about everything with their beloved canine companions, but some draw the line at the foot of the bed. Getting a restful night's sleep may be difficult with a sleeping partner who thrashes, sheds, and snores--yes, that means the dog, not the spouse. Within every dog is the soul of a wolf, and wolves live in packs. They sleep near one another for warmth and companionship; given the choice, most dogs would prefer to do the same with their people. It's hard to say no to that puppy-dog look, but sometimes an owner must. Dogs are part of the family, but like other family members, they can have their own beds.

The Nose Knows

A dog's sense of smell is so keen that humans can only imagine the sheer volume of information a dog gleans from worn clothing or bed linen. Dogs become confused when their "pack leader" declares an area that smells so strongly of security and comfort off-limits to them. It's therefore vital to supply the dog with a space of his own that still retains a connection with his pack. The presence of his pack reassures him, but he'll settle for their scent. Remove a used pillowcase from the bed and place it in the dog's bed. He'll gravitate to it like a toddler to a security blanket.

Comfort Is Key

Ensure that the dog has a comfortable bed. He doesn't like a scratchy, smelly old bump of a bed any more than a person would, so treat him to a designated doggie bed. Observe his favourite sleeping positions and choose a bed that suits his style: a long pillow for a sprawling sleeper or a cup-shaped bed for a curled-up pup. Keep the bed in one of his preferred napping spots if possible and he will naturally begin to sleep there, especially if the bed smells enticingly like his pack.

All Night Long

Dogs may try to sneak into bed with their people if they're accustomed to sharing a bed. It may take a few nights of waking up, leading the dog back to his own bed, and offering praise once he settles in before he takes the hint. Avoid food rewards for these nocturnal lessons, though, lest he learn that waking the household by jumping onto beds earns him a midnight snack.

Paper Training

If a dog is still reticent to sleep in his own bed despite plenty of positive reinforcement, try placing a layer of parchment paper on the bed when it is not in use. He won't like the slick paper under his feet, but he won't feel snubbed the way he might if his pack leader chased him off with a "No!" He may wonder why people would choose to sleep with rustling stuff when they could have a nice cushion on the floor to call their own, but he'll stay off the bed.