Co-sleeping with a dog is a common and comforting practice for many pet owners. For expectant mothers, however, this close proximity raises questions about safety for both the mother and the developing fetus. The primary concerns during pregnancy involve the potential for accidental physical harm and the low but present risk of transmitting zoonotic diseases. Understanding these considerations allows for informed decisions and the implementation of simple precautions.
Physical Safety Considerations During Sleep
A dog’s size and sleeping habits become increasingly relevant as pregnancy progresses, especially during the second and third trimesters. A large dog that moves suddenly or shifts position could accidentally kick or shove the expectant mother during the night. Unintentional, forceful contact with the abdomen is a risk that increases as the mother’s body becomes larger and less maneuverable in bed.
Shared mattress space also affects the expectant mother’s comfort and sleep quality, which is often compromised by pregnancy symptoms. A dog that crowds the bed can limit the mother’s ability to find a comfortable, safe sleeping position, such as sleeping on the left side. Disrupted sleep from a dog’s movement or noise can compound the fatigue experienced during this time.
If the dog is large or prone to abrupt overnight activity, implementing temporary boundaries may be a reasonable precaution. This does not mean removing the dog from the bedroom entirely, but perhaps setting up a comfortable dog bed on the floor next to the main bed. Establishing this new arrangement early in pregnancy provides a safer sleep environment and helps the dog adjust to the change.
Addressing Hygiene and Zoonotic Disease Risks
Pregnant women face increased susceptibility to certain infections due to normal changes in the immune system, making hygiene and zoonotic disease awareness important. Zoonotic diseases are infections transmissible from animals to humans, and while the risk from a well-cared-for dog is low, caution is advised. A primary concern is the transmission of intestinal parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms, which can be shed in dog feces.
Dogs do not directly transmit the parasite responsible for Toxoplasmosis, but they can mechanically carry the organism on their paws or fur if they have been in contaminated soil or feces. Cats are the definitive host for this parasite, but good hygiene is paramount for dog owners. Accidental ingestion of microscopic parasite eggs, which can survive in the environment, is the main route of human infection for roundworms.
Bacterial transfer is another consideration, especially if the dog licks the face or bedding. Brucella canis is a potential, though rare, concern for pregnant women. Simple, practical hygiene steps can significantly mitigate these risks, including consistent hand washing after handling the dog or their waste, and avoiding facial licking.
Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining an up-to-date deworming schedule are effective preventative measures. The dog’s vaccinations should also be current to protect both the animal and the pregnant owner. These proactive health measures, combined with strict general hygiene, establish a safer shared environment.
Preparing Your Dog for the Baby’s Arrival
The decision to co-sleep during pregnancy also involves preparing the dog for the massive change that occurs when the baby arrives. If the dog will not be allowed in the bed or bedroom once the baby is home, establishing this new sleeping boundary should happen well before the due date. Abrupt changes in routine, particularly sleeping arrangements, can cause anxiety or confusion in a dog.
It is helpful to gradually introduce the dog to the sights, sounds, and smells of a newborn to prevent an overwhelming surprise. Playing recordings of baby sounds, like crying and cooing, helps the dog become desensitized to the noise. Introducing baby equipment, such as the crib, stroller, and baby powder scents, allows the dog to investigate and become accustomed to the new items and smells.
Working on obedience training, such as “sit,” “stay,” and a strong “recall,” is beneficial for managing the dog’s behavior when the baby is present. A well-trained dog that can be directed to a specific spot will be easier to manage in the busy, unpredictable early weeks with a newborn. Seeking assistance from a certified professional dog trainer can be a supportive step if the dog exhibits signs of anxiety or potential jealousy during the adjustment period.