Sleep is essential for good health, and researchers constantly study ways to improve sleep quality. Surprisingly, a study from Canisius College in New York found that women sleep better next to dogs than humans or cats.

Animal behaviorist Dr. Christy Hoffman surveyed nearly 1,000 women in the U.S. and discovered that 55% shared their bed with a dog, 31% with a cat, and 57% with a human partner. Women rated dogs as the best sleeping companions because their sleep patterns closely match human schedules, unlike cats, which tend to move around at night.

Another advantage is that dogs help maintain a sleep routine. Since they require morning walks and structured schedules, owners tend to develop more consistent sleep habits. Dogs also stay still while sleeping, reducing disruptions compared to restless human or feline partners.

Most importantly, dogs provide a sense of security. Many women feel safer knowing their dog could alert them to danger or deter an intruder. Cats, in contrast, don’t offer the same level of protection.

While the study suggests dogs improve sleep quality, the findings are subjective. More research is needed to measure the effects objectively, but for many women, dogs are the perfect bedtime companions.