Despite preparing to one day become the King and Queen of the United Kingdom, Prince William and Princess Kate maintain surprisingly relatable habits behind palace doors. Among them is a nighttime routine that often divides opinion: sharing their bed with their pet dog.
A Surprise Revelation from Prince William
The bedroom secret came to light during Prince William’s visit to Duchy College Stoke Climsland. While chatting with a local named Louise Harland and her dog, Jacks, the Prince revealed that the royal couple’s beloved dog, Orla, regularly sleeps in bed with them at night.
Recounting the exchange to Hits Radio Cornwall, Harland shared: “William said that his little dog sleeps on the bed with them at night, with him and Kate. He was absolutely in love with Jacks, asked about his Cockerjack breed, and couldn’t get over how soft his ears were.”
The Pros and Cons of Co-Sleeping with Pets
Roughly 56% of pet owners allow their dogs or cats into bed. While critics point to hygiene concerns and sleep disruptions, research highlights several key benefits to sharing a bed with a four-legged friend:
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Better sleep quality: Closeness with pets boosts oxytocin levels, easing owners into deeper, restorative REM sleep.
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Reduced anxiety and nightmares: A pet’s steady presence fosters a strong sense of safety and calm, offering notable relief for individuals dealing with anxiety or PTSD.
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Enhanced physical and long-term health: Cuddling a pet lowers blood pressure and eases evening stress, while early childhood exposure to pets can lower the risk of developing certain allergies later in life.
The Wales Family’s Growing Pack
Orla, a Cocker Spaniel, joined the royal household in 2020 as a gift from Kate’s brother, James Middleton. An outspoken advocate for animal therapy and the founder of the pet lifestyle brand James & Ella, James credits his late dog Ella with helping him navigate his darkest personal struggles. Orla is one of Ella’s puppies.
The Wales home grew even livelier when Orla welcomed a litter of puppies. William and Kate decided to keep one of the pups, naming him Otto—a welcome addition that brought immense joy to Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.