Once you get a pet, you’ll inevitably face a question you might never have considered: Should I let my pet watch me have sex?

Is it okay for your dog to watch?
With cats, this is rarely an issue. They tend to be live-and-let-live creatures, showing little interest in your "weird" activities as long as their needs are met. Dogs, however, are a different story—you can never predict whether their reaction will be goofy, chaotic, or even hysterical. While most reactions are funny, others can be annoying or problematic. Some owners lock their dog in another room to avoid issues, but I urge reconsideration: the dog may interpret this as punishment, and your intimacy shouldn’t equate to a canine crime.

Sex is natural.
Intimacy is a natural part of life, and animals handle natural things well. If the situation feels awkward, you’re likely the one making it so. Normalizing it benefits everyone. Remember: dogs aren’t people. Don’t feel shy—if you stay calm, your dog will quickly learn this is just another uninteresting human activity.

Embrace the absurdity.
The journey will include hilarious moments. For example, butt-sniffing is canine communication 101, so if you’re in doggy-style position, your pet may feel invited to investigate exposed areas—like you’re clumsily speaking their language.

Similarly, dogs need time to learn that oral sex isn’t a group activity. Until then, don’t be shocked if a snout bumps you mid-act, accompanied by an impatient look that screams, "Hey, what’s the deal? Mind if I try?"

Treat these interruptions as what they are: comedy gold. Laughter has always been good sex’s best ally in my experience. Pausing for a genuine laugh at your dog’s antics never killed the mood. Humor sustains healthy relationships—and honestly, my dog is the only "person" who makes me laugh daily.

Should your dog sleep in your bed?
No easy answer. If yes, expect to wash sheets more often, bathe your dog more thoroughly, and adapt routines. Science confirms disease risk is minimal.

Bed-sharing unleashes goofiness that may disrupt sleep or sex, but it also offers the comfort of cuddling a warm, emotionally expressive companion—something invaluable during emotionally taxing times (like a pandemic).

You’re not the only one with needs.
Dogs change spontaneity. They need walks at least 3x daily—factor this into your plans, or risk being interrupted mid-intercourse by a desperate pup demanding a potty break.

Modifying behavior.
Breed-specific quirks may lead to annoying interruptions. Address these through redirection (until they lose interest) and reinforcement of desirable behaviors. Learn to shape an environment that works for everyone.

Note: The "pack leader" theory is scientifically debunked. Cesar Millan’s dominance-based methods are controversial—opt for positive-reinforcement trainers instead.

Deeper issues.
Some behaviors signal insecurity (e.g., resource guarding—where your dog barks, growls, or bites to separate you from a partner during affection). If this occurs, consult a qualified expert (avoid trainers advocating domination; choose positive-reinforcement methods).