Should Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed After You Get a Tattoo?
I love dogs. If you’ve followed me for any amount of time, you know mine are basically part of the family. They’re cuddly, comforting, and sometimes the best therapy after a long day. So it feels natural to curl up with them at night, right?
But here’s the thing, if you just got a fresh tattoo, letting your pup sleep in bed with you might not be the best idea.
A Tattoo Is an Open Wound
When I tattoo you, I’m creating tiny punctures in your skin with every pass of the needle. That’s what allows the ink to settle in and heal into the design you love. But until it heals, that area is technically an open wound.
Your dog may be the cleanest, sweetest creature on earth, but even the cleanest dogs carry bacteria, hair, and dander. Add that to the fact that they lick themselves, roll around outside, and shed constantly… and suddenly your cozy bed doesn’t seem so clean.
What Can Go Wrong
If dog hair, dirt, or bacteria make their way into your healing tattoo, it can cause:
Redness and irritation that lasts longer than normal
Infection (think swelling, pus, or odor)
Scarring or raised texture
Distortion or fading of your tattoo lines and color
Not only is an infection painful, but it can also change how your tattoo looks permanently. After putting so much thought, time, and money into your piece, the last thing you want is to risk ruining it.
Protecting Both Your Tattoo and Your Pup
So what’s the solution? It doesn’t mean you love your dog any less. It just means you’re setting boundaries while your tattoo heals. A few tips I always recommend:
✨ Wash and change your sheets before you get your tattoo, and keep them fresh while you heal.
✨ As tempting as it is, keep your dog out of the bed for at least the first couple of weeks.
✨ Stick to your aftercare routine (I send everyone home with instructions!) so your tattoo heals clean and bright.
Remember: this is temporary. Once your tattoo is fully healed, cuddle time can resume. And you’ll be able to enjoy it even more knowing your tattoo is safe and looking its best.
Final Thoughts
I get it—it’s tough to say no to those puppy eyes at bedtime. But think of it this way: you’re protecting the investment you just made in your art and keeping your dog from accidentally hurting you. It’s a win-win.
So for now? Give your pup a kiss, set them up with their own cozy blanket, and let your tattoo heal the way it deserves to. Your art (and your future self) will thank you.
