A space of
their own.

For dogs: a familiar place to unwind

Choose a spot away from busy walkways, with comfortable bedding and drinking water nearby. Some dogs prefer quiet; others relax best within sight of the family. Leave enough room to stand, turn and stretch. Remove loose cables and small objects that could be swallowed.

Your dog should be able to enter and leave freely. If an appropriate crate forms the den, secure its door open. Introduce the retreat before a busy gathering or noisy evening, so it already feels familiar. Keep it welcoming: never use it as punishment or pull your dog out. Each dog in a shared home needs their own resting option. [1]

For cats: a hide, a view and a way out

Offer both concealment and a comfortable lookout. A sturdy cardboard box on its side, a familiar carrier with bedding or a stable perch can provide choices without a shopping list. In a home with several cats, arrange retreats with escape routes so one cat cannot trap another. Spread resting places through the home.

Food, water, litter trays, scratching areas and resting places should be suitably separated. Give cats access to resources without having to pass a housemate who blocks the way. Keep perches reachable; lower steps or ramps can help a cat with limited mobility. [2]

Make it a household habit

Show children and visitors where your buddy rests and agree to leave them undisturbed there. For dogs, this is an explicit part of keeping a den secure and welcoming. [1]

Let a cat approach people when ready and move away when they choose. When welcoming a new cat, a quiet starting room with their essentials gives them a manageable place to settle. Familiar bedding can help the room feel less strange. Keep interactions calm and allow exploration at the cat’s pace. [3]

Change one thing gently

Cats benefit from familiar surroundings and a reasonably steady daily routine. Introduce new arrangements gradually where possible. Keep feeding times consistent while offering safe novelty through play and objects to investigate. An empty cardboard box can be an inviting place to explore before it is recycled. [4]

Try this at home

• Watch where your buddy chooses to rest.
• Check that access and escape routes stay clear.
• Give each animal an accessible retreat.
• Make quiet rest a shared household rule.
• Review the arrangement as age, health or household circumstances change.

Use these prompts alongside the dog and cat guidance above. A useful space is one your buddy can comfortably choose and use.