Question:
My wife and I adopted Lucky, a neutered male Boston terrier, five years ago. At that time, the educated guess of his age was 8, making him about 13 now.
We couldn't have gotten a more lovable or sweeter dog than him. He loves people but is not fond of other animals.
He always has slept between my wife and me with his head on a pillow. I have only one problem with this -- Lucky suffers from "restless paw syndrome." Consequently, we suffer right along with him. Because of this, we cannot get a full night's sleep. He is constantly moving around and jabbing us with his paws.
Do you have any possible suggestion, aside from getting rid of him (something we won't do -- Lucky is here to stay)?
N. & M.S., Boca Raton, FL Aug 16, 2011
Answer:
Sleeping with a restless dog is the price you pay for not training him to sleep at the end of the bed or in his own bed beside yours. Boston terriers are also known to snore, so I can't imagine sleeping with his head on a pillow next to mine.
Some tough love is called for. Be prepared for a few sleepless nights while you train him, with praise and treats, to stay on his own pillow at the far end of the bed or in a soft dog bed beside you.
Ingrained comfort-seeking habits are hard to break in man and beast alike. Good luck with Lucky and with changing his creature comforts.
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