Sleep–wake dynamics in veteran–service dog dyads: an exploration of overnight concordance

Veteran-service dog dyads demonstrate sleep-wake concordance rates comparable to those reported in other close relationships (e.g. mother-infant, couples), and service dogs appear more sensitive to veteran wakefulness than the other way around. This novel investigation offers a framework for future research on human-service dog overnight dynamics, emphasizing the mutual attunement of veterans and their service dogs. Statement of Significance This study explores high-fidelity overnight sleep-wake dynamics in an interspecies context, focusing on veteran-service dog dyads. We analyzed data simultaneously collected from both the humans and service dogs. We found that these unique partnerships exhibited sleep-wake concordance (e.g. alignment in sleep and wake episodes) at rates similar to other close relationships, such as couples as well as parents and children. However, concordance was not associated with self-reported bond strength, veteran well-being, or service dog well-being. Future research should explore concurrent physiological measures (e.g. heart rate, blood pressure, respiration rate, skin temperature, and cortisol levels), which may provide more sensitive indicators of stress and well-being. Overall, our findings enhance our understanding of the complex overnight dynamics of service dog teams.