CAN BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOGS LIVE IN APARTMENTS?

While it’s clear that the Bernese Mountain Dog is a very large dog with impressive measurements, living in an apartment does not necessarily mean you have to give up on owning one. But is a Bernese Mountain Dog suitable for your lifestyle? Or would you risk them being unhappy living in an apartment? Find out below.

Can I Live in an Apartment with a Bernese Mountain Dog?

The short answer is: yes, so long as certain conditions are met. For some, having a large dog like a Bernese Mountain Dog in an apartment is to be avoided due to lack of space, boredom, no garden, etc. There are plenty of reasons not to do it. Australian Shepherds and Border Collies, for example, are medium to large-sized dogs, that would find it more difficult than the Bernese Mountain Dog to get used to apartment life. However, contrary to popular belief, a Bernese Mountain Dog can quite easily adapt to apartment and city life, under certain conditions! 

This large doggy, who can reach up to 70cm in adulthood, needs quality time with its owner above all else. The good-natured Bernese Mountain Dog develops a strong bond with its human family and craves cuddles and strokes all day long. This dog breed is known to be affectionate and dependent. As such, your Bernese Mountain Dog would be much happier living in an apartment and receiving lots of attention than living in a big house but spending all day alone in the garden. These dogs are real home-bodies who enjoy long naps on the sofa or at your feet, rather than going running for hours.

But be careful: this does not mean that your Bernese Mountain Dog doesn’t need to exercise. If you live in an apartment, you need to compensate for the lack of space. Moreover, we strongly recommend you don’t live with a dog of this size in a small studio or apartment less than 50m².

How Do I Adjust My Bernese Mountain Dog to Apartment Life?

In order for your dog to be perfectly comfortable, even in a small space, you will have to make some compromises. Take your dog out in the morning, before leaving for work, for at least 1.5 hours to make sure they get to stretch their paws properly. Also, be sure to take your pooch out again when you get home. Also, don't forget to take shorter walks so that they can do their business outside.

If you work from home, the situation is ideal, as you’ll be able to take care of your Bernese Mountain Dog and spend lots of time with them. If you work in an office, try to come home for lunch and take your dog for a walk to break up their day. Purchase some brain games for your Bernese Mountain Dog to play with while you're gone, to stimulate their mind and keep them occupied. If you can't make it home, ask an acquaintance, friend, or neighbour to pop in on your dog; you can even hire a dog sitter. If your dog gets bored, they are likely to bark and disturb the neighbours, and may even destroy your furniture. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a sociable dog, who has no problem with other dogs or other pets, such as cats. If you can afford it, why not give your pooch a furry friend to play with?

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How Do I Teach My Bernese Mountain Dog to be Alone?

For your beautiful tricolour dog to thrive in an apartment, you must teach them to handle being alone fairly early on. This is an essential step that must begin as soon as you welcome your puppy home. Puppies learn much more easily than adults: take advantage of it! Start by leaving your house for a few minutes, then come back. Gradually increase the time you’re gone, until you can leave your dog alone for two or three hours at a time. However, avoid leaving your Bernese Mountain Dog alone for more than six hours. Training your puppy is essential for them to be mentally and physically balanced. If your lifestyle prevents you from spending enough time with your dog, this breed might not be for you.

What are the Ideal Living Conditions of a Bernese Mountain Dog?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally easy-going and docile by nature and can be comfortable almost anywhere. However, they will thrive more naturally in the countryside, in a house with large grounds, where they can roam freely and exercise as they wish. These dogs enjoy life in the mountains and by the sea. They make excellent family dogs, being completely unaggressive and great with children. Very versatile, Bernese Mountain Dogs also make excellent watchdogs. The ideal master for the Bernese Mountain Dog is present, available, and doesn’t mind a furry shadow! You must also enjoy long walks and have plenty of time to devote to your pooch.

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