WHAT TYPE OF DOG BED DOES MY BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG NEED?

What Size Dog Bed Should My Bernese Mountain Dog Have?

When it comes to choosing your dog's bed, size does matter. A dog bed should be perfectly proportionate to the size of the dog: neither too big nor too small. A small dog bed will not suit a large dog and vice versa. In any case, bigger doesn't always mean better; it's quite unnecessary to opt for a dog bed that's too large for your Bernese Mountain Dog. Dogs like to feel surrounded and protected. When lying down, the edges should just touch your dog on all sides, so that they feel safe and secure but not cramped. 

You can choose a basket-type dog bed with a raised edge to reinforce the impression of your dog being well supported and surrounded. Some doggies, however, don't like the feeling so much. In this case, a pillow dog bed, without a rim, will be perfectly suited to your dog. But again, choose a pillow dog bed suitable for the size of your Bernese Mountain Dog.

What's the Best Material for a Dog Bed?

The choice of material is also important. If your pooch has destructive tendencies, you’ll be better off with a plastic dog bed, which is sturdier and much easier to clean than a fabric or leather dog bed, for example. A plastic dog bed also saves you from pest infestations, such as dust mites. Plastic dog beds are less comfortable than other types of dog bed, but you can make them cosy and comfortable by adding blankets and pillows. In any case, avoid wicker baskets, which are more likely to be destroyed. Your dog could swallow the debris, causing intestinal obstruction or suffocation.

Where Should I Put My Bernese Mountain Dog's Bed?

Don’t place your Bernese Mountain Dog’s bed just anywhere! Choose a quiet area, out of the way, which is airy and well ventilated, such as a corner of the living room, for example. Your dog must be able to sleep without fear of being disturbed. As such, if you have children, teach them to respect your Bernese Mountain Dog’s sleeping habits. No matter how nice your dog is normally, they might react badly to be woken up!

Be careful to establish boundaries early on. Try to avoid having your dog's bed in your bedroom. Bernese Mountain Dogs have a loyal temperament and develop a close bond with their owners. This means they could easily develop an excessive attachment to you, which could later turn into separation anxiety This disorder will seriously affect your dog’s quality of life. It can manifest as barking, which will quickly become problematic if you live in an apartment, or destructive tendencies.

Can Bernese Mountain Dogs Sleep Outside?

If you prefer, your Bernese Mountain Dog can also sleep in your garden, provided, of course, that they have a kennel in which to take refuge. Despite their thick, glossy coat, these doggies still need protection from the cold and bad weather. As with a dog bed, choose a kennel proportionate to the size of your dog. Ideally, your dog's kennel should be about ten centimetres higher than their standing height. Your Bernese Mountain Dog should be able to stand up and turn around without touching the walls. Lengthwise, choose a kennel twice the length of your four-legged friend, measured from nose to tail. Additionally, since kennels don’t have heating, your dog will warm it up with their own body heat; the more space around them, the more difficult it will be to keep warm.

There are several types of dog kennel on the market, most of which are made of plastic or wood. Each material has its pros and cons:

• Plastic kennels have the advantage of being lighter, easy to clean, more easily transportable, and also much less expensive. However, they are not so well insulated nor robust and can deteriorate quickly. This means that your dog may be too hot in summer and too cold in winter. 

• Wooden kennels are more expensive but offer better insulation both from the cold and the heat. They are also much sturdier and constitute a better investment in the long term. Wooden kennels also require more maintenance.

If you live in an area with a lot of rainfall, opt for a kennel with a sloped roof. This prevents water from stagnating and damaging the kennel. Alternatively, if you live in a rather dry area, choose a kennel with a flat roof. You can also place the kennel on a pillory or a concrete slab to elevate it slightly from the ground and improve insulation. This will help to protect your dog against parasites and insects as well.

Think carefully about where in the garden to place your dog's kennel. Try to situate it in a strategic location, where your dog can observe their territory unobstructed. Your Bernese Mountain Dog must be able to come and go as they please. If the kennel has a door, it must be easily accessible and never locked or blocked. Above all, never tie your dog up in front of their kennel! They must be able to shelter easily. Remember to place a bowl of fresh water nearby at all times, and especially in summer when the temperature rises.

Finally, remember that the Bernese Mountain Dog is a dog that likes to be close to its master. If possible, your pooch will much prefer to sleep inside your house or apartment, alongside their family.