The Bernese mountain dog is one of the most lovable breeds in the dog fraternity. Pet lovers can’t take their eyes off these “gentle giants”. The majestic tri-color coat, its gentle eyes, and loyalty are the most notable factors that dog lovers love about them. However, despite craving a Bernese mountain dog, most individuals realize, that the lack of availability in space makes it impossible to own a Bern.
It is a fact that the majority of the population lives in urban apartments that lack the amenities of spacious countryside homes. The Bernese mountain dog needs ample space and urban apartments can seldom provide it. However, some dog lovers have managed to do the impossible, i.e. they are living happily with their beloved Bern in an apartment. Well, if you are ready to put up commitment, planning, and compromise, then you too can bring home a Bern in an urban apartment. Let us find out how.
Reasons that make Bern unfit for apartment living
Firstly, let us investigate the reasons that make Bernese difficult to accommodate in apartments. A full-grown Bern can weigh between 70 to 115 pounds and grow up to 28 inches tall. Based on the stats, you realize, that is a very big size to deal in a small apartment. Things can get even more complicated if the apartment does not have an elevator. Then again, the common things present in apartments like tight hallways, narrow doorways, and
restricted open spaces are all red flags for a breed as large as the Bern.
Although the Bernese may not be as active as some of the other larger breeds, it still needs a fair dose of physical activity to stay healthy and on the top of its mood. Taking it out for a short walk twice a day is just not sufficient. Then again, they need space to stretch their legs, run, and participate in various stimulating activities. The lack of the aforementioned will soon make Bern feel bored. Eventually, it will show signs of restlessness and become aggressive.
Urban apartments tend to be noisy, and sometimes it can outpour. For instance, noisy neighbors, the sound of doorbells, elevators, and so on. Berners are known to be sensitive to sounds, and experiencing such noise regularly would make them anxious and propel them to bark frequently. It can then become a cause of disturbance for the neighbors.
Urban apartments are usually surrounded by concrete. It can make life difficult for the Bernese mountain dog. Remember, they sport a thick double coat, ideal for the cold weather of the Alps, and not for the concrete jungle.
Bernese mountain dogs are renowned for their shedding and they reach the peak during seasonal changes. Apartments can therefore be filled with hair which can be a cause of concern.
Tips to beat the challenges of the apartment
Understandably, after going through the exhaustive list of cons associated with urban apartment living in Bern, the heart will sink if you too are a resident of a similar place. Yet, your desire to own a Bern can be possible minus the troubles mentioned here. As mentioned before, some owners have successfully managed to raise happy and healthy Bernese mountain dogs in apartments. So, you can do it too by following these tips.
Engaging in regular outdoor adventures
Those who have been successful in raising a Bern in the apartments made sure the dog engaged in intriguing outdoor sessions. Yes, it isn’t about taking them out for a casual walk but to engage them actively in parks. Therefore, early morning hikes, and going to distant places where other dog owners come to play with their pets can keep the Bern interested and energetic. Likewise, you can take it to nearby trails or dog parks regularly to keep its engagement quotient high.
Crate and space management
Once Bern knows they have a dedicated space for relaxing, it makes them feel safe and reduces the feeling of remaining confided. Apartment dwellers often make use of spacious crates or dedicate the entire corner of the room to their favorite toys, blankets, and other accessories to make it feel comfortable. For best results, getting them to look through the window can also help a lot.
Training and socialization
As a dog lover, you would already know, that Bernese mountain dogs are considered an intelligent species and they are always eager to learn. This quality makes it easier for the owner to train the dog. As residents of an apartment must abide by a set of rules, proper training would help Bern to remain quiet and be friendly with people around. For the best results, you should start training them as early as possible, when they are still pups.
Since physical space is naturally limited in an apartment, owners must focus on the mental enrichment of the Bernese mountain dogs. It can be achieved with the help of puzzle toys, obedience games, making them go for a trail after you ask them to detect a scent, and trick training. Each of these activities can tire them mentally. And when a Bern gets tired, it will behave better.
Periodic grooming
You ought to stay ahead of the time and groom them before their hairs start shedding. Ensure, brushing the Bern at least thrice a week and increase the regularity during the shedding season. Furthermore, you should wipe their paws after returning from long walks. Following these tips will keep the apartment cleaner and most importantly ensure the dog is in the best of condition.
Points to consider before bringing home a Bernese mountain dog
As you can see, it is possible to raise a Bern in an apartment. But before making the final call, you should consider having answers to the following:
- Can you commit to multiple long walks and exercise sessions daily?
- Does your home have nearby access to dog parks or open spaces?
- Do you have the finances ready to spend on its regular grooming and training daily?
- Do you have tolerant neighbors who are ready to bear the tantrums of this large dog?
- If all these questions yield affirmative answers, welcome, you can gladly accept the challenge of raising your favorite Bern in your urban apartment.
