By DogLovely Team
The Bernese Mountain dog is indeed a big dog. And most people will argue that apartment living isn’t suitable for big dogs due to the fact that apartments lack enough space. So can you really look after a Bernese Mountain dog if you don’t own a house with a big yard?
Why Bernese Mountain Dog lives better outdoors?
For starters, let’s get something straight. The Bernese originates from the Swiss Alps and as its name suggests, it really is a mountain dog. It was bred for farm keeping and not for apartment living. Its physique and fur coat are ideal for outdoor alpine environment.
The Bernese pup isn’t bred as an average lap dog that dwells well in an apartment based enclosure.
This breed reaches up to 120lbs in weight and 28 inches in height. It is indeed a large dog, which is as tall as the popular Labrador Retriever, only heavier. Big dogs and apartment living don’t go hand in hand, especially canines like the Bernese Mountain. They are destined to reside in the outdoors and to have lots of free space where they can roam freely, run, explore and exercise. Of course, you can look after any dog breed in an apartment as long as you take it outside as often as needed. But is it truly worth it to put such limitations on the puppy?
Bernese Mountain dogs have a strong physique with noteworthy tough leg muscles. It’s proven that the Bernie can pull up baggage 10 times heavier than its own body weight.
Throughout the years these dogs have been used for pulling sleighs and carts. They can’t be watchdogs due to their shyness and fear of abandonment, but they do love working on a farm. The Bernese Mountain adores open spaces, running, playing and pleasing its owner. As such, it needs to be taken for longer walks at least a couple of times every day. It also needs to socialize with other people and animals, otherwise it cannot overcome its shyness and reserved temper.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are the best companion for longer walks. They need walks at least a couple of times every day.
So, is the Bernese Mountain dog suitable for apartment living against all odds? It’s not, but if you really want to own a Bernie and you can’t afford a house with a yard, there are ways to make it work.
You must exercise the pup on daily basis and you need to be persistent with the training. Bernese Mountain dogs are susceptible to training, although they mature much slower than other breeds, and that makes the training process harder for them. They are prone to suffering from a number of health related issues, such as hip and joint diseases. This means they can’t use the stairs, especially while they’re growing up.
Bernese are prone to suffering from hip and joint diseases. They need active exercise and puppies should avoid stairs.
Natural and Chewy Supplement for Bernese Mountain Dog
As I’ve mentioned, it is good to give a healthy and natural joint supplement for your Bernese Mountain dog to help any mobility issues. If your dog suffers from any joint issues, please, contact your vet. There are also some healthy and natural soft chews that could relieve joint pain and discomfort.
One that I’d recommend is the StrellaLab hemp chews for joint relief and support.
The advanced hip and joint supplement by StrellaLab contains hemp protein which has the properties to improve mobility.
These hemp chews are healthy and delicious + your canine will love them as they have a duck flavor which makes them a preferred treat over the traditional tablets or liquid supplements.
These soft chews are a top pick, because:
- Veterinarian formulated
- Made in USA with the best ingredients
- 120 soft chews of great value
- Easy to give as dogs love them due to their treats-like texture
- Perfect relief and support for hip dysplasia or any discomfort in senior dogs
- The right amount of ingredients to tackle joint pain and inflammation
- These chews help the immune system as they contain the powerful turmeric
- Hemp + Glucosamine soft chews that are true delicious, duck flavored treats
- Source of vitamins thanks to the hemp seed oil and hemp protein
- MSM, omega-6 and omega-3 acids to combat inflammatory issues
- Turmeric as a natural ingredient that reduces joint stiffness and discomfort
- 1 chew per day, so the jar is sufficient for about 4 months
The jar may not be sufficient for a longer period for large dog breeds as the Bernese Mountain dog. Still my research proves that is great value for money as compared to other brands.
Bernese Mountain Dog Coat and Weather
Their thick long-haired coats are suited for cold weather, so they may find it hard residing in a warm apartment. Furthermore, their fear of abandonment may cause them to become destructive when left alone. Lastly, while they don’t require a lot of brushing, they do shed significant amounts of hair.
So, let’s sum it up. If you’re looking for a big dog for an apartment, the Bernie isn’t the right choice for you. Their health problems, joint issues, thick fur coat and need of exercise aren’t suited for apartment living. Raising a Bernie in an apartment is not impossible, but it will affect the health of your pup.
Bernese Mountain dogs are best raised in a yard where the weather is mild to cold all year long.
Best Beds for Bernese Mountain Dog
If you still consider having your lovely Bernese dog in your flat, make sure that you invest in a comfy bed or a bed mat. I’d recommend you a washable dog mattress which you can easily clean. Always opt for a dog bed for big dog breeds and don’t underestimate the investment in a dog mattress which is specifically formulated for orthopedic use.
Big Barker 7″ Pillow Top Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large and Extra Large Breed Dogs
