These dogs are so large that one might wonder if a Saint Bernard can live in an apartment comfortably.
Saint Bernards do well in apartments, as long as they get daily walks and have a comfortable spot at home. Saints are calm, often even lazy dogs, so a compact space is not usually an issue. Saint Bernards are generally well-behaved, so they do well with neighbors nearby. It is best to avoid apartments where you have to go up several flights of stairs to get home because many St. Berndards develop joint pain and mobility issues as they age.
5 CHARACTERISTICS THAT MAKE SAINTS GREAT FOR APARTMENTS
1. Saint Bernards Are Calm And Well-Behaved
Although Saint Bernards are known to be challenging to train, these dogs are usually quite well-behaved, in part thanks to the balanced temperament of this breed.
Calm and not particularly reactive, a Saint is not likely to bark at a neighbor or noise.
2. Saints Are Less Prone To Separation Anxiety Than Many Other Breeds
Separation anxiety is a problem regardless of the type of housing you and your dog live in but it is more likely to become a nuisance if you live in an apartment. Many dogs, even Saints, bark at noises, for example. If your neighbors are right next to you, your dog will hear more noises and also be more audible to your neighbors.
Although separation anxiety can affect a dog of any breed, Saint Bernards are relatively independent and are a little less prone to separation anxiety. In that sense, they are better suited for living in tight communities than many other breeds.
3. Saints Do Well With Other Dogs And Human Neighbors
Saints are fairly sociable. They are happy to share a small space with the owner and the family and they tend to be courteous with neighbors.
Many people are intimidated by large dogs, even if the dog is very friendly. Be mindful of that and avoid assuming that everyone is at ease around such imposing dogs.
4. Saint Bernards Are Low-Energy Dogs
St. Bernards are mellow pups. Once these dogs grow out of puppyhood, they are not likely to need much room indoors for any rambunctious games. Your dog might have a preference for some peace and a nap.
Your Saint should have a quiet spot where he or she can rest, away from high-traffic areas in your apartment.
5. St. Bernards Do Not Bark Much
Saint Bernards are not known to be vocal, they do not bark or howl needlessly.
If your Saint is reactive to certain noises, outdoor noises, for example, then make sure that your pet masters the “quiet” command. Eventually, your dog will understand to ignore certain types of noises.
POTENTIAL ISSUES WITH SAINT BERNARDS IN APARTMENTS
If you live in an apartment and are thinking about getting a young Saint Bernard, remember how imposing these dogs can grow up to be. The size and weight are good to keep in mind for general planning.
A male Saint’s height could reach 90 cm (35 inches) with an imposing weight of up to 81 kg (180 pounds).
As we claim in this post, a small apartment is generally fine for Saint Bernards. However, if your place is truly tiny, as it is common for studio apartments in New York and other big cities popular with young professionals, it is important to picture how the dog can fit into an environment as compact as that.
Many Saints Develop Problems With Their Joints
Saints are susceptible to arthritis and hip dysplasia.
Even if you do everything right, your Saint may struggle with flights of stairs if he or she needs to climb them regularly. Your dog could appear okay but the stress on the joints accumulates over time. That is why an elevator or living on the ground floor is preferred unless the living arrangement is only temporary.
The Dog Will Probably Shed A lot
Your furry friend will shed moderately throughout the year and profusely twice a year. Of course, Saints don’t shed any more if they live in compact spaces but dog hair is just more conspicuous in a small apartment.
Something else you might have to deal with is your Saint’s saliva – these lovely pups drool a lot indeed.
Your apartment will require some extra housekeeping attention, in part thanks to your Saint Bernard.
On the positive side, Saints do not usually require any fancy grooming practices. They are also not known for being a breed prone to destructive behaviors at home. As for some fur and drool, those are easy to clean up, and most loving pet owners do not mind.
APARTMENT FEATURES TO CONSIDER
Dog-Friendly Features
The most important feature to consider is the availability of a dog walking area or a park nearby because Saints require some exercise daily. As the dog ages, being able to get to a walking area quickly might become more important.
Many apartment complexes add dog walking areas to their amenities, which is a fabulous feature, especially for busy households. Other features that are nice to have are on-site doggy daycare options, events for pet owners, and even grooming shops either on-site or nearby.
An Elevator Or Living On The Ground Floor
Joint and mobility issues afflict many Saint Bernards as they get older. That is something to consider when choosing a new place to live or preparing to welcome one of these pups into your home.
If you live on a high floor, an elevator is an important feature to keep in mind. Even if your dog is young and sprite at this time, joint problems accumulate and the dog’s mobility could somewhat decline.
Linoleum And Wood Are Better Than Carpet
Even highly disciplined animals can have accidents. That could happen due to a gastrointestinal illness or just having a distended bladder at the end of the day. Hardwood and linoleum are easier to clean up than carpets.
Dogs Enjoy A Balcony Or Patio
Dogs love fresh air, they also enjoy seeing the outdoors. It is nice and quite important to have a patio or a balcony for your large pet to chill out on a nice day and for some variety in the environment.
Patios are a great option for aging dogs because they make it easier to get outside quickly if needed.
To Conclude
As long as your dog has his place to sleep, some toys, and an opportunity to go on daily walks, your large Saint Bernard will be happy in your apartment. An apartment will be just as good for his living as a large house with a yard would be for a dog of this breed.
Just remember to keep in mind any particular needs your dog has, in addition to susceptibility to joint problems, for example, when looking for a new place to live. Space limitations are not as much of an issue, as long as your dog’s needs are met.
