Apartment living can be a cozy, convenient, and exciting lifestyle—especially when you share it with a loving companion like a Bernedoodle. A cross between the intelligent Poodle and the affectionate Bernese Mountain Dog, Bernedoodles are known for their charming personalities, low-shedding coats, and adaptability. Whether you're a seasoned dog parent or a first-time pup owner, living in an apartment with a Bernedoodle can be a joyful experience, especially if you're prepared with the right knowledge and tools. ​​Bernedoodles thrive in apartments thanks to their calm nature, low shedding, and intelligence. Keep them happy with daily walks, puzzle toys, and cozy spaces. Routine, training, and socialization are key to a well-adjusted apartment pup!

Why Bernedoodles Are Great for Small Spaces and Apartment Living

Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to compromise on having a loving, loyal companion. Bernedoodles, with their adaptable nature and charming personalities, are surprisingly well-suited for apartment life. Whether you’re in a cozy studio or a city high-rise, these intelligent, low-shedding dogs can thrive in compact environments. Before diving into the how-tos, it’s important to address the why: why are Bernedoodles such a great breed for apartment living? Adaptable Temperament Bernedoodles, especially when socialized early, are known for their calm, affectionate demeanor. They can be energetic when it’s playtime, but they’re also very content lounging around indoors. This makes them excellent companions in smaller living spaces. Low-Shedding Coats Thanks to their Poodle lineage, Bernedoodles tend to have hypoallergenic, low-shedding coats. This is a huge plus for apartment dwellers who prefer a cleaner living space or may have mild allergies. Size Variety Bernedoodles come in three main sizes—Standard, Mini, and Micro. For apartment living, the Mini and Micro Bernedoodles are especially ideal. They are small enough to maneuver tight spaces comfortably but still sturdy enough for outdoor adventures. Intelligence and Trainability Highly intelligent and eager to please, Bernedoodles are quick learners. This makes it easier to potty train them and teach them good indoor manners—a must for communal living spaces like apartment buildings. Quiet and Friendly Bernedoodles aren’t usually known for excessive barking, making them good neighbors in shared buildings. Their friendly disposition means they generally do well with other dogs and people in close-knit living environments.

Setting Up Your Apartment for a Bernedoodle

Bringing a Bernedoodle into your apartment is an exciting adventure, and setting up your space properly is the first step to ensuring a happy, stress-free environment for both you and your pup. While Bernedoodles are adaptable and easygoing, a well-organized apartment tailored to their needs can make all the difference. From cozy sleeping spots to smart storage solutions for toys and supplies, thoughtful planning helps your Bernedoodle feel right at home—even in a smaller space. Even in smaller living quarters, you can create a functional and comfortable space for your dog. Designate a Dog Zone Create a cozy “doggy nook” where your Bernedoodle can retreat. Use a comfy bed, soft blankets, and maybe a crate with an open door for a sense of security. This helps reinforce boundaries and gives your pup a place of their own. Use Vertical Space Apartments may lack sprawling floors, but you can maximize vertical space with wall-mounted storage for leashes, toys, and treats. Elevated dog beds or foldable playpens are also smart options. Choose Durable, Easy-to-Clean Surfaces Bernedoodles are relatively clean, but muddy paws and slobbery toys still happen. Opt for washable rugs and use slip-resistant mats for food and water bowls. Keep Hazards Out of Reach Store cleaning products, food, and small objects out of your dog's reach. Baby-proofing techniques work great—think latches and corner guards.

Exercise Needs: Keeping Your Bernedoodle Active

Bernedoodles are playful and energetic dogs that thrive on regular physical activity, even in apartment settings. Meeting their exercise needs is essential not only for their physical health but also for their mental well-being. Without enough activity, they may become bored or develop unwanted behaviors. Fortunately, with a bit of creativity and consistency, you can keep your Bernedoodle active and happy—whether it’s through daily walks, indoor games, or weekend adventures. Daily Walks are Non-Negotiable Aim for at least two walks a day—morning and evening. Walks help with physical fitness, mental stimulation, and bathroom breaks. Use the Stairs (If Safe) If you live in a building with stairs and your pup is fit enough, walking up and down a few flights can serve as a mini workout. Just avoid overexerting your dog, especially younger puppies with developing joints. Indoor Play Ideas On rainy days or busy mornings, stimulate your dog with tug-of-war, fetch in a hallway, or treat puzzles. Doggy Daycare or Dog Parks Social interaction is crucial. If you work long hours or your dog has extra energy, consider a local doggy daycare or visit a dog park regularly.

Bernedoodle Potty Training and Bathroom Routines in Apartments

Potty training a Bernedoodle in an apartment requires patience, consistency, and a solid routine. Unlike homes with yards, apartment living means you’ll need to plan bathroom breaks more carefully—especially during early puppyhood. Fortunately, Bernedoodles are intelligent and quick learners, making them well-suited for structured training. With the right approach, including crate training, scheduled potty times, and positive reinforcement, your Bernedoodle can quickly adapt to apartment bathroom routines. Use a Schedule Feed your dog at the same times daily, and take them out shortly after. Dogs thrive on routine. Know the Signs Watch for sniffing, circling, or whining—these often signal a bathroom need. Use Indoor Potty Solutions (When Needed) For high-rise dwellers or during extreme weather, puppy pads, artificial turf, or balcony potty patches are excellent tools. Always Reward Success Positive reinforcement builds trust and speeds up learning. Keep treats near the door to reward right after a successful potty break.

Bernedoodle Training Tips for Apartment Living

Training your Bernedoodle for apartment living is essential for a peaceful and enjoyable home environment. With close neighbors and limited space, good manners and obedience become even more important. Luckily, Bernedoodles are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them excellent training companions. From basic commands to leash etiquette and managing barking, a consistent and positive approach will help your Bernedoodle become a well-behaved and happy apartment pup. Crate Training A crate provides a safe space and helps reduce anxiety when you're away. It’s also a great tool during potty training. Teach “Quiet” Use positive reinforcement to teach a “quiet” command for barking. Avoid punishment—it can increase anxiety and barking. Socialization Is Key Expose your pup early to elevators, hallways, other dogs, and new people. Bernedoodles are social dogs and adapt better when properly introduced to new stimuli. Desensitize to Sounds Elevators, footsteps, and doorbells can cause alarm. Use recorded city noises during playtime to gradually get your pup used to these sounds.

Bernedoodle Grooming and Cleaning in an Apartment

Keeping your Bernedoodle well-groomed and your apartment clean can go hand in hand with the right routine. Bernedoodles have beautiful, low-shedding coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep them looking their best. In an apartment, managing fur, odor, and muddy paws is especially important to maintain a fresh, tidy space. With a few smart tools and habits, you can make grooming and cleaning simple and stress-free—even in a smaller home. Brush Regularly Depending on coat type (wavy, curly, or straight), Bernedoodles need brushing 3–5 times a week to prevent matting and shedding buildup. Invest in a Pet Vacuum Apartment dwellers benefit from cordless, quiet vacuums. These are great for quick cleanups of fur, dirt, or kibble crumbs. Wipe Paws After Walks Especially in cities, your dog’s paws pick up grime. Use baby wipes or a damp cloth to avoid tracking it into your home. Regular Baths Bathing every 4–6 weeks with a gentle dog shampoo keeps your pup fresh. Be sure to dry them thoroughly to avoid musty smells in tight quarters.

Managing Alone Time: Preventing Separation Anxiety with Your Bernedoodle

Bernedoodles are affectionate, people-loving dogs that thrive on companionship, which can make alone time challenging—especially in an apartment setting. Without proper preparation, they may develop separation anxiety, leading to stress and unwanted behaviors. Fortunately, with the right techniques and routines, you can help your Bernedoodle feel secure and comfortable when you're away. From crate training to mental stimulation and gradual departures, managing alone time is key to a well-adjusted, happy pup. Start with Short Departures Begin with short separations and gradually increase. Always leave quietly and return calmly. Use Calming Aids Try music, calming collars, or diffusers with pheromones like Adaptil to soothe anxiety. Puzzle Toys and Chews Leave behind engaging toys like KONGs stuffed with treats, lick mats, or interactive feeders to occupy their minds while you’re away. Dog Cameras Consider pet cameras to check in and even talk to your pup remotely. Some models dispense treats too!

Dealing with Barking in Shared Spaces

Barking can be a challenge in apartment living, especially when sharing walls with neighbors. Bernedoodles, though typically gentle and calm, may bark when they’re excited, anxious, or seeking attention. Managing barking in shared spaces is important not only for maintaining peace at home but also for keeping good relationships with neighbors. With the right training and strategies, you can minimize unnecessary noise and help your Bernedoodle learn when it’s time to be quiet, ensuring a calm environment for everyone. Close Windows or Use Curtains Blocking visual and auditory stimuli can minimize barking triggers. Reward Calm Behavior Any time your dog hears a noise and stays quiet, reward them. Reinforcing silence makes a big difference. Tire Them Out A tired dog is a quiet dog. Regular mental and physical stimulation can drastically reduce barking.

Making Friends in the Building

Living in an apartment building offers great opportunities for your Bernedoodle to socialize and make new furry friends, but it requires a little effort to ensure positive interactions. Whether it’s with other dogs in the building or friendly neighbors, socialization plays a key role in your Bernedoodle's happiness and behavior. By introducing your pup to other pets and people in a controlled, positive way, you can help them build good relationships, creating a supportive and enjoyable environment for everyone in your building. Practice Elevator Etiquette Teach your dog to sit while waiting for the elevator and let others enter or exit first. Greet Respectfully Not everyone is a dog lover. Ask permission before allowing your dog to greet neighbors. Join or Start a Pet Group Many apartment buildings or neighborhoods have pet parent social groups. They’re great for playdates, info-sharing, and forming connections.

The Joy of City Living with a Bernedoodle

City living with a Bernedoodle is a unique and rewarding experience filled with adventure, connection, and companionship. These adaptable, intelligent dogs thrive in urban environments when given the right balance of exercise, training, and love. From morning walks through bustling neighborhoods to relaxing evenings in cozy apartments, Bernedoodles bring joy, charm, and a calming presence to city life. With a little planning and plenty of cuddles, you’ll discover that urban living with a Bernedoodle is both manageable and incredibly fulfilling. Built-In Adventure Elevators, parks, cafes, and bustling sidewalks are daily adventures that keep your dog mentally sharp.Snuggles Galore Tight quarters just mean more closeness. Bernedoodles love to cuddle, making them perfect lap (or feet) companions. Community Bonds Bernedoodles naturally bring people together with their adorable looks and friendly demeanor. Expect lots of attention and new connections with fellow dog lovers. Apartment living with a Bernedoodle isn’t just doable—it can be downright delightful. With the right balance of training, activity, and affection, your furry friend will thrive even in the coziest of spaces. From their adaptable nature to their calm demeanor and low-shedding coats, Bernedoodles are a match made in heaven for modern apartment dwellers. With these tips in hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a safe, stimulating, and joyful environment for your lovable doodle in the heart of your city home.