Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Clingy?

Yes, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known to be clingy. These gentle giants have a strong attachment to their human family and often require constant attention and interaction. Their clinginess can manifest in various ways, from following their owners everywhere to exhibiting needy behavior when left alone.

The Bernese Mountain Dog’s Clingy Nature

Bernese Mountain Dogs are a breed that is renowned for their affectionate and loyal nature. These dogs form strong bonds with their family members and have a deep-rooted need for human companionship. This attachment can lead to a clingy behavior that can be both endearing and challenging for their owners.

Constant Need for Attention

Bernese Mountain Dogs often require constant attention and interaction from their owners. They can become distressed if left alone for extended periods or if they are not receiving enough attention. These dogs may whine, whimper, or bark to express their need for attention and affection.

Following Owners Everywhere

One of the most noticeable aspects of a Bernese Mountain Dog’s clingy behavior is their tendency to follow their owners everywhere. These dogs often become “velcro dogs,” sticking close to their family members and even becoming underfoot at times.

Needy Behavior Around 9 Months

The clinginess of Bernese Mountain Dogs can become particularly pronounced around the 9-month mark, which is considered a challenging phase in their development. During this time, they may exhibit more needy behavior, such as whining or whimpering when their owners are not around.

Seeking Physical Contact

Bernese Mountain Dogs often seek physical contact with their owners, such as cuddling, licking, or leaning against them. This physical contact is a way for them to feel comforted and secure, and it is a reflection of their strong bond with their family.

Separation Anxiety

Due to their clingy nature, Bernese Mountain Dogs can suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long or if they are not properly trained to handle being alone. This can lead to destructive behavior, barking, or other undesirable behaviors.

Managing a Bernese Mountain Dog’s Clingy Behavior

While the clingy nature of Bernese Mountain Dogs is a natural part of their breed characteristics, there are ways to manage this behavior and help your furry friend feel more secure and independent.

Provide Plenty of Exercise and Stimulation

Ensuring that your Bernese Mountain Dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can help to reduce their clinginess. Regular walks, playtime, and training sessions can help to tire them out and provide them with a healthy outlet for their energy.

Gradually Introduce Alone Time

Slowly and gradually introducing your Bernese Mountain Dog to being alone can help to reduce their separation anxiety. Start by leaving them for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration, rewarding them with treats and praise when they remain calm and relaxed.

Establish a Routine

Creating a consistent routine for your Bernese Mountain Dog can help to provide them with a sense of security and stability. This can include regular feeding times, exercise schedules, and designated quiet time.

Provide Enrichment Activities

Offering your Bernese Mountain Dog with enrichment activities, such as puzzle toys or snuffle mats, can help to keep them mentally stimulated and engaged when you are not around.

Consider Training and Socialization

Proper training and socialization can also help to manage a Bernese Mountain Dog’s clingy behavior. Obedience training can teach them to be more independent, while socialization can help them to feel more comfortable in different environments and with new people.

Conclusion

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their clingy nature, which is a result of their strong attachment to their human family. While this clinginess can be endearing, it can also be challenging for owners to manage. By providing plenty of exercise, gradually introducing alone time, establishing a routine, and considering training and socialization, you can help to reduce your Bernese Mountain Dog’s clingy behavior and help them to become more independent and secure.

References:
– Yummy Pets – Know Your Breeds: The Bernese Mountain Dog
– YouTube – Bernese Mountain Dog Behavior
– YouTube – Bernese Mountain Dog Separation Anxiety
– Reddit – Needy Berner
– Kevin the Berner – 6 Reasons Not to Get a Bernese Mountain Dog