Grooming is an important part of owning a Bernedoodle. There aren’t any downsides to having these beautiful dogs since they make such a great companion. But, like all dogs, they require some specialized Bernedoodle grooming to keep them looking and feeling their best. It’s important to either take your fur baby to the groomers regularly or learn how to groom a Bernedoodle yourself.
Even though grooming a Bernedoodle can be fun and a nice bonding experience, a major factor that plays a significant role in determining the grooming needs and time commitment of a Bernedoodle is their coat type. The coat type will affect how often you need to groom your dog and what types of grooming tools and products you will need.
Are you in the right place?! Click here to find out what to do about Bernese mountain dog shedding
Understanding a Bernedoodle Coat
All Bernedoodles are a mix of breeds: the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. This hybridization can create some interesting coat possibilities since the Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle come in various coat types. These dogs have different needs based on their coat type, which directly impacts the Bernedoodle’s grooming requirements.
The three coat types that Bernedoodles can have are:
Wavy (Fleece) Coat
It is a 50/50 combination of a Bernese Mountain Dog’s straight and curly coat and the Poodle parent. What is so great about a wavy coat is that it is smooth and soft and usually sheds very little hair. It is also less prone to matting as compared to curly hair.
The Bernedoodles F1 and F2 are likelier to have a wavy coat, although the coat can always be either straight or curly.
Straight Coat
They are characterized by long, thick hair that can be found on both the body and face of the Bernedoodle. Although this coat type is not as low-maintenance as the wavy coat, it is still relatively easy to take care of. The biggest difference between the two is that the straight-coated Bernedoodle will require more brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
The straight coat resembles mostly the Bernese Mountain Dog parent and can be found in F1b and multigenerational Bernedoodles. They are typically long coats, but some inherit a shorter coat from the Poodle parent.
Curly (Wool) Coat:
This is the most high-maintenance coat type of the three, but it is also the most hypoallergenic. Curly-coated Bernedoodles will require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. The good news is that curly-coated Bernedoodles do not shed much, if at all.
The curly coat is inherited from the Poodle parent’s coat, with the hair being tightly curled. They are popular among families with allergies since they are considered to be hypoallergenic.
Top Bernedoodle Haircuts
Before deciding which haircut is best for your Bernedoodle, you should consult a professional groomer. They will be able to help you determine which style will work best for your dog based on their coat type, face shape, the climate you live in, your lifestyle, and overall personality.
A shorter Bernedoodle haircut would be more practical if you’d prefer to spend less time grooming your dog. They will require less brushing and will be easier to keep clean. This type of haircut is also better suited for hot climates. During winter or if you live in a cold climate, a short haircut is not the best idea since it won’t offer much protection against the cold weather.
Some of the most popular Bernedoodle haircuts include the following:
Poodle Cut
You have to be specific when asking for this type of haircut since there are many variations of the Poodle cut. The basic idea is to have the body clipped short and the legs, head, and neck left longer. A poodle cut is high maintenance, but it’s a stylish haircut for Bernedoodles.
Summer Cut
If you live in a warm climate or are looking for a low-maintenance option, then the summer cut might be the right choice. The summer cut is easy to maintain, and it won’t require a lot of grooming.
Teddy Bear Cut
It gives the dog a cute and cuddly appearance, with a rounded face and a fluffy body. It makes the Bernedoodle look like a teddy bear, hence the name.
Lamb Cut
This is a very popular choice among Bernedoodle owners. The lamb cut leaves the face, legs, and tail area short, while the body is clipped longer. This haircut is perfect for dogs that love to play since it’s easy to maintain and won’t get in the way.
The Winter Cut
As the name suggests, this haircut is better suited for winter or for those who like long coats for their dogs. You might have to see the groomers more often since the hair will require more maintenance due to mats and tangles. We don’t recommend this haircut if you live in a warm climate or your dog likes to play outside.
Puppy Cut
This haircut is popular with those who want to preserve their dog’s puppy-like appearance. It’s also a good choice for first-time Bernedoodle owners since it’s relatively easy to take care of.
Kennel Cut
The Bernedoodle kennel cut is particularly helpful when dogs will be boarding or in kennels where there are fewer space and grooming options. The haircut prevents mat and tangles and is easy to take care of. It is easy to maintain since it leaves the hair short all over the body.
Mohawk Cut
Groomers like doing creative and fun haircuts, and the Bernedoodle Mohawk is one of them. This type of haircut is perfect for those who want their dog to stand out from the crowd, although it is not the most practical choice. The Mohawk is easy to take care of, and it won’t require a lot of grooming.
Even though there are many different types of haircuts you can choose from, the most important thing is to find one that you’re comfortable with, suits your lifestyle, and caters to your dog’s needs.
12 Tools you will Need to Groom your Bernedoodle At Home
Prior to buying your grooming tools, it is important to know the type of coat your Bernedoodle has. This will help you determine which types of brushes and combs are best suited for your dog. If you’re unsure about your dog’s coat type, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian. Here are the 12 essential tools you will need to groom your Bernedoodle at home:
Grooming Table
A grooming table will make the grooming process a lot easier since it will keep your dog at a comfortable height. It will also prevent you from bending over for long periods, which can be quite tiring. A grooming arm attached to the table will also help keep your dog steady, allowing you to focus on the grooming process.
Brush
A slicker brush is a must-have for all Bernedoodle owners. It’s perfect for removing tangles, mats, and loose hair. It’s also gentle on the coat and won’t damage the hair follicles. You can also go for a pin brush which is great for dogs with longer and curly coats, or a bristle brush which is perfect for dogs with shorter coats.
Comb
A wide-toothed comb is a must-have for all Bernedoodle owners. It’s perfect for detangling the coat and removing any mats or tangles. It’s also great for evenly distributing the dog’s natural oils throughout the coat, giving it a healthy shine.
Clippers
Clippers are essential for keeping your Bernedoodle’s coat short and trimmed. You will need to use them every few weeks to prevent the hair from getting too long. Non-shedding Bernedoodles will require more frequent trimmings since their hair grows faster.
Scissors
Scissors are useful for trimming the hair around the face, ears, anus, and paws. They’re also great for creating different hairstyles, with longer or shorter hair. Select good quality scissors that are comfortable to hold and use.
Detangler Sprays
Detangler sprays can be very helpful in making the grooming process a lot easier. They help loosen any mats or tangles, making them easier to brush. They also help to condition the coat and make it softer and more manageable.
Nail Clippers or Nail Grinder
Overgrown nails can be quite uncomfortable for your dog and lead to health problems. It’s important to keep them trimmed regularly, using either nail clippers or a grinder. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, you can always take your dog to a professional groomer.
Thinning Shears
Thinning shears create a softer look and prevent the coat from looking too bulky. They’re also perfect for blending different hair lengths, creating a natural look. The result is a softer and more natural-looking coat.
Good-Quality Shampoo and Conditioner
There are many different dog shampoos and conditioners available on the market for different coat types or skin condition, purpose, and smell. You should avoid using human shampoo and conditioner on your Bernedoodle as it can strip the natural oils from its coat and skin, leaving it dry and irritated.
Ear Cleaner and Cotton Balls
Cleaning your dog’s ears regularly is very important to prevent infection. Ear cleaners help to remove any dirt, wax, or debris that may have built up inside the ear. Cotton balls can be used to gently clean the outer part of the ear.
Towels and Grooming Apron
Towels are essential for drying your dog after a bath or swim. A grooming apron can also be very helpful in keeping you and your clothes clean while you’re grooming your dog.
Treats
Last but not least, don’t forget to have some treats on hand to reward your dog for being a good sport during the grooming process! Some dogs may see grooming time as a negative experience, but with patience and treats, you can turn it into a positive one.
Top Tips on How to Groom a Bernedoodle
Every Bernedoodle owner wants their pup to look and feel their best, and proper grooming is essential to achieving this goal. Even though grooming may sometimes feel a bit like a chore, especially when your pup isn’t cooperating, taking the time to do it right will pay off in the long run. Not only will your Bernedoodle look and smell great, but regular grooming will also help to prevent mats and tangles, keeping their coat healthy and lustrous.
To ease you into the grooming process, we’ve put together our top tips with the steps you need to include in your Bernedoodle grooming routine.
- Regular brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles from forming. It’s also important for distributing the natural oils throughout the coat, giving it a healthy shine. Use a good quality brush that’s designed for the coat type and length.
- Bathing your Bernedoodle too often can strip away the natural oils in its coat and dry out its skin, so it’s important to find a balance. We recommend bathing before trimming when they are smelly or their coat looks dirty.
- Use a mild shampoo that is designed for dogs. Avoid human shampoos as they can be too harsh and strip the natural oils from the coat, leaving it dry and brittle.
- Trim your Bernedoodle’s hair regularly to prevent mats and tangles from forming. This will also help them to stay cool in the summer months.
- Keep their nails trimmed to prevent discomfort and health problems. You can either use nail clippers or a nail grinder.
- Clean and dry their ears always after birth to prevent infection. You should also trim the hair inside their ears to prevent dirt and bacteria from buildup.
- Regular dental care is important for your Bernedoodle’s health. Brush their teeth at least once a week and consider using dental wipes or gels to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
- Inspect your Bernedoodle’s coat and skin regularly for any signs of irritation, redness, or infection. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian right away.
Frequently Asked Question
How soon should you begin grooming a Bernedoodle puppy?
Training and getting your puppy accustomed to the process early on is important. You can start as early as eight weeks old, beginning with just a few minutes at a time and gradually increasing the length of time as they get older. Begin by brushing their coat with a soft brush and then move on to nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing when they are a bit older. It’s also important to get them used to being brushed and groomed all over their body, so they are comfortable with the grooming process.
Puppies are very impressionable, and the earlier you start, the better. They will quickly learn that grooming is a normal part of life and something that they need to cooperate with. If you wait until they are older, getting them used to the process will be much harder. Make the grooming a positive experience by using treats and praise.
Is summer better for shaving your Bernedoodle?
Some people choose to shave their Bernedoodles in the summer to help them stay cool, but it’s not necessary. If you do decide to shave them, make sure not to cut the hair too short, as it can lead to sunburn and skin irritation. It’s also important to use a good quality dog shave gel or cream to avoid razor burn.
If you’re not comfortable shaving your Bernedoodle yourself, you can always take them to a professional groomer.
How short can you cut a Bernedoodle’s hair?
It depends on the individual dog’s hair type and how they react to being shaved. Some Bernedoodles have very fine, silky hair that can be cut short without any problems. Others have coarser hair that may become irritated if cut too short. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and not shave their hair too short. If you’re not sure, it’s best to take them to a professional groomer.
How much does it cost to groom a Bernedoodle?
The cost of grooming a Bernedoodle will vary depending on the length of their hair, how often they need to be groomed, and where they live. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay $50-$100 for a professional grooming session. When grooming at home, you’ll need to factor in the cost of supplies such as shampoo, conditioner, brushes, and nail clippers.
We advise against purchasing the cheapest item on the market and instead focus on finding good quality products that will last. For example, investing in a good pair of dog nail clippers will save you money in the long run, as they will last much longer than a cheap pair. They are comfortable win-win for both you and your dog.
Final thoughts
Grooming your Bernedoodle is a big part of being a responsible owner. It is a time you share with your dog that helps build a bond between you. It also keeps them healthy and looking their best. We have shared some grooming tips and haircut ideas to get you started. Now it’s time for you to put them into practice!
With the proper supplies and some patience, grooming your Bernedoodle at home is not only possible, but it can also be enjoyable. Just remember to take your time, be gentle, and use lots of treats!
