If you’ve ever seen a Bernedoodle strut down the street with a shiny, fluffy coat, you know just how eye-catching these dogs can be. But behind every beautiful Bernedoodle is a dedicated grooming routine. Owners often ask us at Love Berners about Bernedoodle grooming and wonder just how much effort it takes to keep these doodles looking and feeling their best.
The truth is, Bernedoodles are not a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Their gorgeous coats, whether wavy, curly, or somewhere in between, require regular care to prevent mats, maintain comfort, and support overall health. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about how to groom a Bernedoodle, from brushing basics to professional grooming schedules.
Why Bernedoodle Grooming Is So Important
Grooming isn’t just about looks. It plays a vital role in your Bernedoodle’s health and happiness. Here’s why it matters:
- Prevents matting: Bernedoodle coats are prone to tangles. Mats can be painful, trap dirt, and even cause skin infections.
- Skin health: Regular brushing spreads natural oils that keep skin healthy and coats shiny.
- Temperature regulation: Keeping the coat trimmed helps dogs stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
- Bonding time: Grooming builds trust and strengthens the bond between you and your pup.
In short, Bernedoodle grooming is about keeping your dog comfortable, healthy, and confident.
Understanding the Bernedoodle Coat
To understand how to groom a Bernedoodle, you first need to know what type of coat your doodle has. Bernedoodles can have:
- Wavy coats (most common): A mix of Bernese straight fur and Poodle curls, usually low-shedding but prone to tangles.
- Curly coats: More like the Poodle, very low-shedding and great for allergy-sensitive families, but higher grooming needs.
- Straighter coats: Less common but possible, easier to brush but may shed more like a Bernese.
Each coat type has its own needs, but all Bernedoodles require regular grooming.
How to Groom a Bernedoodle at Home
How do I groom a Bernedoodle between professional sessions? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Brushing
- Frequency: 3–4 times a week (daily is ideal for curly coats).
- Tools: A slicker brush for detangling, and a metal comb for finishing.
- Technique: Brush in sections, starting at the bottom and working upward to ensure you reach the undercoat. Always check behind ears, under armpits, and around the tail where mats form quickly.
2. Bathing
- Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks or when your pup is dirty.
- Products: Use a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner; avoid human productst that can irritate skin.
- Tip: Always brush before a bath. Water can tighten mats, making them nearly impossible to remove.
3. Drying
- Use a high-velocity dog dryer if possible, brushing while you dry to prevent tangles. Air-drying often leads to mats.
4. Nail Trimming
- Frequency: Every 3–4 weeks.
- Why: Overgrown nails can cause pain and posture problems.
5. Ear Care
- Bernedoodles have floppy ears, so check weekly for wax or redness. Clean with a vet-approved solution.
6. Teeth Brushing
- Brushing a few times a week prevents tartar buildup and supports overall health.
By building these habits, grooming becomes second nature, and your Bernedoodle will stay clean and comfortable between professional visits.
Professional Bernedoodle Grooming
Even the most dedicated pet parents need help. Professional grooming is essential for Bernedoodles because of their coat texture and growth.
- Frequency: Every 6–8 weeks.
- Services: Full bath, blow-dry, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning, and sometimes anal gland expression.
- Styles: Many families choose the “teddy bear cut,” which keeps the coat fluffy and manageable. Others opt for a shorter, more practical cut during summer.
Introducing puppies to professional grooming early makes a huge difference. At Love Berners, we expose our puppies to gentle brushing and handling so they’re confident when they visit the groomer.
How Grooming Supports Longevity
Believe it or not, Bernedoodle grooming even plays a role in how long your doodle lives. Healthy coats reduce stress and discomfort, while good hygiene prevents infections. Grooming also helps owners notice changes like lumps, hot spots, or ear infections early, all of which can affect the Bernedoodle’s quality of life if left untreated.
Since our puppies at Love Berners are raised with enrichment and early grooming exposure, they adapt quickly to this lifelong care. A Bernedoodle from an ethical breeder who has health guarantees has the advantage of starting life with the training and confidence needed for stress-free grooming.
Common Grooming Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long between brushes — mats can form in just a few days.
- Skipping the groomer — professional cuts are essential every few months.
- Bathing without brushing — this makes tangles worse.
- Using human products — they can dry out and irritate a dog’s skin.
- Neglecting nails and ears — these areas are easy to overlook but critical for comfort.
Grooming for Different Life Stages
Puppy Stage: Short, gentle brushing sessions a few times a week. Positive experiences now prevent fear later.
Adult Stage: Full grooming routine every week at home plus professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.
Senior Stage: Shorter grooming sessions with softer brushes, orthopedic mats at the groomer, and extra care for sensitive joints.
Final Thoughts: Bernedoodle Grooming
When families ask us about Bernedoodle grooming, we remind them that while it is a commitment, it’s also an investment in your doodle’s health and happiness. With the right routine, grooming becomes a joyful bonding experience rather than a chore.
If you’re wondering how to groom a Bernedoodle, start with regular brushing at home, add in professional grooming every 6–8 weeks, and keep up with nails, ears, and teeth. Your doodle will look fabulous, feel comfortable, and stay healthier for years to come.
At Love Berners, we believe in raising puppies with confidence and care. That means our Bernedoodles don’t just come with health testing and guarantees, they also come prepared for a lifetime of positive grooming experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a Bernedoodle be groomed?
Brush several times a week and schedule professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.
What is the best haircut for Bernedoodles?
The “teddy bear cut” is popular for its cute, fluffy look, but shorter trims can be easier to maintain.
Can I groom my Bernedoodle at home?
Yes! With the right tools and patience, you can handle brushing, baths, nails, and even light trims at home.
Do Bernedoodles shed?
Shedding depends on coat type. Curly coats shed very little but require more brushing to avoid mats.
Why is early grooming important?
Introducing puppies to brushing and handling early builds confidence and reduces stress during lifelong grooming.
