Bernedoodles are beautiful dogs, but their striking coat will require a bit of maintenance to keep them clean and comfortable. Here are some dog grooming tips to keep your furry friend looking their best!
Bernedoodle Coats
Since bernedoodles are a mix of the Bernese mountain dog and the poodle, they can come in various coat types. Depending on what coat your dog has means they will have different needs that will impact their grooming requirements. The different coats include:
- Wavy coats (fleece) – this coat is considered a 50/50 combination of the poodle’s curly coat and the Bernese’s straight coat. A wavy-haired bernedoodle will be smooth and soft and won’t produce as much dander or shed as much as a straight coat. It will, however, require a bit more regular grooming.
- Straight coats – this is characteristic of the Bernese mountain dog parent. This coat is typically long and thick, and while referred to as straight, it may have a slight wave to it.
- Curly coats (wool) – this is characteristic of a poodle parent. Curly coats produce even less dander than wavy coats and are popular for those with allergies since they are considered to be hypoallergenic. However, this coat does require the most grooming (especially daily brushing) to prevent mats and tangles.
The Bernedoodle Dog Grooming Basics
Proper dog grooming for your bernedoodle will keep them happy and healthy! So it’s important to know the basics. As mentioned above, the major thing that will factor into your bernedoodle’s grooming needs and time requirements is the type of coat your pup has. So the first dog grooming basic: know your pup’s coat before you begin.
Brushing is the number one thing you need to be doing often to keep your pup’s coat in good condition. Brushing your bernedoodle will keep its fur healthy, shiny, and free of tangles. Just make sure you’re using the right brush for your bernedoodle’s coat. At a minimum, you need to be brushing two times a week. If your pup has a curly or wavy coat, consider brushing your dog more often. As you brush, make sure you hit all areas of your bernedoodle’s coat. Get their legs, head, tail, back, and stomach. If you encounter tangles or mats, go slowly to get them out so that you don’t hurt your dog.
Professional grooming appointments are important to get their hair cut and nails trimmed the proper way, but more on that a little later. In between grooming appointments, your pup may need a bath if they get dirty or smelly. Just be careful not to over-bathe. Too many baths can lead to dry, itchy, and uncomfortable skin, so only bathe your dog when you can smell/see the dirt.
Preparing Pups for Grooming
Getting your puppy spiffed up is fun, but keep in mind they probably aren’t used to running water, the sensation of brushing, or their nails being clipped. To prepare your puppy for a positive grooming experience, here are some tips to help you:
- Before you dive right into brushing, let your puppy sniff the brush to become familiar with it. Just be mindful that you don’t treat it like a toy. Gently brush your puppy’s fur in short strokes until it gets used to the sensation, praising throughout and rewarding him with a treat afterward for good behavior.
- To keep your puppy from scaring during bath time, pre-fill the tub with lukewarm water before bringing it into the bathroom. Be gentle as you soak and wash her, giving praise during the process. If they’re visibly afraid, remove them and try again later. Avoid scolding as it can worsen their fear and lead to anxiety later on.
- While you may not be the one to clip your dog’s nails, it’s a good idea to prepare your puppy for the process. Handle their paws beforehand, one at a time, increasing the amount of time each day.
Professional Grooming
As we mentioned previously, professional dog grooming will take care of haircuts and nail clips to keep your bernedoodle looking beautiful. Once your pup has been fully vaccinated, it’s a good idea to book them for a grooming. You don’t have to get them fully groomed now, but getting them used to the process early will help them acclimate to it without fear.
Depending on the haircut you want for your bernedoodle, you can take them every six to eight weeks to get refreshed or every three months. Just remember that if you prefer a longer coat, your upkeep is going to be much greater. If you’re unsure what cut you want, your groomer can suggest different options for you and your pup.
Time to Add a New Member to the Family
We hope these dog grooming tips will help you keep your bernedoodle in tip-top shape!
If you’re considering adding a bernedoodle to your family, Alpine Bernedoodles is ready to help. We are located in the beautiful town of Montrose, Colorado, and it is our passion to produce exceptional quality bernedoodles. Our bernedoodles are bred with responsibility and integrity to be cherished family companions. Every puppy is raised with attention to physical and mental health and nurtured with love and care. Thank you for your interest in our puppies!
