How to Groom Your Bernedoodle

Feb 27, 2025

Bernedoodles, with their adorable teddy bear faces and playful personalities, have become a beloved breed. But that gorgeous coat? It requires some TLC! Whether your Bernedoodle sports wavy locks or a tighter curl, understanding their grooming needs is essential for their comfort and your sanity. Let’s dive into the world of Bernedoodle grooming!

Understanding Bernedoodle Coats: A Mixed Bag

Bernedoodles inherit coat characteristics from both their Bernese Mountain Dog and Poo

Tri-Color standard bernedoodle puppy

dle parents, leading to a variety of textures:

  • Wavy/Fleece Coat: This is the most common type, offering a soft, slightly wavy texture. It’s often low-shedding but still requires regular maintenance.
  • Curly/Wool Coat: This coat is denser and curlier, resembling a Poodle’s. It’s considered the most hypoallergenic but can be prone to matting.
  • Straight Coat/Shedding Coat: While less common, some Bernedoodles inherit a straight coat that sheds more like a Bernese Mountain Dog. These dogs will require more frequent brushing to manage shedding.
Grooming Needs by Age:
  • Puppy (8 weeks – 6 months):
    • Introduce grooming early! Gentle brushing sessions daily help them get used to the process.
    • Focus on desensitizing them to nail trims, ear cleaning, and baths.
    • Use a soft slicker brush and a puppy shampoo.
    • Short, positive grooming experiences are key.
  • Adolescent (6 months – 18 months):
    • This is when their adult coat starts to come in, often leading to increased matting.
    • Regular brushing (several times a week) becomes crucial.
    • Start professional grooming appointments to establish a routine.
    • Pay close attention to areas prone to matting, like behind the ears, armpits, and legs.
  • Adult (18 months+):
    • Maintain a consistent grooming schedule based on their coat type.
    • Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is generally recommended.
    • Regular at-home maintenance between professional visits is essential.
Essential Bernedoodle Grooming Tips:
  1. Brushing is Key:
    • Use a slicker brush and a metal comb to remove loose fur and prevent mats.
    • Brush thoroughly, reaching down to the skin. See our favorite here!
    • Pay extra attention to areas prone to matting.
  2. Bathing:
    • Bathe your Bernedoodle only when necessary (every 4-8 weeks).
    • Use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to avoid drying out their skin. See our favorite here!
    • Thoroughly dry their coat to prevent mats.
  3. Nail Trimming:
    • Trim nails regularly to prevent discomfort and potential injuries.
    • Use dog nail clippers or a grinder.
    • If you’re unsure, ask your vet or groomer for a demonstration.
  4. Ear Cleaning:
    • Bernedoodles with floppy ears are prone to ear infections.
    • Clean their ears weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner.
    • Check for redness, discharge, or odor.
  5. Professional Grooming:
    • Schedule regular appointments with a professional groomer.
    • They can provide haircuts, nail trims, and thorough baths.
    • Find a groomer that has experience with doodle breeds.
  6. Mat Prevention:
    • Keep hair shorter in problem areas.
    • Use a detangling spray.
    • Check your dog daily for mats.
  7. Eye Maintenance:
    • Trim the hair around the eyes to prevent irritation.
    • Wipe away any eye discharge with a damp cloth.

Grooming Tools You’ll Need:
Consistency is Crucial:

Establishing a consistent grooming routine from a young age will make the process easier for both you and your Bernedoodle. We start the process here with our Bernedoodle puppies and encourage our puppy families to follow this guide. By understanding your Bernedoodle’s coat type and age-related needs, you’ll ensure your furry friend maintains that healthy, happy look they started with.

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