Grooming Your Bernedoodle

Grooming Your Bernedoodle

Bernedoodles are a delightful blend of Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle—two breeds with very different coat types. This mix can result in a variety of coat textures, each with its own grooming needs. Understanding your Bernedoodle’s coat type is the first step to keeping their coat healthy and beautiful.

The Three Bernedoodle Coat Types

1. Wavy (Fleece) Coat

This coat is a soft, low-shedding blend of the Bernese Mountain Dog’s straight coat and the Poodle’s curls. Wavy coats are typically low-maintenance compared to curlier types and are less prone to matting.F1 and F2 Bernedoodles often have wavy coats, though variation is always possible.

2. Straight Coat

Straight-coated Bernedoodles have thick, long hair, especially around the body and face. This coat type resembles the Bernese Mountain Dog more and may be seen in F1b and multigenerational Bernedoodles. While relatively easy to care for, it does require consistent brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Some straight coats are longer; others may inherit a shorter coat from the Poodle side.

3. Curly (Wool) Coat

This is the highest-maintenance coat type—but also the most hypoallergenic. Curly-coated Bernedoodles rarely shed, but they require frequent grooming to avoid severe matting. The tightly curled hair comes from the Poodle lineage and is a great option for families with allergies.

Grooming Basics

Once you’ve identified your puppy’s coat type, you can create a grooming routine that keeps their coat in top shape.

A scruffy, shaggy Bernedoodle can be adorable—but a neglected coat is prone to matting, which can cause discomfort or even skin sores. Mats that form close to the skin are very difficult to comb out and often require shaving.

Preventing Mats with Regular Brushing

Grooming doesn’t have to be complicated! With just 10–15 minutes of brushing 3–4 times a week, you can keep your puppy’s coat healthy and tangle-free.

Be sure to:

• Use a comb that reaches the base of the hair shaft, right next to the skin.

• Comb up and away from the skin to avoid missing hidden mats.

• Start from the feet and work your way up the legs, then brush the body from back to front.

• Comb the hair on the head forward.

• Praise your puppy during calm moments—this helps them associate grooming with positive attention.

Some puppies love being brushed; others resist it at first. Be patient. Avoid turning grooming into a struggle. Keep sessions short and encouraging until it becomes a routine you both enjoy.

Professional Grooming

Plan to visit a professional groomer every 6–8 weeks. With regular home brushing and professional grooming, your Bernedoodle will look great and feel great too.

Choosing a Haircut

If you're unsure what haircut you want, browse Instagram or Facebook pages from breeders or grooming salons. When you find a look you love, screenshot it and show it to your groomer. This helps avoid miscommunication.

• In hot weather, a shorter cut can keep your puppy cooler and reduce grooming time.

• The facial hair—mustache and eyebrows—is known as "furnishings." Not all doodles have furnishings, so if you like the look, ask your groomer to trim them (not shave them). Most owners prefer leaving these longer for that classic doodle charm.

Not all groomers are the same. Some may default to cutting more than you expect. Always bring photos and clearly explain your preferences.

Extra Tips for a Smooth Grooming Experience

• Get your puppy used to having their paws touched. Gently rub between their toes daily—this will help when it’s time to trim nails or tidy up the feet.

• A calm, happy puppy at the groomer means a better experience for everyone.

• Pay attention to how your dog behaves when picked up from the groomer. If your puppy seems fearful or stressed, consider finding someone more compassionate.

A good groomer will partner with you, guiding you as your puppy grows. Grooming should be a positive, ongoing part of your dog’s care—not just for looks, but for health and comfort too.