If you’ve ever met a Bernedoodle, you know they’re equal parts teddy bear and goofball. With the loyalty of a Bernese Mountain Dog and the smarts of a Poodle, they’re basically the whole package. Oh, and that coat? Gorgeous but demanding.
This isn’t a wash-and-go breed. Regular grooming keeps their skin healthy, their fur mat-free, and your furniture a little less fuzzy. Skipping sessions can mean tangles, skin issues, or even a pup that smells less than snuggle-worthy. Whether you’ve got a standard, mini, or toy size, the process matters.
So grab your brushes, roll up your sleeves, and let’s turn your Bernedoodle’s grooming routine into the best part of their day.
Understanding the Bernedoodle Coat
One of the first things Bernedoodle owners notice is how much their dog’s coat can vary. Some pups look like fluffy teddy bears with tight curls, while others carry sleek waves or straighter fur. These differences aren’t just about appearance.
They determine how often you’ll need to brush, when professional grooming becomes essential, and how much fur ends up on your clothes or couch. Knowing your Bernedoodle’s coat type is the foundation of an effective grooming routine.
1. Wavy (Fleece) Coat
The wavy Bernedoodle coat is often called the “sweet spot” between the two parent breeds. It combines the Bernese Mountain Dog’s straighter hair with the Poodle’s gentle curls, creating waves that feel silky to the touch. These coats shed lightly and are easier to manage than tighter curls, but they can still develop tangles if brushing is skipped.
Behind the ears and along the armpits are common trouble spots where mats sneak in, especially if your pup loves rolling in grass. Most F1 and F2 Bernedoodles carry this coat, though genetics can surprise you.
2. Straight Coat
Less common but striking, the straight Bernedoodle coat looks more like the Bernese side of the family. This type is often flatter, giving dogs a more shaggy, teddy-bear look. While straighter coats may not trap mats as tightly as curls, they shed more and still demand a regular brushing routine.
Loose fur can quickly build up around the tail or under the legs, leaving pet owners with more vacuuming and grooming tasks. For families who love the Bernese look but want the personality of a doodle, this coat type is a fun compromise.
3. Curly (Wool) Coat
Curly-coated Bernedoodle takes after its Poodle parent. Tight curls wrap close to the skin, offering one of the most hypoallergenic options among dog breeds. Without frequent brushing and professional grooming sessions, curls around the ears, tail, and underbelly can harden into stubborn mats.
The payoff is worth it, though a curly-coated Bernedoodle rarely sheds, leaving your home much cleaner. Consider this coat as the “luxury fabric” of doodle grooming, gorgeous but high maintenance.
Essential Bernedoodle Grooming Tools
A Bernedoodle coat can be curly, wavy, or straight, but one thing stays the same: it needs the right tools. Without them, brushing becomes a battle, mats settle in fast, and the coat loses its natural shine. Here’s a smart kit that helps pet parents stay on top of grooming at home, while still supporting those professional grooming sessions every few months.
Brushes and Combs
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Slicker Brush: Handles tangles and removes loose fur from curly and wavy coats.
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Pin Brush: Works best on longer coats and curly-coated doodles that need frequent brushing.
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Bristle Brush: Suits straighter coats, spreading natural oils and keeping the coat soft.
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Metal Comb: Runs through tricky spots like behind the ears, underarms, and tails where mats form.
Cutting and Trimming Tools
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Dog-Safe Scissors and Clippers: Help trim paw hair and tidy up between full grooming sessions.
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Thinning Shears: Keep Bernedoodle haircuts blended and light instead of bulky.
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De-Matting Tool: Cuts through stubborn knots that regular brushing can’t handle.
Care Essentials
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Nail Trimmers or Grinders: Stop nails from growing too long and causing pain.
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Dog Shampoo and Conditioner: Cleans without stripping away natural oils, leaving a healthy coat.
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Detangler Spray: Makes brushing smoother and less stressful for both dog and owner.
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Pogi’s Dog Grooming Wipes: Quick touch-ups between baths to freshen the coat and paws.
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Ear Cleaning Solution with Cotton Rounds: Keeps ears clear of wax and debris, lowering infection risks.
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Toothbrush with Canine Toothpaste: Protects dental health and keeps breath fresh.
Step-by-Step Routine for Bernedoodle Grooming
A calm setup makes bernedoodle grooming sessions easy. Keep the mood light, reward with small treats, and let your Bernedoodle hear running water and nail clipping sounds at a gentle pace. The goal is a relaxed dog and a coat that stays healthy.
1. Brush the coat to prevent mats
Brushing comes first because a smooth surface protects the skin during the rest of the grooming process. Use a slicker brush to lift loose fur and ease out light tangles. Move in short strokes that follow the lay of the dog’s coat so you do not pull at the skin or strip natural oils.
Switch to a metal comb for a deeper pass. Slide the comb through common trouble areas behind the ears, underarms, tail, and the back of the legs. If the comb snags, pause and tease the knot apart with gentle brushing rather than forcing it.
Work by sections so nothing hides. Wavy coats usually need brushing three to four times each week. Curly coats do best with daily brushing. Always brush before a bath so existing knots do not tighten. This routine keeps the coat soft, helps prevent mats, and sets up every wash and trim for success.
2. Bathe With Gentle, Breed-Safe Shampoo
Once the coat is free of tangles, it’s time for a bath. Most Bernedoodle owners know this isn’t always their dog’s favorite moment, so set the stage with calm energy and a steady routine. A slip-free mat in the tub and a few rewards nearby can make a big difference.
Use lukewarm water to soak the coat completely before adding shampoo. Pick a mild, moisturizing formula made for dogs with sensitive skin, since harsh products can strip natural oils and cause irritation. Work the lather from the neck down toward the tail, massaging it into the coat without getting near the eyes or inside the ears.
Rinse until the water runs clear. Any leftover residue can lead to itching or dull fur. For dogs with curly and wavy coats, a light conditioner can help reduce tangles and keep the coat soft between grooming sessions.
3. Use Pogi’s Dog Grooming Wipes Between Baths
Bathing too often can dry out a Bernedoodle’s coat, but skipping cleanup altogether leaves behind dirt and allergens. Wipes solve that problem, giving you a simple way to keep things tidy without reaching for the shampoo every time.
After outdoor play or mealtime, run a wipe over the paws, belly, underarms, and even around the face to clear away dust, dander, and odors. Pogi’s Dog Grooming Wipes contain aloe vera, vitamin E, and Hawaiian Awapuhi, which refresh the coat while supporting skin health.
Because they’re hypoallergenic and eco-friendly, you can use them daily on any coat type. Regular wipe-downs stretch the time between full baths and keep your dog comfortable, soft, and ready for hugs. Try Pogi’s Dog Grooming Wipes to make in-between care effortless.
4. Trim the Coat as Needed
A fluffy Bernedoodle looks adorable, but leave the coat unchecked and it quickly crosses the line from “teddy bear” to “tangled mess.” That’s where trimming steps in. Areas like the face, paws, and sanitary zones grow faster than the rest, so they need extra attention.
Use thinning shears or clippers suited to your dog’s coat type. If you’re new to grooming, a professional appointment every six to eight weeks keeps the coat under control and your stress levels low.
Haircuts are more than style choices; they also fit your lifestyle and climate. Shorter trims save time for busy pet parents, while longer cuts work well in colder weather. Many Bernedoodle owners switch between styles to match the season.
Popular Bernedoodle Haircuts
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Winter Cut: Extra length left on the coat for added warmth, though it means brushing often to stop tangles from forming.
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Summer Cut: A lighter trim that helps your dog stay cool and makes daily upkeep easier during hot months.
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Poodle Cut: A stylish option that mirrors the traditional Poodle look, best suited for owners ready to keep up with regular grooming.
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Teddy Bear Cut: Gives a soft, rounded shape that highlights the doodle’s playful face, especially flattering on curly and wavy coats.
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Kennel Cut: Cropped down close for low fuss, often chosen by busy owners who want to minimize coat care.
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Lamb Cut: Even hair length across the body with neatly shaved feet, tail, and face for a balanced, tidy appearance.
Never cut into mats without detangling first, as this can cause painful nicks and uneven patches. A careful trim always beats a rushed shortcut.
5. Clean the Ears Gently
Coats may get most of the grooming attention, but ears deserve their own care. Bernedoodles have soft, floppy ears that can trap moisture, which is why they need regular cleaning to stay healthy.
Use a vet-recommended ear solution along with a cotton ball. Dampen it slightly and wipe the folds you can see, focusing on the outer ear canal. Keep the cleaning shallow. Never insert anything deep inside. The goal is to remove buildup without irritating sensitive tissue.
A quick ear check during grooming sessions helps prevent problems before they start. Clean ears reduce odor, keep infections at bay, and ensure your Bernedoodle feels comfortable day to day.
6. Brush the Teeth Weekly
Dental care is one of the most overlooked parts of grooming. A Bernedoodle’s smile can be as charming as its fluffy coat, but behind those teeth, serious problems can build up if dental care is ignored. Periodontal disease affects up to 90% of dogs by age three, starting with plaque that hardens into tartar and progressing to gum inflammation, infection, and bone loss if ignored.
Use a canine toothbrush paired with enzymatic dog toothpaste. Work in gentle circles along the outer surfaces of the teeth, paying close attention to the gumline. If your Bernedoodle hasn’t experienced tooth brushing before, begin slowly with short sessions and reward them afterward to build trust.
Weekly brushing should be the baseline, but dental chews and water additives can help keep your dog’s mouth fresher between cleanings. A few minutes of care each week prevents pain later and saves you from costly vet treatments.
7. Trim the Nails Carefully
Long nails can turn every step into discomfort, and for a playful Bernedoodle, that means less running, jumping, and enjoying life. Regular nail care keeps paws healthy and prevents posture issues that come with overgrown nails.
Plan to trim every 3 to 4 weeks, though dogs who walk often on hard surfaces may naturally wear them down a bit faster. Use clippers for quick trims, or switch to a grinder if your dog prefers smoother edges and less pressure.
Always watch for the quick, the sensitive pink line running inside light-colored nails. Cutting into it can cause pain and bleeding. If you’re uncertain, trim small amounts once a week instead of taking too much off at once.
8. Dry and Finish
Freshly bathed Bernedoodles look like walking sponges, holding water in every layer of their coat. Leaving them damp is more than uncomfortable; it can lead to skin problems that thrive in trapped moisture.
Begin by pressing a towel firmly against the coat rather than rubbing, which can cause tangles. After most of the water is out, bring in a pet dryer on the lowest, coolest setting. Work slowly through the coat, lifting sections so air circulates all the way to the skin.
When the coat feels dry, run a brush through once more. This final sweep adds shape, smooths stray hairs, and reveals the full shine of a healthy coat. To finish, a light spritz of leave-in conditioner or deodorizing spray keeps your Bernedoodle smelling fresh and looking polished until the next grooming session.
Bernedoodle Grooming Frequency Recommendations by Age & Coat Type
Start early with short, positive experiences. Use grooming wipes, light brushing, and gentle nail trims to help them get used to the process. Building comfort at this stage makes adult grooming much easier.
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Curly Coats: Daily brushing is a must to prevent mats. Plan on bathing every 3 to 4 weeks, but active dogs that love mud or grass may need more frequent washes. Curly coats also benefit from regular detangling sprays between sessions.
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Wavy Coats: Brushing every other day is usually enough to keep waves soft and mat-free. Bathe every 4 to 6 weeks, adjusting based on activity level and lifestyle.
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Straight Coats: Twice-a-week brushing helps manage shedding and keeps natural oils balanced. Bathe every 6 to 8 weeks to avoid drying out the coat.
Regardless of coat type, schedule a professional bernedoodle grooming session every six to eight weeks for trimming, deep cleaning, and overall coat maintenance.
Signs Your Bernedoodle Needs Grooming
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Clumps of tangled hair forming under the belly, around the legs, or near the ears
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A musty smell that lingers even when your dog hasn’t been outdoors
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Persistent scratching or irritated patches of skin
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Nails tapping loudly on floors, making walking awkward or uncomfortable
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Ears showing dirt, redness, or producing an unpleasant odor
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Breath that smells sour or foul despite chew toys or treats
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Tear stains, watery eyes, or fur blocking vision around the face
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The coat is losing its natural shine and feeling coarse to the touch
Keep Your Bernedoodle Happy, Clean, and Comfortable
Grooming isn’t just about good looks; it’s what keeps your Bernedoodle comfortable, healthy, and ready for every cuddle. A few minutes with the right tools and habits saves you from battling mats, odors, or itchy skin later. And the best part? Grooming doubles as bonding time, giving you a chance to connect while keeping that fluffy coat in top shape.
For the in-between moments when a full bath isn’t on the schedule, reach for Pogi’s Dog Grooming Wipes. They’re eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and gentle enough for daily use, making them perfect for muddy paws, quick face touch-ups, or a post-park refresh.
Don’t let grooming feel like a chore. Keep it simple, keep it consistent, and your Bernedoodle will reward you with comfort, confidence, and a whole lot of tail wags. Visit pogis.com for products that make clean-ups easy and keep your dog looking and feeling their best.
FAQs
Can you groom a Bernedoodle yourself?
Yes, you can groom a Bernedoodle at home if you have patience, the right grooming tools, and a consistent routine. Regular brushing with a slicker brush and pin brush helps manage curly and wavy coats, while a metal comb is useful for checking for stubborn mats.
Many Bernedoodle owners handle basic tasks like trimming the dog's nails, ear cleaning, and brushing their dog’s coat. Still, professional grooming sessions every 6–8 weeks are recommended to keep the coat healthy, prevent mats, and manage popular Bernedoodle haircuts.
How often do Bernedoodles need to be groomed?
The frequency of grooming depends on your Bernedoodle’s coat type and lifestyle. Curly-coated Bernedoodles need daily brushing and more frequent baths to prevent mats, while wavy-coated dogs usually need brushing every other day.
Straight coats shed more and require weekly brushing. Across all types, regular professional grooming sessions are important. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks helps maintain a healthy coat. A balanced diet, frequent brushing, and gentle grooming tools all contribute to keeping your Bernedoodle happy and comfortable.
Should Bernedoodles get haircuts?
Yes, Bernedoodles benefit from regular haircuts to manage coat length and prevent tangles. Many pet owners choose styles like the teddy bear cut, poodle cut, or lamb cut, depending on their Bernedoodle’s coat type and lifestyle.
Shorter trims reduce grooming sessions at home, especially for curly and wavy coats prone to mats. Regular at-home grooming between professional grooming sessions keeps the coat soft and prevents skin issues.
How to trim a Bernedoodle's face?
Trimming a Bernedoodle’s face requires care and the right grooming process. Use thinning shears or dog-safe scissors to gently shape the hair around the eyes and muzzle, making sure not to cut too close to the skin.
For curly-coated doodles, regular brushing before trimming helps prevent mats and makes the process smoother. Some Bernedoodle owners use a grooming table for stability. If your dog is restless, consider visiting a professional groomer who can safely trim the face and maintain a clean, healthy coat.
