If you share your home with a majestic Bernese Mountain Dog, you already know the truth: these gentle giants are absolute love bugs wrapped in gorgeous tri-colored fur. But here’s what the puppy brochures don’t always mention—they drool. A lot. Like, a lot a lot. 🐾
That’s where this Bernese Mountain Dog DIY: How to Make a Custom Drool Towel (You’ll Need It) guide comes in! Instead of constantly wiping your floors, furniture, and let’s be honest, your guests, why not create a stylish, functional drool towel that your furry family member can wear? It’s easier than you think, costs less than store-bought options, and you can customize it to match your pup’s personality perfectly.
Whether your Berner is a drool champion or just an occasional slobber artist, this paw-some DIY project will save your sanity and keep your home cleaner. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of creating something special for your four-legged best friend!
Key Takeaways
- Custom drool towels are essential for Bernese Mountain Dog owners dealing with excessive drooling, especially during eating, drinking, and hot weather
- DIY drool towels cost 50-70% less than store-bought versions and can be personalized with your dog’s name, favorite colors, and patterns
- The basic project requires minimal sewing skills and takes just 1-2 hours to complete with simple materials like absorbent fabric, snap fasteners, and basic sewing supplies
- Proper fabric selection is critical—microfiber terry cloth and cotton blends offer the best absorption while remaining comfortable for your Berner
- Multiple towels are recommended so you always have a clean one ready while others are in the wash
Why Your Bernese Mountain Dog Needs a Custom Drool Towel
Let’s talk about the elephant—or rather, the drool puddle—in the room. Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to drooling due to their loose jowls and facial structure[1]. This isn’t a flaw; it’s just part of their charm! But that doesn’t mean you need to live in a perpetually damp house.
The Drool Reality Check
Berners drool more when they’re:
- Excited about dinner, walks, or visitors
- Hot (remember, they’re bred for Swiss mountain weather, not summer heat)
- Drinking water (cue the waterfall effect)
- Anticipating treats (those puppy dog eyes come with a side of slobber)
- Teething as puppies or experiencing dental issues
A custom drool towel acts like a fashionable bib that catches drool before it hits your floors, furniture, or that new outfit you just put on. Think of it as a strategic defense system against slobber chaos!
Why DIY Beats Store-Bought
Store-bought drool bibs can run anywhere from $15 to $40 each. When you make your own, you’re looking at about $5-10 per towel, and you can create multiple versions for different occasions. Plus, you get to:
✨ Choose fabrics that match your home décor
✨ Add your dog’s name or fun embroidery
✨ Select the perfect size for your specific Berner
✨ Create seasonal versions (hello, holiday patterns!)
✨ Make extras for Berner-loving friends
Materials You’ll Need for This Bernese Mountain Dog DIY: How to Make a Custom Drool Towel (You’ll Need It)
Before diving into this tail-wagging project, gather your supplies. The good news? You probably have some of these items already, and the rest are easy to find at any craft store or online.
Essential Materials Checklist
| Material | Quantity | Purpose | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absorbent terry cloth or microfiber | 1/2 yard | Main drool-catching layer | Fabric stores, online |
| Cotton fabric (decorative) | 1/2 yard | Outer decorative layer | Craft stores, Etsy |
| Snap fasteners or Velcro | 2-3 sets | Secure around neck | Craft stores |
| Thread | 1 spool | Coordinating color | Any craft store |
| Fabric scissors | 1 pair | Cutting fabric | Craft stores |
| Measuring tape | 1 | Measuring your dog | Dollar stores |
| Pins | 10-15 | Holding fabric together | Craft stores |
| Iron-on interfacing (optional) | 1/4 yard | Added stability | Fabric stores |
Pro Tip: Fabric Selection Matters! 💡
Not all fabrics are created equal when it comes to drool management. Here’s what works best:
Best Choices:
- Microfiber terry cloth: Super absorbent and dries quickly
- Bamboo terry cloth: Naturally antimicrobial and soft
- Cotton flannel: Cozy and absorbent for cooler weather
- Cotton-polyester blends: Durable and easy to wash
Avoid:
- Silk or satin (zero absorption, just slides around)
- Heavy canvas (too stiff and uncomfortable)
- Synthetic materials that don’t breathe
Remember, your Berner will be wearing this regularly, so comfort is key! Choose fabrics that are soft against their neck and won’t cause irritation[2].
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Custom Drool Towel
Ready to create your masterpiece? This Bernese Mountain Dog DIY: How to Make a Custom Drool Towel (You’ll Need It) tutorial breaks down every step so even sewing beginners can succeed!
Step 1: Measure Your Bernese Mountain Dog
First things first—you need accurate measurements. Grab your measuring tape and a handful of treats (bribery works!).
What to measure:
- Neck circumference: Measure around the base of your dog’s neck where a collar sits comfortably
- Chest drop: Measure from the neck down the chest to where you want the towel to end (usually 8-12 inches)
- Width: Measure across the chest at the widest point you want covered
Standard Bernese Mountain Dog measurements:
- Adult males: 20-26 inch neck circumference
- Adult females: 18-24 inch neck circumference
- Recommended towel length: 10-14 inches down the chest
Add 2-3 inches to your neck measurement for overlap and fastener placement. Trust us—you want room for adjustment!
Step 2: Create Your Pattern
Don’t panic! You don’t need fancy pattern-making skills. Here’s the simple approach:
Basic bandana-style pattern:
- Draw a large triangle or curved bib shape on paper
- The top (neck edge) should measure your dog’s neck circumference plus 3 inches
- The point should extend down to your desired chest length
- Round the bottom point for a softer look
Alternative rectangular approach:
- Create a rectangle that’s 24 inches wide by 12 inches long
- Round the corners for comfort
- This style provides more coverage for heavy droolers
Sketch it out, cut it from newspaper first, and test it on your pup before cutting your actual fabric!
Step 3: Cut Your Fabric Layers
Now for the satisfying part—cutting! You’ll need two layers for each towel.
Cutting instructions:
- Pin your pattern to the absorbent terry cloth
- Cut carefully, leaving a 1/2 inch seam allowance
- Repeat with your decorative cotton fabric
- If using interfacing, cut a third layer slightly smaller
Pro tip: Cut multiple towels at once! If you’re already set up, why not make 3-4 towels? Future you will be grateful when laundry day rolls around.
Step 4: Assemble and Sew
Here’s where your drool towel comes to life! If you’re hand-sewing, this will take longer but is totally doable. Machine sewing speeds things up considerably.
Assembly steps:
- Layer your fabrics: Place decorative fabric face-up, then terry cloth face-down on top (right sides together)
- Pin around edges: Use plenty of pins to prevent shifting
- Sew around perimeter: Leave a 3-4 inch opening on one side for turning
- Clip corners: Cut small triangles at corners to reduce bulk
- Turn right-side out: Reach through the opening and pull everything through
- Iron flat: Press the edges crisp and fold in the opening edges
- Topstitch: Sew around the entire perimeter, closing the opening
Stitching specs:
- Use a 1/2 inch seam allowance
- Backstitch at the beginning and end
- For machine sewing, use a straight stitch with medium tension
Step 5: Add Fasteners
The fastener makes or breaks your drool towel’s functionality. You want something secure but easy to use.
Snap fastener method:
- Mark placement on both ends of the neck edge
- Follow snap package instructions for installation
- Add 2-3 snaps for adjustability as your dog grows or for seasonal coat changes
Velcro method:
- Cut two 3-inch strips of Velcro
- Sew the soft (loop) side to one end
- Sew the rough (hook) side to the other end
- Make sure the Velcro overlaps by at least 2 inches when fastened
Safety note: Ensure all fasteners are securely attached. You don’t want any choking hazards if your curious Berner decides to investigate their new accessory!
Step 6: Personalize (Optional But Fun!)
This is where your creativity shines! ✨
Personalization ideas:
- Embroidery: Add your dog’s name in a contrasting thread color
- Iron-on patches: Mountains, paw prints, or Swiss flags honor the breed’s heritage
- Fabric paint: Create custom designs or funny sayings like “Drool Happens”
- Appliqué: Sew on fabric shapes for dimension
One Berner owner we know created a whole collection with different sayings: “Drool is Cool,” “Slobber Squad,” and “I Make Drool Look Good.” Her guests always get a laugh!
Tips for Success with Your Bernese Mountain Dog DIY: How to Make a Custom Drool Towel (You’ll Need It)
Want your drool towels to last through countless washes and drool sessions? Follow these pro tips from experienced Berner parents:
Fabric Care and Maintenance
Washing instructions:
- Pre-wash all fabrics before sewing to prevent shrinkage
- Wash finished towels in cold or warm water
- Use pet-safe, fragrance-free detergent
- Avoid fabric softener (reduces absorbency)
- Tumble dry on low or line dry
How many towels do you need?
Most Berner owners find that 4-6 towels is the sweet spot. This gives you:
- One on the dog
- One in the wash
- One drying
- 1-3 backups for emergencies or outfit changes
Think of it like having multiple sets of sheets—you’ll always have a clean one ready!
Sizing Adjustments for Different Life Stages
Bernese Mountain Dogs grow from adorable fluffballs to gentle giants in what feels like minutes. Plan ahead!
Puppy stage (8 weeks – 6 months):
- Start with smaller 16-18 inch neck measurements
- Make adjustable fasteners with multiple snap positions
- Use lighter fabrics so they’re not overwhelmed
Adolescent stage (6 months – 2 years):
- Expect rapid growth spurts
- Check fit monthly and adjust fasteners
- This is peak drool time—have extras ready!
Adult stage (2+ years):
- Final sizing should be established
- Focus on durability and comfort
- Consider seasonal variations (fluffier winter coat = looser fit needed)
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Towel keeps sliding around
Solution: Add a small loop on the back that slides over the collar for extra stability
Problem: Dog won’t keep it on
Solution: Start with short wearing sessions paired with treats and praise. Make it a positive experience!
Problem: Fabric isn’t absorbent enough
Solution: Add a third middle layer of microfiber or switch to higher-quality terry cloth
Problem: Fasteners keep coming undone
Solution: Upgrade to heavy-duty snaps or add a second set for redundancy
Creative Variations and Advanced Projects
Once you’ve mastered the basic Bernese Mountain Dog DIY: How to Make a Custom Drool Towel (You’ll Need It), why stop there? Level up your drool towel game with these creative variations!
Seasonal and Holiday Versions
Create a wardrobe of drool towels for every occasion:
🎃 Fall/Halloween: Orange and black fabrics with pumpkin patterns
❄️ Winter/Christmas: Red and green plaid with snowflake embroidery
🌸 Spring: Pastel florals with butterfly appliqués
☀️ Summer: Bright tropical prints or patriotic themes
🎂 Birthday: Special “Birthday Pup” towel for party photos
These make amazing photo props and show off your Berner’s personality throughout the year!
Matching Sets for Multi-Dog Households
Have more than one drooler? Create coordinating sets!
- Use the same fabric pattern in different colorways
- Embroider each dog’s name in their signature color
- Create a “pack” theme with complementary designs
This also helps guests tell your furry family members apart (because let’s face it, all Berners look related!).
Reversible Drool Towels
Want more bang for your buck? Make reversible versions!
How to do it:
- Use two decorative fabrics instead of one decorative and one terry cloth
- Insert a thin layer of absorbent batting in the middle
- Topstitch in a decorative pattern to hold layers together
- Now you have two looks in one towel!
This is perfect for indecisive crafters who can’t choose just one fabric pattern.
Gift-Worthy Packaging Ideas
These custom drool towels make incredible gifts for fellow Berner owners! Package them thoughtfully:
- Roll and tie with ribbon
- Include care instructions on a cute tag
- Add a small bag of treats for the recipient’s pup
- Create a “Drool Survival Kit” with 2-3 towels, stain remover, and a funny card
At Berner meetups, these handmade gifts are always the hit of the party!
The Real-Life Impact: Stories from Berner Parents
Let’s hear from real Bernese Mountain Dog owners who’ve embraced the drool towel life:
Sarah from Colorado shares: “I made my first drool towel for my Berner, Boulder, when he was six months old. I was skeptical it would work, but it’s been a game-changer! We go through two towels a day, but my floors stay so much cleaner. Plus, Boulder looks adorable in his mountain-print towel. It matches his name perfectly!”
The Martinez family from Oregon created an entire collection: “We have three Berners, and drool was taking over our lives. After making custom towels for each dog, our house stays cleaner, and we’re not constantly wiping. The best part? Our dogs actually seem to like wearing them. We think they know they’re part of the family ‘uniform’ now.”
Mike, a first-time Berner owner, admits: “I’m not crafty at all, but I followed this tutorial and actually succeeded! My wife was shocked. My Berner, Moose, wears his drool towel every mealtime, and it catches probably 80% of the drool. I’ve already made three more in different patterns.”
These stories prove that this simple DIY project makes a real difference in daily life with these magnificent dogs[3].
Health and Safety Considerations
While drool towels are primarily about convenience and cleanliness, there are important health and safety aspects to consider:
When Drooling Signals a Problem
Normal drooling is expected in Bernese Mountain Dogs, but excessive or sudden changes in drooling can indicate health issues:
See your vet if you notice:
- Sudden increase in drooling
- Drool that smells foul or unusual
- Drooling accompanied by pawing at the mouth
- Blood-tinged drool
- Drooling with lethargy or other symptoms
Conditions like dental disease, oral injuries, nausea, or heat stroke can cause excessive drooling[1]. A drool towel manages normal drooling but doesn’t replace veterinary care for medical issues.
Safe Wearing Guidelines
Do:
- Check the fit regularly as your dog grows
- Remove the towel during unsupervised time
- Wash towels every 1-2 days to prevent bacterial growth
- Inspect fasteners regularly for wear and tear
Don’t:
- Leave on overnight or during crate time
- Make it so tight it restricts breathing or movement
- Use if your dog shows signs of distress or discomfort
- Ignore skin irritation or rubbing
Your Berner’s comfort and safety always come first. The drool towel should feel natural to them, not restrictive or annoying.
Fabric Safety
Choose fabrics that are:
- Non-toxic: Avoid fabrics treated with harsh chemicals
- Breathable: Especially important in warmer weather
- Colorfast: You don’t want dye transferring to your dog’s fur
- Durable: Fabrics that don’t shed fibers or fray excessively
Always pre-wash fabrics to remove any manufacturing residues before creating your towel.
Cost Breakdown: DIY vs. Store-Bought
Let’s talk numbers. Is making your own drool towel really worth it?
DIY Cost Analysis
Per towel (making 4 at once):
- Fabric (1 yard each of two types): $20-30 total
- Fasteners (sets of 4): $8-12
- Thread: $3-5
- Miscellaneous (pins, etc.): $5
Total for 4 towels: $36-52
Per towel cost: $9-13
Time investment: 1-2 hours for your first towel, 30-45 minutes each after that
Store-Bought Comparison
Commercial drool bibs:
- Basic versions: $15-25 each
- Premium/custom: $30-45 each
- Set of 3: $50-80
For 4 towels: $60-180
The verdict: DIY saves you $24-128 and gives you complete customization. Plus, you gain a new skill and the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands!
Environmental Benefits of DIY Drool Towels
In 2026, sustainability matters more than ever. Making your own drool towels is an eco-friendly choice:
Reduce waste:
- Use fabric scraps from other projects
- Repurpose old towels or t-shirts
- Avoid excessive packaging from store-bought items
Longer lifespan:
- Homemade towels can be repaired easily
- You control the quality of materials
- Well-made towels last years, not months
Conscious material choices:
- Select organic cotton or bamboo fabrics
- Choose locally-sourced materials when possible
- Avoid synthetic fabrics that shed microplastics
One crafty Berner owner even made drool towels from her old flannel pajamas—talk about upcycling! The fabric was already soft and broken in, making it perfect for her pup.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Drool Management Success
Congratulations! You now have everything you need to tackle this Bernese Mountain Dog DIY: How to Make a Custom Drool Towel (You’ll Need It) project with confidence. These lovable gentle giants bring so much joy to our lives—a little drool is a small price to pay for their companionship. But that doesn’t mean you can’t manage it stylishly and effectively!
Your Next Steps
Ready to get started? Here’s your action plan:
- Measure your Berner today while you’re thinking about it
- Browse fabric stores (online or in-person) for patterns that speak to you
- Gather your materials over the next week
- Set aside a crafting afternoon to create your first towel
- Test it out and make adjustments as needed
- Make more! Once you see how well it works, you’ll want backups
Remember, your first towel doesn’t have to be perfect. Even a simple, functional drool towel will make a huge difference in your daily life. As you gain confidence, you can experiment with more elaborate designs and techniques.
Join the Community
Share your creations! Post photos of your Berner modeling their new custom drool towel on social media with #BernerDroolTowel. Connect with other Berner parents, swap pattern ideas, and celebrate the wonderful chaos of life with these magnificent dogs.
Your Bernese Mountain Dog gives you unconditional love, loyalty, and yes, plenty of drool. Now you have the tools to manage that last part while keeping your furry family member comfortable and looking absolutely adorable. Happy crafting, and may your floors stay drool-free! 🐾
References
[1] American Kennel Club. (2025). “Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Information.” Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bernese-mountain-dog/
[2] Veterinary Partner. (2024). “Excessive Drooling in Dogs: Causes and Management.” VIN.com
[3] Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America. (2026). “Living with Berners: Care and Management Tips.” BMDCA.org
