Taking care of your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat can feel like a big job. Their thick, fluffy fur needs regular attention to stay healthy and tangle-free. If you want to keep your dog looking great and feeling comfortable, good grooming habits are key.
This article will share 24 easy tips to help you keep your Bernese Mountain Dog looking fluffy and fabulous every day. You don’t need to be a professional groomer to make a big difference in your dog’s appearance and comfort.
1) Brush your Bernese Mountain Dog daily to prevent tangles and mats
Brushing your Bernese daily helps keep their coat soft and tangle-free. Their thick fur can easily get knots, especially around the belly and behind the ears.
Use a slicker brush first to reach the top coat, then switch to a rake to get through the thick undercoat. This process stops mats from forming and reduces shedding.
If you find small tangles, gently tease them apart with your fingers while brushing. Doing this daily makes grooming faster and more comfortable for your dog.
Daily brushing keeps your Bernese looking fluffy and healthy. It also is a great way to spend time with your dog and check for skin issues.
2) Use a slicker brush for removing loose hair and debris
You want to keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat neat and free of loose hair. A slicker brush is perfect for this job. It has fine, short wires that gently lift away loose fur and dirt from your dog’s thick coat.
Using the slicker brush every 2-3 days helps stop hair from piling up around your home. The brush reaches deep into the undercoat where most shedding happens. This keeps your dog’s fur healthy and less tangled.
When brushing, be gentle to avoid hurting your dog’s skin. Regular use also helps you check for any mats or skin problems early. Your Bernese will look fluffy, clean, and feel more comfortable.
3) Apply a de-shedding rake once or twice a week during heavy shedding seasons.
When your Bernese Mountain Dog starts shedding a lot, using a de-shedding rake helps a lot. You should gently run the rake through their fur once or twice a week. This will remove loose hair before it falls all over your home.
Be careful not to press too hard, so your dog stays comfortable. Doing this regularly keeps their coat clean and healthy. It also helps reduce the amount of hair around your house.
Your dog will feel cooler and happier with less extra fur weighing them down. A de-shedding rake is a simple tool that makes a big difference during shedding season.
4) Bathe your dog every 6-8 weeks or when dirty.
You don’t need to bathe your Bernese Mountain Dog too often. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is usually enough to keep them clean and healthy.
If your dog gets muddy or starts to smell, it’s okay to give them a bath sooner. But avoid bathing too much because it can dry out their skin.
Use a gentle dog shampoo to keep their coat soft and shiny. After bathing, brush your dog to help remove loose hair and prevent mats.
Remember, regular brushing is more important than frequent baths to keep your Bernese looking fluffy.
5) Use a gentle dog shampoo formulated for sensitive skin.
You want your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat to stay soft and healthy. Using a gentle shampoo made for sensitive skin helps protect your dog’s skin from irritation.
Bernese dogs can sometimes develop red patches or hot spots. A shampoo that is mild and hypoallergenic can prevent these problems while keeping their fur shiny.
Look for shampoos that clean well without stripping natural oils. Avoid harsh chemicals that can dry out your dog’s coat. This will keep your Bernese feeling comfortable and looking fluffy after every bath.
6) Dry your dog thoroughly after baths to avoid skin issues
After giving your Bernese Mountain Dog a bath, make sure to dry them well. Their thick coat holds a lot of moisture, which can cause skin problems if left damp.
Use a towel to soak up most of the water first. If you have a blow dryer, use it on a low, cool setting to finish drying. This helps prevent discomfort and keeps their fur fluffy.
If you don’t want to use a dryer, you can let them air dry in a warm, dry room. Just be sure to brush their coat regularly to avoid tangles while drying.
Taking time to dry your dog fully will keep their skin healthy and their coat looking great.
7) Trim the fur around paws to keep them neat and clean.
You should trim the fur around your Bernese Mountain Dog’s paws regularly. This helps stop dirt and debris from getting stuck in the hair. It also prevents matting, which can be uncomfortable for your dog.
Cut the hair carefully between the paw pads. This can improve your dog’s grip when walking. Be sure to use scissors or clippers made for pets to avoid hurting the skin.
Trimming nails is important too, but don’t forget the fur. Keeping the paws tidy makes walking easier and reduces the chance of slipping. Plus, it helps keep your dog feeling fresh and comfortable.
8) Keep the nails clipped to a comfortable length
You should check your Bernese Mountain Dog’s nails regularly. Long nails can cause discomfort and affect how your dog walks.
Clip the nails little by little if your dog isn’t used to it. This helps your dog stay calm during nail trimming.
Use good nail clippers and be careful not to cut too close to the quick, which can hurt your dog. If you’re unsure, ask a vet or groomer for help.
Try to clip nails about once a week. This keeps them short and comfortable without causing stress for your dog.
9) Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved cleaner.
You should check your Bernese Mountain Dog’s ears every week. Their floppy ears can trap dirt and moisture, which might cause infections.
Use a cleaner made for dogs that your vet recommends. Avoid anything with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can irritate your dog’s ears.
Gently wipe the outer part of the ear with a cotton ball or soft cloth. Never stick anything deep into the ear canal, as this can hurt your dog.
Keeping ears clean helps your dog stay comfortable and healthy. It also lets you spot any problems early, like redness or bad smells.
10) Check for ticks and fleas regularly, especially after outdoor play
After your Bernese Mountain Dog spends time outside, especially in grassy or wooded areas, check their fur for ticks and fleas. These pests can hide in places like ears, paws, and under the legs.
Use a comb or run your fingers through their coat in a straight line to spot any tiny bugs. Doing this daily keeps your dog comfortable and helps catch problems early.
If you find a tick, remove it carefully with tweezers. Fleas can cause itching and skin problems, so keeping an eye out is important.
Regular checks help keep your dog healthy and happy while enjoying the outdoors.
11) Brush your dog’s teeth daily or every other day.
Brushing your Bernese Mountain Dog’s teeth helps keep their mouth healthy. Doing this every day or every other day can prevent bad breath and gum problems.
Use a toothbrush made for dogs and toothpaste that is safe for pets. Regular brushing stops plaque from building up and helps avoid more serious dental issues.
It might take some practice, but your dog will get used to it. Make brushing a calm and positive experience by giving lots of praise and small treats afterward.
12) Use Plush Puppy Shine spray for an extra glossy coat finish.
You can make your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat look shiny and healthy by using Plush Puppy Shine spray. This spray is light and oil-free, so it won’t make the fur greasy or heavy.
Simply mist a little spray from above the coat. It adds a nice shine that makes your dog’s fur stand out without feeling sticky.
This finishing touch helps bring out the color and natural gloss of your dog’s coat. It works well on all coat types, so it’s perfect for your fluffy Bernese.
Using this spray after grooming is an easy way to keep your dog looking fresh and fabulous every time.
13) Comb the coat while blow drying for a fluffy look
When blow drying your Bernese Mountain Dog, try combing the fur as you go. This helps separate the hairs and prevents clumps from forming. You’ll get a soft, fluffy finish by working through the coat little by little.
Start with a wide-tooth comb to gently untangle any knots. Then switch to a finer comb to smooth the fur. Keep the dryer on a low or medium heat to avoid hurting your dog’s skin.
Combing while drying lifts the undercoat and stops it from being flat. This method gives your dog a fuller, fluffier appearance that lasts longer than just drying alone. It also makes brushing easier the next time.
14) Avoid over-bathing to protect natural coat oils
You might think bathing your Bernese Mountain Dog often keeps them clean, but too much can actually harm their coat. Over-bathing strips away the natural oils that protect their skin and fur.
These oils keep their coat soft and shiny. Without them, your dog’s skin can become dry and itchy. It’s best to bathe your Bernese Mountain Dog only every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on how dirty they get.
Between baths, a good brushing helps remove dirt and loose fur while spreading these natural oils. This way, your dog stays clean and healthy without damaging their beautiful coat.
15) Use conditioner formulated for double-coated breeds.
Your Bernese Mountain Dog has a thick double coat. Using a conditioner made especially for double coats helps keep their fur soft and smooth.
This type of conditioner works by detangling the hair and making brushing easier. It also helps prevent mats and keeps the coat healthy.
Apply the conditioner after shampooing while the coat is still damp. You can also use a spray conditioner during brushing to keep the fur manageable.
Conditioners for double-coated dogs are designed to reach both layers of the coat. This helps protect your dog’s natural oils and reduces shedding.
Using the right conditioner will make grooming less stressful for you and more comfortable for your dog. It’s an important step in keeping your Bernese fluffy and happy.
16) Keep coat trimmed lightly around the rear for hygiene
You should trim the fur around your Bernese Mountain Dog’s rear gently. This helps keep the area clean and reduces the chance of dirt or waste getting stuck in the fur.
Keeping this area tidy also makes it easier to spot any skin problems early. Use blunt scissors or grooming clippers carefully, so you don’t hurt your dog’s skin.
Regular trimming here helps your dog feel more comfortable and fresh. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in everyday cleanliness.
17) Use a long-toothed comb to detangle stubborn mats gently.
When your Bernese Mountain Dog has mats that won’t come out easily, a long-toothed comb is your best tool. It reaches deep into the fur without pulling too hard.
Start by working through the top layers first. This helps you see any knots hidden underneath.
Always be gentle. Pulling too hard can hurt your dog’s skin. If a mat is very tight, try using a detangling spray before combing.
Take your time and work in small sections. This keeps grooming calm and comfortable for your dog.
With regular use, the long-toothed comb can stop mats from turning into big problems. Keep one handy to keep your pup’s coat soft and fluffy.
18) Provide a balanced diet rich in omega fatty acids for healthy skin
To keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat soft and shiny, feeding a diet rich in omega fatty acids is key. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin.
You can find these fatty acids in fish oils, like salmon oil, or in special supplements made for dogs. Adding these to your dog’s meals can improve coat quality and reduce dryness or itchiness.
Make sure the sources are fresh and clean to get the best benefits. Feeding your dog balanced meals with omega fatty acids twice a day helps maintain that fluffy, healthy look you want.
19) Brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid discomfort
When you brush your Bernese Mountain Dog, always go with the flow of their fur. This means brushing from the skin outward, following the way the hair naturally grows. Doing this helps keep your pup comfortable and stops their skin from getting irritated.
If you brush against the hair growth, it can pull on the fur and hurt your dog. Take your time and use gentle, short strokes. This way, your dog will enjoy grooming more and stay calm during every session.
Brushing in the right direction also helps remove loose hair better. It keeps your dog’s coat smooth and healthy without causing any pain. Try to brush small sections at a time for the best results.
20) Use grooming gloves for sensitive skin and light shedding
You can make grooming easier by using grooming gloves. These gloves have soft silicone tips that gently remove loose hair without hurting your dog’s skin.
If your Bernese Mountain Dog has sensitive skin, gloves are a great choice. They give a gentle massage that your dog will enjoy while keeping their coat clean.
Grooming gloves are also handy during light shedding times. You can quickly remove small amounts of loose fur without making a big mess. Plus, the gloves fit your hand, so you have good control while brushing.
Using gloves helps keep your dog comfortable and looking fluffy with less effort from you. Try them to make grooming a calm and easy routine.
21) Schedule professional grooming every 3-4 months
Taking your Bernese Mountain Dog to a professional groomer every 3-4 months helps keep their coat healthy and clean. Groomers can handle tasks like trimming nails, cleaning ears, and managing any mats or tangles.
This regular care also helps catch skin issues early. Professionals know how to keep your dog comfortable without stripping natural oils from their thick coat.
Even if you brush your dog often at home, a professional grooming session makes sure your Bernese looks its best. It’s a nice way to give your pup extra care and keep them feeling great!
22) Reward your dog with treats to create positive grooming experiences
You can make grooming time much nicer for your Bernese Mountain Dog by using treats. Giving treats when your dog stays calm or lets you brush helps them link grooming with good things.
Keep treats small and tasty. Use them right after your dog behaves well during grooming. This will encourage them to enjoy the process more.
Positive reinforcement with treats reduces stress for your dog. It also makes future grooming easier because your dog will look forward to it. This simple step can make a big difference in how your dog feels about being groomed.
23) Use a rubber curry brush in warm weather to massage and loosen dead hair
When the weather gets warm, your Bernese Mountain Dog will start shedding more. A rubber curry brush helps you gently massage their skin while loosening dead hair. This tool works great for getting rid of loose fur without hurting your dog.
Using the rubber curry brush also feels nice to your dog. The soft rubber tips stimulate their skin and can help improve blood flow. It’s easy to use during bath time, too, since the brush helps spread shampoo and clean deeper.
Try brushing in small circles to reach the loose hair under the coat. This method can make grooming quicker and keep your dog comfortable on hot days.
24) Remove excess undercoat during shedding season to control hair mess
During shedding season, your Bernese Mountain Dog will lose a lot of undercoat. To keep your home cleaner, you need to remove this loose fur regularly.
Use an undercoat rake or a de-shedding tool once or twice a week. This helps grab the loose hairs before they fall all over your floors and furniture.
Pair this with a slicker brush to smooth out the coat and catch any remaining stray hairs. Regular grooming not only controls mess but keeps your pup comfy too.
By staying on top of shedding, you save time cleaning and help your dog look fluffy and neat. Make this a routine during shedding season.
