Bernedoodle

Brushing Routine

Brush daily with a slicker brush, pin brush, and metal comb in rotation. Their thick, wavy to curly coat inherited from both the Bernese and Poodle parent is dense and prone to matting. Line-brush in sections, starting at the legs and working up. The areas behind the ears, chest, and the back of the thighs mat fastest.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 3-4 weeks with a rich moisturizing shampoo and heavy conditioner to maintain their thick, luxurious coat. Their dense coat holds a significant amount of water -- allow extra drying time with a high-velocity dryer. Ensure complete drying to the skin to prevent hot spots in the dense undercoat layers.

Common Issues

• Dense coat mats severely and can require full shave-downs if neglected
• Size variation (standard, mini, tiny) means grooming needs vary in scale
• Hot spots in Houston's humidity from moisture trapped in dense coat
• Ear infections from thick ear hair
• Tri-color coats may show different textures in different color areas

Extend Your Grooming Results

Establish a non-negotiable daily brushing routine from puppyhood -- Bernedoodles that are not trained to accept grooming early become extremely difficult as large adults. Use a leave-in conditioner spray before every brushing session. Focus 60% of brushing time on the mat-prone areas: behind ears, armpits, groin, and hind legs.

Seasonal Care

Low shedding in curlier coats, moderate in wavier coats. Houston summers benefit from a shorter clip -- many owners prefer a 1-2 inch all-over cut for summer and grow the coat longer in winter. Their thick coat provides good insulation but traps humidity. Year-round coat growth requires regular trimming.

Maintenance Schedule

Brush daily without exception, full comb-through every other day, ear cleaning weekly, nail trim every 3-4 weeks. Professional groom with haircut every 6-8 weeks. Puppy grooming visits should start at 10-12 weeks for acclimation.