Bernedoodle grooming isn’t just about keeping them looking cute—it’s essential for their health, comfort, and well-being. With their signature fluffy coats and lovable personalities, Bernedoodles thrive when given regular, thoughtful care. At Fox Creek Farm, we place a strong emphasis on coat health from day one, ensuring that our dogs are well-prepared for lifelong grooming routines. Whether your Bernedoodle has a curly, wavy, or straight coat, knowing how to groom them properly will make all the difference.

Understanding the Bernedoodle Coat

One of the most charming features of the Bernedoodle is its coat. But this also means Bernedoodle grooming isn’t one-size-fits-all. Bernedoodles can inherit different coat textures depending on the genetics of their Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog parents.

The three main coat types:

• Curly Coat – Dense and Poodle-like; highly hypoallergenic but prone to matting without routine care.
• Wavy Coat – The most common Bernedoodle coat; slightly looser curls and easier to manage.
• Straight Coat – Less common; typically easier to brush.

Each coat type requires consistent attention to prevent tangles, matting, and discomfort. Grooming also helps regulate your Bernedoodle’s temperature and keeps their skin healthy and free of buildup. Even though all dogs from Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles are hypoallergenic, regular brushing still plays a vital role in overall wellness.

How Often Should Bernedoodle Grooming Happen?

There’s no universal answer—Bernedoodle grooming frequency depends largely on coat type, lifestyle, and environment. But a regular routine helps you stay ahead of matting and keeps your Bernedoodle looking and feeling their best.

Here’s a basic guideline:

• Brushing:
  • Curly coats: Daily brushing to prevent tight mats
  • Wavy coats: Every other day
  • Straight coats: 2–3 times per week
• Bathing: Every 4–8 weeks, depending on activity level and coat condition
• Professional grooming: Every 6–10 weeks for full trims and coat shaping

Important Tip:
Overbathing can strip your Bernedoodle’s coat of natural oils. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo, and always make sure they’re thoroughly dried after every bath—especially if they have a thick or curly coat.

Brushing Your Bernedoodle at Home

Routine brushing is at the heart of Bernedoodle grooming. It not only keeps the coat free of tangles but also stimulates healthy skin and distributes natural oils that give their coat a healthy shine. Depending on whether your Bernedoodle has a curly, wavy, or straight coat, your approach and tools may vary slightly—but the goal remains the same: a happy, mat-free pup.

Recommended brushes and tools:

• Slicker brush: Ideal for detangling and removing loose hair
• Dematting comb: Essential for curly coats or after play in muddy or damp environments
• Stainless steel comb: Perfect for finishing and getting deep down to the skin
• Detangling spray: Helps prevent pulling and makes the process smoother

When brushing, be gentle but thorough. Always work in sections and brush all the way down to the skin—not just the surface—to prevent mats from forming close to the roots.

Pro tip: Pay close attention to friction areas such as behind the ears, under the legs, the chest, and the base of the tail—these are the spots where matting sneaks up the fastest.

Bathing Tips for a Healthy, Shiny Coat

Bath time can be a joyful bonding experience or a struggle, depending on your Bernedoodle’s temperament. Fortunately, dogs from Fox Creek Farm are introduced to basic handling and Bernedoodle grooming early on, which helps make bath time more familiar.

Bathing tips for your Bernedoodle:

• Always brush before the bath. Mats tighten when wet.
• Use lukewarm water—not too hot or cold.
• Choose a hypoallergenic or oatmeal-based dog shampoo for sensitive skin.
• Work the shampoo gently into the coat and rinse thoroughly to avoid residue buildup.

Don’t skip conditioner if your Bernedoodle has a curly or longer coat—it helps maintain softness and manageability. After rinsing, gently towel dry and, if needed, use a pet-safe blow dryer on a low setting to dry the coat completely. Moisture trapped near the skin can lead to irritation or hot spots.

Trimming and Haircuts: What You Need to Know

Bernedoodles benefit from regular trims to keep their coat manageable and their features visible. While you can certainly maintain basic hygiene trims at home, many Bernedoodle owners opt for professional grooming every couple of months to ensure the coat stays in shape.

Popular Bernedoodle haircut styles:

• Teddy Bear Cut: A rounded, fluffy style that keeps the coat medium-length all over
• Kennel Cut: A shorter, lower-maintenance trim for active dogs
• Face-Feet-Fanny Trim: A functional clean-up focusing on hygiene zones between full grooms

Make sure to trim or tidy sensitive areas regularly:

• Around the eyes to prevent vision blockage and tear stains
• Paws to keep fur from trapping dirt and debris
• Sanitary areas for cleanliness and comfort

Nail Care, Ear Cleaning, and Dental Hygiene

While brushing and bathing get most of the grooming attention, there are three equally important areas that every Bernedoodle owner must not overlook: nails, ears, and teeth. These smaller details play a big role in your Bernedoodle’s comfort and long-term health.

Nail Care

Nails that grow too long can affect your dog’s gait, cause discomfort, or even lead to injury. Most Bernedoodles need their nails trimmed every 3–4 weeks, though the rate can vary depending on how active they are and the surfaces they walk on.

Signs your Bernedoodle’s nails are too long:

• Clicking on hard floors
• Hesitation to walk or jump
• Splayed toes or shifting posture

You can trim nails at home using dog-specific clippers or a rotary grinder, or you may prefer to have a groomer or vet technician handle it.

Ear Cleaning

Because Bernedoodles often inherit the Poodle’s floppy ears, routine ear care is an essential part of Bernedoodle grooming. These ears can trap moisture and debris, making them more prone to infections.

Ear care tips:

• Clean ears weekly using a vet-approved solution
• Check for redness, odor, or discharge
• Keep ears dry after swimming or baths

Avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal. Instead, use a cotton ball or gauze pad to gently wipe out visible dirt and buildup.

Dental Hygiene

Dental health is often underestimated, but it’s a crucial part of your Bernedoodle’s overall wellness. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and even systemic health problems.

Ways to support dental health:

• Brush your Bernedoodle’s teeth 2–3 times a week using a dog-safe toothpaste
• Provide dental chews or toys that help reduce plaque
• Schedule professional cleanings with your vet as needed

At Fox Creek Farm, we emphasize early desensitization to these care routines so that your puppy learns to tolerate, and even enjoy, regular grooming from a young age.

Seasonal Bernedoodle Grooming Considerations

Just like humans, Bernedoodles respond to the changing seasons—and so should their grooming routines. As the weather shifts, so do your dog’s grooming needs.

During warmer months:

• Trim fur slightly shorter to keep your Bernedoodle cooler
• Watch for dry or sunburned skin, especially on shaved areas
• Rinse their paws after outdoor adventures to prevent irritants from building up

During colder months:

• Avoid shaving the coat too short—it helps insulate their body
• Use a moisturizing shampoo to prevent winter skin dryness
• Be extra attentive to matting, which is more likely with winter layering

Year-round, grooming provides an excellent opportunity to inspect your dog’s skin and coat for any changes, like hot spots, ticks, or new bumps. Early detection is key to proactive care.

Signs Your Bernedoodle Needs More Grooming Attention

Even with a consistent routine, certain signs can pop up that indicate your Bernedoodle might need extra grooming help. Paying attention to these early warnings can prevent discomfort and potential health issues.

Watch for the following:

• Matted fur that feels dense or forms clumps, especially behind the ears or under the legs
• Unpleasant odor, which can signal dirty ears, skin buildup, or even dental concerns
• Excessive scratching or licking, often linked to dirty coats or minor skin infections
• Watery or crusty eyes, especially if fur is growing too close to the eyes
• Overgrown nails, which affect how your Bernedoodle walks and plays

Addressing these signs early—whether with home care or professional grooming—helps ensure your dog stays happy, healthy, and comfortable.

Creating a Bernedoodle Grooming Routine That Works for You

The key to success with Bernedoodle grooming is consistency. A Bernedoodle thrives on structure and predictability, and grooming can become a positive bonding time with the right approach. Set a realistic schedule that works for your lifestyle while meeting your dog’s needs.

Try this sample routine:

• Daily or every other day: Brushing
• Weekly: Ear cleaning and quick body check
• Every 3–4 weeks: Nail trimming
• Every 6–8 weeks: Full bath and haircut

Tips to make grooming easier:

• Use positive reinforcement—praise and treats go a long way
• Start slow, especially with young or nervous dogs
• Choose a quiet, calm area with minimal distractions
• Keep sessions short at first and gradually extend the time

At Fox Creek Farm, our puppies are introduced to grooming early, which helps them adapt to regular care more easily in their forever homes.

Final Thoughts: Bernedoodle Grooming is Part of the Bond

Grooming a Bernedoodle goes far beyond appearances. It supports their physical health, prevents common issues, and gives you a chance to connect on a deeper level. From brushing to bathing to the occasional trim, each step is an act of love that helps your Bernedoodle thrive.

Dogs from Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles are raised to enjoy these routines from a young age—making it easier for new families to continue healthy habits from the very beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions: Bernedoodle Grooming

How often should I groom my Bernedoodle?
It depends on the coat type, but most Bernedoodles need brushing several times a week and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.

What kind of haircut is best for a Bernedoodle?
The teddy bear cut is one of the most popular—keeping the coat at a manageable medium length while maintaining the breed’s signature fluffiness.

Are Bernedoodles high maintenance when it comes to grooming?
They can be, especially curly-coated types. However, a consistent routine and the right tools make grooming very manageable.

Can I groom my Bernedoodle at home?
Yes, many owners groom their Bernedoodles at home, especially for brushing, bathing, and basic trims. For haircuts, many still choose to visit a professional.

What’s the best brush for a Bernedoodle coat?
A slicker brush is ideal for most Bernedoodles, paired with a steel comb to finish and catch deeper tangles.

Do Bernedoodles shed?
Some Bernedoodles may shed, however, all Bernedoodles from Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles are hypoallergenic due to selective breeding techniques for customer quality.

How can I prevent matting in my Bernedoodle?
Frequent brushing and regular grooming prevent mats. Always brush before a bath to avoid wetting tangled hair, which tightens knots.

How short should I cut my Bernedoodle’s nails?
Trim just enough to avoid clicking sounds on hard surfaces. Be cautious not to cut the quick, especially if nails are dark-colored.

What shampoo is safe for Bernedoodles?
Look for gentle, hypoallergenic shampoos—especially those with natural ingredients like oatmeal or aloe.

Is it okay to use human grooming tools on a Bernedoodle?
No, human brushes and clippers aren’t designed for dog coats and may cause discomfort. Always use pet-specific tools.