Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming Guide: Coat Care & Tips (2026)

Bernese Mountain Dog Coat Overview

The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for one of the most beautiful coats in the dog world — a long, thick, silky double coat with a striking tricolor pattern of jet black, bright white, and warm rust markings. Originally bred in the Swiss Alps to work as farm dogs, their coat was designed to withstand harsh mountain winters and rugged terrain.

The double coat consists of two distinct layers:

• Outer coat (guard hairs): Long, slightly wavy or straight, and moderately coarse. This layer repels water, blocks UV rays, and protects against dirt, debris, and insect bites. The outer coat gives the Bernese its signature luxurious, flowing appearance.
• Undercoat: Dense, soft, and woolly. This thick insulating layer traps warm air in winter and cool air in summer, acting as a natural temperature regulator. The undercoat is where most of the shedding comes from.

At 70 to 115 pounds and up to 27.5 inches tall, Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large breed with a massive coat surface area. This means grooming takes significantly more time, product, and effort than smaller double-coated breeds. The long topcoat is also prone to tangling and matting, particularly in areas with feathering — behind the ears, around the chest ruff, under the armpits, and on the rear legs.

Heavy Shedding and Coat Blowing

Bernese Mountain Dogs are heavy shedders year-round, and the shedding intensifies dramatically twice a year during spring and fall when they "blow coat." During these 2-4 week periods, the dense undercoat sheds in large clumps, and you will find tufts of fur on every surface in your home. Berners are often described as one of the heaviest-shedding breeds, rivaling even German Shepherds in the sheer volume of fur they produce.

Between these major shedding events, expect a steady supply of loose fur on your clothes, furniture, and floors. Consistent grooming is not optional for this breed — it is a necessity for keeping the coat healthy and your home manageable.

Regular brushing is the most important grooming task for managing a Bernese Mountain Dog's thick double coat

How Often to Groom a Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs need a consistent grooming routine to keep their long, thick coat healthy, mat-free, and manageable. Here is the recommended schedule:

Unlike breeds that require regular haircuts, Bernese Mountain Dog grooming focuses on coat maintenance, de-shedding, and mat prevention. Some groomers may do light trimming around the ears, paws, and sanitary areas to keep things tidy, but the breed standard calls for a natural, flowing coat. The primary goals are removing dead undercoat, preventing tangles, distributing natural oils, and keeping the skin healthy.

Step-by-Step Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming Routine

Follow this routine for a thorough at-home grooming session or to understand what your professional groomer should be doing:

Step 1: Pre-Brush and De-Mat

Start with a thorough brushing session before bathing. Never bathe a Bernese Mountain Dog with mats in the coat — water tightens tangles and turns them into solid, painful mats that may need to be cut out. Begin with a slicker brush to work through the long topcoat, then switch to an undercoat rake to reach the dense undercoat and pull out loose fur from the roots.

Pay special attention to the mat-prone areas: behind the ears, the chest ruff, under the armpits, the feathering on the back legs, and around the collar area. Use a steel comb to check for any remaining tangles. For stubborn tangles, apply a detangling spray and gently work through them with your fingers before using the comb.

During shedding season, this pre-brush step can take 30-45 minutes and yield an enormous pile of fur. Working outdoors is highly recommended.

Step 2: Bathing

Bathe your Bernese Mountain Dog every 6-8 weeks, or more frequently during shedding season. Use a high-quality, dog-specific shampoo — never human shampoo, which strips the coat's natural oils. For Berners with sensitive skin, choose an oatmeal-based or hypoallergenic formula.

1. Thoroughly wet the coat down to the skin — the dense double coat is highly water-resistant, so this requires patience and a strong water flow
2. Apply shampoo and work it deeply through the coat with your fingers, massaging all the way to the undercoat
3. Pay attention to the chest, belly, behind the ears, and under the tail where dirt and drool accumulate
4. Rinse thoroughly and completely — leftover shampoo trapped in the dense coat causes itching, flaking, and hot spots
5. Apply a conditioner designed for long-coated breeds to help with detangling and reduce static, then rinse fully

Bathing a Bernese Mountain Dog requires patience — their long, dense double coat is naturally water-resistant

Step 3: Drying and Post-Bath De-Shedding

Thorough drying is critical for Bernese Mountain Dogs. Their dense undercoat holds moisture close to the skin, creating the perfect environment for hot spots, fungal infections, and bacterial skin issues if not dried completely. Use a high-velocity dryer to blow the coat dry — this also blasts out a significant amount of additional loose undercoat that was loosened during the bath.

Towel drying alone will not cut it with a Berner. Air drying can take many hours and traps moisture against the skin. This is one of the strongest reasons to use a professional groomer who has commercial-grade high-velocity drying equipment designed for large, heavy-coated breeds.

Step 4: Final Brush-Out

Once the coat is fully dry, do a complete final brush-out. Start with the slicker brush to smooth the long topcoat, then use the undercoat rake for any remaining loose undercoat. Finish by running a steel comb through the entire coat to check for missed tangles. Pay extra attention to the feathering on the legs, chest, and tail. This step distributes natural oils and gives the coat a healthy, glossy shine.

Step 5: Nail Trimming

Bernese Mountain Dogs need their nails trimmed every 2-4 weeks. Given their large size and heavy build, overgrown nails can affect their gait and put added stress on joints — a particular concern for a breed prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Use a nail grinder for more control or heavy-duty clippers rated for large breeds. Trim just before the quick (the pink area visible on light nails). For more detailed instructions, see our dog nail trimming guide.

Step 6: Ear Cleaning

Bernese Mountain Dogs have floppy, pendant ears that trap moisture, warmth, and debris — making them highly prone to ear infections. Clean ears weekly with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution and cotton balls. Gently lift the ear flap, apply the solution, massage the base of the ear, and wipe away loosened wax and debris. Never insert cotton swabs into the ear canal. Always dry ears thoroughly after baths or swimming.

Step 7: Teeth, Sanitary Trim, and Paw Check

Finish by brushing teeth with a dog-specific toothpaste (2-3 times per week is ideal). Trim any excess fur around the sanitary area for hygiene. Check paw pads for debris, cracks, or overgrown fur between the toes — Berners grow dense fur between their pads that should be trimmed flush with the pads to prevent slipping on smooth floors and reduce the amount of dirt and ice tracked inside.

Should You Shave a Bernese Mountain Dog?

No. You should never shave a Bernese Mountain Dog. This is one of the most common and damaging grooming mistakes owners make, often with good intentions during hot summer months. The Bernese Mountain Dog's double coat is a sophisticated system that should not be removed. Here is why shaving is harmful:

• Destroys natural temperature regulation: The undercoat traps cool air against the skin in summer, functioning like a natural air conditioner. Without it, the dog's body temperature actually rises, making them hotter and at greater risk of heat stroke.
• Sun and UV exposure: The long topcoat blocks harmful UV rays. Shaved Berners are at serious risk of sunburn, especially on the light-colored areas of their skin, and increased risk of skin cancer.
• Coat may never grow back properly: Shaving can cause "post-clipping alopecia," where the coat grows back patchy, uneven, or with a permanently altered texture. The undercoat often grows back faster than the guard hairs, resulting in a dull, fuzzy coat that mats more easily.
• Increased insect vulnerability: The coat provides a physical barrier against mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and other biting insects that can transmit disease.
• Removes protection from dirt and moisture: Guard hairs repel water and debris, keeping the skin clean and dry. Without this layer, the skin is exposed to environmental irritants.

What to do instead: Keep up with regular brushing and professional de-shedding treatments to thin out the undercoat naturally. Provide shade, fresh water, and cooling mats in hot weather. Avoid exercising your Berner during the hottest parts of the day. If your groomer suggests shaving your Bernese Mountain Dog, find a different groomer who understands double-coated breeds.

Professional grooming for Bernese Mountain Dogs focuses on de-shedding and coat maintenance, not shaving or clipping

Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming Cost

Bernese Mountain Dogs are one of the most expensive breeds to groom professionally due to their large size (70-115 lbs), long coat, and the significant time required for thorough bathing, drying, and de-shedding. A grooming session for a Berner typically takes 2-3 hours.

Based on professional grooming every 6-8 weeks with standard services, expect to spend approximately $500-$800 per year on Bernese Mountain Dog grooming. This places them in the higher range compared to most breeds, driven primarily by their large size and the extra time their coat demands.

For a broader comparison with other breeds, check out our complete guide to dog grooming costs. And remember, tipping your groomer 15-20% is standard — grooming a 100-pound Bernese Mountain Dog is serious physical work, and your groomer earns every dollar.

Ways to Save on Grooming Costs

• Regular at-home brushing: Reduces grooming time and therefore cost at the salon — a well-maintained coat is much faster to process
• Bundle services: Many groomers offer package deals for bath + nails + ears + de-shedding
• Maintain a consistent schedule: Neglected, matted coats take much longer and cost significantly more
• Self-service dog wash stations: Use for DIY baths between professional grooms at a fraction of the cost
• Grooming school discounts: Students-in-training offer lower rates under experienced supervision

See our pet grooming prices page for current average costs in your area.

Common Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming Challenges

Even experienced dog owners can face grooming difficulties with Bernese Mountain Dogs. Here are the most common issues and how to handle them:

Extreme Shedding

This is the number one grooming challenge. Bernese Mountain Dogs are among the heaviest-shedding breeds, producing large volumes of fur year-round. During coat blowing season in spring and fall, you may brush out enough fur to fill a garbage bag in a single session. The long topcoat makes the shedding even more visible on clothing and furniture than shorter-haired double-coated breeds.

Solutions: Commit to brushing 3-4 times weekly (daily during shedding season). Invest in a high-quality undercoat rake and de-shedding tool. Schedule professional de-shedding treatments every 3-4 weeks during peak season. Use lint rollers, furniture covers, and a powerful vacuum at home. A diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promotes a healthy coat and helps reduce excessive shedding.

Hot Spots

Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis) are a common problem for Bernese Mountain Dogs. These are red, inflamed, oozing patches of skin that appear suddenly and spread quickly. They develop when moisture gets trapped against the skin under the thick coat — often after bathing without thorough drying, swimming, or during humid weather.

Solutions: Always dry the coat completely after baths using a high-velocity dryer. Never let your Berner air dry. Keep the coat well-brushed to allow air circulation to the skin. If a hot spot develops, clip the fur around the area, clean with a veterinary antiseptic, and see your vet if it worsens. Preventing matting is key, as mats trap moisture against the skin.

Ear Infections

Bernese Mountain Dogs have large, floppy ears that create a warm, moist environment ideal for bacterial and yeast infections. Signs include head shaking, ear scratching, redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor from the ear canal.

Solutions: Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved solution. Dry ears thoroughly after baths, swimming, or wet weather. Check ears during every brushing session and look for signs of irritation. Keep the fur around the ear opening trimmed to improve airflow. If you notice signs of infection, see your vet promptly before the condition worsens.

Drool Stains

While not as drooly as some giant breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs do produce a moderate amount of drool, particularly after eating, drinking, exercise, or in warm weather. Drool can cause staining and matting on the fur around the mouth, chin, and chest — especially visible on the white areas of the coat.

Solutions: Wipe your Berner's face and chest with a damp cloth after meals and water breaks. Keep the fur around the mouth and chin trimmed and clean. Use a whitening shampoo on the white areas of the coat during bath time to reduce visible staining. Keep a "drool towel" handy for quick cleanups throughout the day.

Regular nail trimming prevents joint issues — especially important for large breeds prone to hip and elbow dysplasia

Essential Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming Tools

Having the right tools makes grooming a Bernese Mountain Dog significantly easier and more effective. Here is what every Berner owner should have:

Total investment for a complete at-home grooming kit: approximately $140-$320. This pays for itself within a few months compared to professional grooming alone. Even if you use a professional groomer regularly, having these tools at home for between-appointment maintenance is essential for a breed with this much coat.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tools

• Undercoat rake: Look for one with rotating teeth to prevent pulling and reduce discomfort. Double-row rakes work best for the Bernese's thick, long coat.
• Slicker brush: Get a large-size brush with flexible pins that can reach through the long topcoat. Self-cleaning models with a retractable pin plate save considerable time.
• De-shedding tool: Choose one specifically designed for large, long-haired double-coated breeds. Avoid cheap imitations that can damage or cut the topcoat.
• Nail grinder: Cordless models with variable speed give you the most control. Choose one rated for large breeds with powerful motors.

DIY vs Professional Grooming

Bernese Mountain Dogs present unique grooming challenges due to their size and coat volume. Here are the trade-offs between doing it yourself and using a professional:

When DIY Grooming Works Well

• Regular brushing and de-shedding: This is the bread and butter of Berner grooming and is manageable at home with the right tools and patience
• Ear cleaning: Simple weekly routine with the right supplies and technique
• Nail maintenance: With a good grinder and some practice, nail trimming is straightforward
• Quick face wipes and drool cleanup: Daily maintenance that does not require a grooming salon
• Spot cleaning: Addressing dirty paws or muddy belly between full baths

When to Use a Professional Groomer

• Full bath and blow-dry: Bathing and completely drying a 100-pound Bernese at home is a major undertaking — professional equipment makes it faster and more thorough
• De-shedding treatments during coat blow: Professional high-velocity dryers and de-shedding baths remove far more coat than home tools can
• Mat removal: If mats have formed, a professional can safely remove them without hurting the dog or cutting the skin
• Skin or coat issues: Groomers can spot early signs of hot spots, skin infections, parasites, or other abnormalities
• Sanitary and paw pad trims: Professionals have the tools and skill for precise trimming around sensitive areas
• Anal gland expression: Best left to professionals or veterinarians

The Best Approach: Combination

Most experienced Bernese Mountain Dog owners use a combination approach: professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for thorough bathing, drying, and de-shedding, combined with at-home brushing 3-4 times per week and regular nail, ear, and drool maintenance. This keeps costs manageable while ensuring the coat stays in optimal condition and your Berner remains comfortable and healthy. For Bernese Mountain Dogs that get anxious during car rides to the salon, a mobile grooming service can bring professional-grade equipment directly to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

Bernese Mountain Dogs need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, costing $65-$100 per session. Their long, thick double coat with its beautiful tricolor pattern sheds heavily year-round and blows out massively twice a year. The keys to success are consistent brushing at home (3-4 times weekly, daily during shedding season), professional de-shedding treatments, thorough drying after every bath, and never, ever shaving the coat.

Berners are a high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Their large size, heavy shedding, susceptibility to hot spots and ear infections, and tendency to drool all demand dedicated attention. But with the right tools, a consistent routine, and a skilled groomer who understands double-coated breeds, your Bernese Mountain Dog's coat will stay healthy, beautiful, and comfortable through every season.

Considering a Bernese Mountain Dog mix? Check out our guide on Bernedoodle costs and care to see how crossing with a Poodle changes the grooming requirements.

Ready to find a professional groomer for your Bernese Mountain Dog? find groomers near you for experienced groomers near you.