If your Bernedoodle’s coat seems to have a mind of its own—fluffy one day, matted the next—you’re not alone!
Grooming is key, especially in Pennsylvania’s ever-changing seasons. That’s why Bernedoodle coat care and seasonal grooming tips in PA are a must for keeping your pup comfy year-round.
From brushing routines to seasonal trims and must-have tools, this guide covers everything you need to keep your Bernedoodle looking and feeling great—no matter the weather.
Bernedoodle Coat Types: What You Need to Know
Bernedoodles may all share that lovable, fluffy charm, but their coats can be surprisingly different. Some are wavy, others curly, and a few are straight. Knowing your pup’s coat type helps with proper grooming.
Wavy (fleece) coat: A mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog’s straight hair and a Poodle’s curls, this coat is soft, low-shedding, and easier to maintain than the tightly curled variety. It’s less likely to mat but still needs regular brushing to stay smooth and fluffy.
Straight coat: This coat resembles the Bernese parent, with long, thick hair that sheds more than the other types. While tangles aren’t a major issue, frequent brushing helps keep loose fur under control, especially in the spring and fall when shedding increases.
Curly (wool) coat: Curly-coated Bernedoodles take after their Poodle parent and are the most hypoallergenic option. These tight curls rarely shed, but they require frequent grooming to prevent mats. Regular trims and deep brushing sessions are a must to keep their coat manageable.
How to identify your dog’s coat type
Not sure what type of coat your Bernedoodle has?
Run your fingers through their fur—loose waves mean fleece, tight curls mean wool, and straight hair with shedding points to a straight coat.
How the Climate Affects Bernedoodle Grooming
Pennsylvania’s changing seasons can be tough on your Bernedoodle’s coat. From icy winters to humid summers, each season brings new grooming challenges.
Winter: Longer coats provide warmth but need regular brushing to prevent matting. Snow, ice, and road salt can irritate paws, so protective paw balm helps keep them soft and crack-free.
Spring: As winter coats shed, loose hair tangles easily. Frequent brushing prevents mats, and regular baths wash away spring mud and pollen.
Summer: A shorter trim helps prevent overheating while brushing removes dirt and allergens. Light-coated Bernedoodles may need pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas.
Fall: As their coat thickens, hydrating shampoos prevent dryness from indoor heating. Check for burrs and leaf debris after outdoor play.
Seasonal Grooming Routine for Bernedoodles (Step-by-Step Guide)
Each season calls for a different approach to keep your Bernedoodle looking fresh and feeling comfortable. A little extra care goes a long way in preventing tangles, dryness, and overheating.
Winter: Keeping that fluff functional
Cold weather means more fur maintenance, not less. Snow and ice can get stuck in longer coats, leading to tangles and irritation. Regular brushing keeps mats under control, while a hydrating conditioner helps prevent dry, flaky skin.
Road salt can be harsh on paws, so checking and wiping them after walks is a must. If your pup gets wet outside, drying them thoroughly helps prevent matting.
Spring: Shedding and de-matting 101
As winter coats start to shed, brushing sessions should happen more often. Deep brushing removes loose undercoat before it turns into knots. This is also a great time to trim problem areas like behind the ears and under the legs, where mats form quickly.
Flea and tick season begins now, so checking their coat and starting prevention treatments early can save a lot of trouble later.
Summer: Keeping cool and comfortable
A shorter trim can help your Bernedoodle stay cool, but a complete shave isn’t necessary. The right cut, like a teddy bear or summer trim, reduces heat retention while keeping their fur manageable. Increased outdoor time means more brushing to remove dirt, pollen, and debris.
Light-colored dogs can get sunburned, so applying pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas, like the nose and ears, helps protect their skin.
Fall: Prepping for the cold
As temperatures drop, your Bernedoodle’s coat will start thickening again. Moisturizing baths help prevent dry, itchy skin caused by indoor heating.
Fall hikes are fun, but leaves, burrs, and twigs can get tangled in their fur, so brushing after outdoor play helps prevent mats. Gradually allowing their coat to grow out prepares them for the colder months ahead.
Bernedoodle Haircuts: Choosing the Right Look for Your Pup
A good haircut isn’t just about style—it helps manage shedding, prevents matting, and keeps your Bernedoodle comfortable. The best cut depends on coat type, lifestyle, and the season. Here are some popular styles to consider:
Teddy bear cut: This fan-favorite keeps the fur fluffy and rounded, giving your pup a soft, stuffed-animal look. It works well year-round but needs regular trims to stay neat.
Winter cut: A longer coat provides extra warmth but requires more brushing to prevent mats. This style is great for colder months, especially for Bernedoodles who spend time outdoors.
Summer cut: This short, practical trim helps keep your pup cool while reducing dirt and debris buildup. It’s perfect for active dogs who love running through grass, mud, and water.
Kennel cut: A super short cut that’s easy to maintain, making it ideal for dogs that spend time in kennels or for owners who prefer minimal grooming upkeep.
Creative styles: Want your Bernedoodle to stand out? A mohawk or lion cut adds a bit of personality. While not the most practical, these styles can be a fun way to switch things up.
Common Bernedoodle Grooming Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them!)
Even the most well-intentioned dog owners can run into grooming mishaps. Bernedoodles have unique coat needs, and small mistakes can lead to big problems like matting, skin irritation, and discomfort.
Here’s what to watch out for and how to keep your pup looking and feeling their best.
Skipping brushing days = Matting disaster
Mats don’t just make your Bernedoodle’s coat look messy—they can be painful. Skipping a few days of brushing might not seem like a big deal, but knots form quickly, especially in curly coats. A few minutes of brushing daily or at least a few times a week prevents painful tangles.
Using the wrong shampoo = Dry, irritated skin
Not all shampoos are dog-friendly, and even some pet shampoos can be too harsh. Bernedoodles, especially those with curly coats, need a moisturizing formula to prevent dryness. Stick to gentle, sulfate-free dog shampoos to keep their skin healthy.
Neglecting ear care = Infections waiting to happen
Bernedoodles have floppy ears, which trap moisture and create the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast. If ears aren’t cleaned regularly, infections can develop. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and check for redness or bad odors, which could signal a problem.
Trimming too short in winter = A shivering pup
A super short haircut may be easy to manage, but it’s not ideal for cold Pennsylvania winters. A longer winter cut keeps your Bernedoodle warm while still being manageable with regular brushing. If you prefer a shorter cut, consider a doggy sweater for added warmth.
Forgetting flea and tick prevention = A big mistake in wooded areas
Pennsylvania’s wooded areas and grassy parks are hotspots for fleas and ticks. Skipping prevention treatments puts your Bernedoodle at risk for itchy bites and diseases. Regular flea and tick treatments keep these pests away, even in colder months.
Stellie Doodles: Raising Happy, Healthy Pups
At Stellie Doodles, we raise happy, well-socialized Bernedoodles right in our home in Central Pennsylvania.
With plenty of space to play and hands-on care from day one, our puppies grow up loved and well-prepared for family life. Using early neurological stimulation (ENS) and a specialized puppy curriculum, we help them develop confidence and adaptability.
When you bring home a Stellie Doodles puppy, you’re not just getting a pet—you’re gaining a loyal companion raised with care and intention. We keep you updated throughout the process and are always here to answer questions. Call today to reserve your future best friend!
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