Originating from Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain Dog was brought to the United States in the 1920s for farm work. However, they have now transitioned over time to being beloved family pets. With their distinctive medium-to long-haired double coats, a Bernese Mountain Dog necessitates high maintenance, including regular grooming, to manage their heavy shedding, especially during warmer seasons.
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs easy to maintain?
The Bernese Mountain Dog boasts a stunning, thick, double-layer coat featuring a longer outer coat and a wooly undercoat. Typically tricolored, their jet-black hair with rich rust and bright white markings covers most of their body. However, this beauty comes with shedding, as Berners shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during spring and fall. Therefore, this makes them not too easy to maintain.
These gentle giants hail from the majestic Swiss Alps. Bernese Mountain Dogs are not only majestic but also known for their affectionate and calm temperament. Their intelligence, combined with their ease of training, makes them ideal companions for active families with children.
As previously mentioned, these dogs are famous for heavy shedding, especially in warm weather. Thus, regular brushing and bathing can help control the loose fur.
How often do Bernese Mountain Dogs need to be groomed?
While Bernese Mountain Dogs only need baths every 2-4 weeks with dog shampoo, their thick double coat requires more frequent attention. Therefore, brushing several times a week is essential to prevent matting and manage their heavy shedding. You can try de-shedding tools, as they can be a big help in removing loose undercoats.
Since Berners’ ears can trap moisture, they are prone to ear infections. Ear cleaning is essential to keeping your pup healthy. After swimming or bathing, be sure to gently clean their ears to prevent any moisture buildup.
If you are becoming a dog parent of a Bernese Mountain Dog, you need to remember that their maintenance is not easy, and you have to deal with heavy shedding. Hence, you need to make sure you have a strong vacuum cleaner and plenty of lint rollers.
