One of the most common questions we get from families at Double U Doodles is about grooming. And honestly, we totally understand why! Those adorable, fluffy teddy bear coats that make Bernedoodles so irresistible also come with some real maintenance requirements. The truth is, grooming isn’t just about keeping your doodle looking cute (though that’s definitely a nice bonus). It’s essential for their health, comfort, and overall well-being. So let’s dive into everything you need to know about how often you should groom your Bernedoodle.

Why Grooming Really Matters 

We’ve seen what happens when grooming gets neglected, and it’s not pretty. Here’s why staying on top of it is so important:

• Mat prevention is crucial: Those gorgeous wavy and curly coats can turn into a matted mess faster than you’d think. Mats aren’t just unsightly, they’re genuinely painful for your dog and can trap dirt and moisture, leading to skin infections.
• Healthy skin and coat: Regular brushing distributes those natural oils throughout their coat, keeping everything shiny and healthy-looking.
• Your dog’s comfort: Nobody wants overgrown nails digging into their paw pads or ears so dirty they’re constantly scratching.
• Early problem detection: You’d be surprised how often regular grooming helps catch skin issues, lumps, or hot spots before they become bigger problems.
• Bonding time: This one might sound cheesy, but we’ve watched countless families develop stronger relationships with their doodles through consistent, gentle grooming routines.

We actually start our puppies with gentle grooming exposure early on, so they come to your family already comfortable with being handled and brushed.

The Real Grooming Schedule You Need

Here’s what we recommend based on years of experience with Bernedoodles:

• Brushing: At least 3-4 times per week, though daily is ideal for curly coats 
• Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks (or when they’ve gotten into something they shouldn’t have)
• Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks without fail 
• Nail trimming: Every 3-4 weeks 
• Ear cleaning: Weekly checks, cleaning as needed 
• Teeth brushing: 2-3 times weekly for good dental health

This might sound like a lot at first, but most families find that once they get into a rhythm, it becomes second nature.

Coat Types Make a Difference

Not every Bernedoodle has the same grooming needs. We help families understand their puppy’s coat type from day one.

Wavy coats (the most common) need brushing every few days and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. They’re more forgiving than curly coats but still prone to tangles. 

Curly coats require daily brushing to prevent mats and regular professional care every 6-8 weeks. They’re higher maintenance but also tend to shed the least. 

Straight coats are often considered he easiest to maintain with weekly brushing, though they may shed a bit more than their wavy and curly cousins. Professional grooming can be stretched to every 8-10 weeks.

What You Can Handle at Home

You don’t need to be a professional groomer to keep your doodle looking good between salon visits, just some basic tools and knowledge:

• Daily brushing: Use a good slicker brush and a metal comb. Work in sections, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Don’t forget those trouble spots behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
• Bath time: Always brush first, wet tangles become impossible mats. Use a gentle dog shampoo and make sure you rinse thoroughly. Any leftover product can irritate their skin.
• Drying: Air drying often leads to new mats forming. A high-velocity dog dryer works best, and brush while you dry to keep your dog’s coat smooth.
• Basic maintenance: Keep up with nails, ears, and teeth between professional visits.

When to Call in the Professionals

Even the most dedicated at-home grooming routine isn’t enough. Professional groomers have the skills and tools to handle those hard-to-reach mats, proper nail care, and thorough ear cleaning.

We recommend professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Popular styles include the classic teddy bear cut (that rounded, fluffy look everyone loves) or shorter summer trims for more active dogs.

Since our puppies are introduced to grooming early, they typically do well at their first professional appointments.

Common Mistakes We See

Over the years, we’ve noticed some patterns in grooming mistakes:

• Waiting too long between brushing sessions: Mats form quickly, especially after baths or outdoor adventures
• Bathing before brushing: Water makes existing tangles much worse
• Skipping professional appointments: Even the best home care can’t replace professional cuts and deep cleaning
• Using human products: Dog skin has different pH needs than human skin
• Forgetting about nails and ears: Both are essential for comfort and health

Different Life Stages, Different Needs

Puppies: Start brushing a few times a week to build positive associations. They don’t need full professional grooming yet, but gentle handling visits are great for socialization.

Adults: Stick to that regular schedule we outlined above. This is when consistency really pays off.

Seniors: Shorter, gentler sessions work best for older dogs. Comfort becomes the top priority over perfect appearance.

The Bottom Line

Grooming a Bernedoodle properly means brushing several times a week, bathing every 4-6 weeks, and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. It’s more work than some breeds, but the payoff is a healthy, comfortable, gorgeous dog that truly looks like a living teddy bear.

At Double U Doodles, we’re not just here for the puppy adoption process. We provide ongoing support to help your family succeed with your new doodle, including guidance on grooming routines that work for your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you groom a Bernedoodle?
Brush several times weekly, bathe monthly, and schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.

Can I groom my Bernedoodle at home?
You can handle daily brushing, baths, and basic maintenance at home, but professional cuts and thorough cleanings are still necessary.

Do Bernedoodles shed much?
Most shed very little, especially those with wavy or curly coats, but this means all that loose hair stays in their coat and needs to be brushed out regularly.

What’s the best haircut for a Bernedoodle?
The teddy bear cut is popular for good reason, but shorter cuts work well for summer or very active dogs.

When should I start grooming my Bernedoodle puppy?
Start gentle brushing as soon as you bring your puppy home. Professional visits can begin around 4-6 months for positive early experiences.