Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gorgeous, thick double coats, but with that beauty comes a challenge: shedding. If you're a proud Bernese owner, you’re likely familiar with the battle against fur-covered furniture, clothes, and almost everything else in your home. Shedding is simply a part of life with these lovable, fluffy giants, but it doesn’t have to take over your life.

The good news? With the right grooming tools and consistency, you can keep that shedding under control. As professional groomers, we know that not all brushes are created equal, especially when managing a coat as dense and luxurious as a Bernese’s. In this guide, we’ll walk you through our top 5 favorite brushes in our salon to reduce shedding and keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat looking its best.

Let’s make grooming a bonding experience instead of a chore — and save your vacuum in the process!

Why the Right Brushes Matter for Bernese Mountain Dog Shedding

The right brushes can truly be game-changers when managing the shedding of a Bernese Mountain Dog. These dogs have a dense double coat, which means they’re blessed with a soft undercoat beneath a protective outer layer. While this coat keeps them warm and cozy, especially in colder climates, it also means they’re prone to heavy shedding—especially during seasonal changes.

Loose fur can quickly accumulate without regular grooming, leading to mats, tangles, and an endless trail of fur around your home. But here’s the secret: investing in a few essential brushes can make all the difference. Not only will it keep your pup’s coat healthy and comfortable, but it will also save you time and frustration when cleaning up fur.

In the sections below, we’ll introduce you to our top brush picks, which we trust will keep shedding under control. Each tool serves a unique purpose, from tackling the thick undercoat to smoothing out tangles so you can find the best fit for your grooming routine. Let’s dive into the details so you can brush your Bernese like a pro!

Slicker Brush: The Groomer’s Essential Tool

The slicker brush is an absolute must-have in your grooming toolkit when it comes to reducing Bernese Mountain Dog shedding. This brush features fine, short wires close together on a flat or slightly curved surface, making it perfect for tackling thick coats like a Bernese's.

Why It Works: The slicker brush is designed to reach through the topcoat and pull out loose fur from the dense undercoat, where most shedding occurs. It’s also excellent for removing tangles, small mats, and dirt. By using a slicker brush regularly, you’ll not only reduce shedding but also prevent painful mats from forming.

How to Use It: Start by brushing in sections, especially focusing on high-shedding areas like the chest, hindquarters, and sides. Use gentle, short strokes in the direction of hair growth, being careful not to apply too much pressure. This will help avoid irritation, especially on sensitive spots. If you encounter a knot, use a light, teasing motion to work it out gradually.

Groomer Tip: For best results, follow up with a comb after using the slicker brush to catch any leftover loose fur. And remember, a slicker brush isn’t just for shedding season—using it weekly year-round can keep your Bernese’s coat healthy and reduce the amount of hair left behind on your floors.

Greyhound Comb: The Finishing Touch for a Tangle-Free Coat

After using a slicker brush to tackle the bulk of loose fur, a greyhound comb is the perfect tool for those finishing touches. This long, sturdy metal comb features both wide and fine teeth, making it versatile enough to handle tangles, smooth the coat, and reach any stubborn fur that might have been missed.

Why It Works: The greyhound comb is excellent for detail work and ensures no loose hair is left behind. It’s especially helpful for reaching tricky spots like behind the ears, around the neck, and under the legs, where mats tend to form. Plus, it’s gentle on your Bernese’s skin, making it a great tool after a slicker brush session.

How to Use It: Start with the wider teeth to loosen up tangles, then switch to the finer side to smooth out the coat and ensure a polished finish. Move the comb through the fur in the direction of hair growth, paying close attention to areas that are prone to matting. If you hit a tangle, don’t yank—gently work it out with short strokes.

Groomer Tip: Use the greyhound comb as a quick check after brushing. If it glides through the coat easily, you’ve done a thorough job! Regularly using this comb reduces shedding and helps distribute natural oils, giving your Bernese a healthier, shinier coat.

De-Shedding Rake: Tackling the Thick Undercoat

A de-shedding rake is an absolute game-changer if you’re serious about managing Bernese Mountain Dog shedding. This tool removes loose hair from the thick undercoat without damaging the topcoat, making it perfect for breeds with dense, double-layered fur like the Bernese.

Why It Works: Most of the shedding occurs in the undercoat, especially during seasonal transitions when your Bernese “blows” its coat. The de-shedding rake’s wide, sturdy teeth reach deep into the undercoat, pulling out loose fur before it ends up all over your home. By using it consistently, you can significantly reduce the amount of shedding, especially during spring and fall.

How to Use It: Use the rake gently, working in sections and pulling through the fur in the direction of hair growth. Focus on high-shedding areas like the back, sides, and chest. Be sure to apply light pressure to avoid irritating the skin, especially if your dog has sensitive spots. The goal is to remove loose undercoat fur, not to strip the coat too aggressively.

Groomer Tip: Use the de-shedding rake once or twice a week during heavy shedding periods for best results. Pair it with a slicker brush session to catch any remaining loose hairs. Regular use will reduce shedding and keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat healthier and more manageable year-round.

Mat Splitter: Safely Breaking Up Tough Tangles

When dealing with a thick-coated breed like the Bernese Mountain Dog, it’s not uncommon for mats and tangles to form, especially in areas like the ears, under the legs, and around the collar. This is where a mat splitter becomes an invaluable tool. Designed to break through tough tangles without pulling painfully on your dog’s fur, it can save you time and frustration.

Why It Works: Mats can become painful if left unchecked, pulling on your dog’s skin and potentially leading to irritation or infections. The mat splitter uses sharp, narrow blades to slice through knots, allowing you to loosen the fur without tearing or damaging the coat gently. By keeping mats under control, you’re also helping reduce future shedding, as tangled fur tends to shed more when brushed out.

How to Use It: Gently insert the blade into the mat and use a slow, controlled slicing motion to break it apart. Always work toward hair growth and avoid pulling or yanking, which can hurt your dog. Once you’ve broken up the mat, follow up with a slicker brush or comb to smooth the area.

Groomer Tip: Use the mat splitter sparingly on stubborn tangles that can’t be brushed out with other tools. Regular brushing with a slicker brush and a greyhound comb can help prevent mats from forming in the first place, reducing the need for this tool. And remember, a little patience goes a long way in keeping grooming stress-free for your pup!

Rubber Brush: Gentle Yet Effective for Loose Fur

The rubber brush is a perfect choice when you’re looking for a tool that’s both effective at managing shedding and gentle on your Bernese Mountain Dog’s skin. This brush is made from flexible rubber bristles that remove loose hair and provide a relaxing massage for your dog, making it ideal for quick touch-ups between grooming sessions.

Why It Works: The rubber brush is fantastic for loosening and removing surface-level fur, especially when your Bernese is shedding heavily. Unlike metal brushes, it’s gentle enough to use daily without irritating the skin. It also helps stimulate blood circulation, which promotes a healthier coat. Plus, it can be used during bath time to help distribute shampoo and loosen even more loose hair.

How to Use It: Use the rubber brush in circular motions to lift and remove loose fur from the topcoat. It’s great for more sensitive areas, like the belly and legs, where your dog might not tolerate a slicker brush or rake. It’s also perfect for use in the tub during a bath, as it helps the shampoo penetrate through the thick coat and lifts out shed fur while your pup is wet.

Groomer Tip: For quick grooming sessions between full brush-outs, keep a rubber brush handy. It’s especially useful if your Bernese is nervous about grooming tools; the gentle massage makes it feel more like a treat than a chore. Regularly using it can reduce shedding while keeping your dog’s coat shiny and healthy.

Managing Bernese Mountain Dog shedding can feel like a full-time job, but it's manageable with the right tools and dedication. Each of these brushes—the deep-reaching de-shedding rake or the gentle rubber brush—serves a unique purpose in keeping your dog’s coat healthy, shiny, and under control. By incorporating these tools into a regular grooming routine, you can reduce the amount of fur around your home and ensure your Bernese feels comfortable and happy.

Remember, grooming isn’t just about controlling shedding; it’s also an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog. A consistent grooming schedule, patience, and the proper techniques can make this chore a positive experience for you and your furry friend. So grab your brushes, set aside a little time each week, and enjoy the benefits of a cleaner home and a happier, well-groomed Bernese Mountain Dog!