Bernedoodles are a delightful mix of personality, charm, and fluff, but their coats sometimes feel like a full-time job. With their unique blend of curls, waves, and everything in between, finding the right haircut can make all the difference for you and your dog.
In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite low-maintenance haircuts that keep your Bernedoodle looking sharp and stylish without the daily struggle. From cuts that capture that adorable teddy bear look to those that are as easy as they are chic, these picks will help you keep your furry friend comfortable and fabulous, no matter the season.
Understanding the Bernedoodle Coat: What Makes It Unique?
Bernedoodles are known for their wonderfully unique coats, which are as diverse as the breed. With a mix of Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle genetics, their coats can range from wavy to curly, and their texture can vary from soft and silky to dense and woolly. This variety makes Bernedoodles unique, but it also means that grooming needs can differ significantly from dog to dog.
The coat type largely depends on the generation and the specific traits inherited from their parents. Some Bernedoodles will have a straighter, more manageable coat that resembles the Bernese side. In contrast, others may inherit the tight curls of a Poodle, which can be prone to matting if not adequately maintained. Regardless of the type, all Bernedoodle coats tend to be thick and have a natural tendency to trap dirt and debris, making regular grooming a must.
Understanding your Bernedoodle's coat type is vital to choosing the right haircut and grooming routine. While the wavy or curly coats might require more frequent brushing to prevent tangles and mats, they also offer the chance to play with various stylish cuts that suit your dog’s personality and lifestyle. Knowing what kind of coat your Bernedoodle has, you can make informed decisions that keep them looking great and feeling comfortable all year round.
The Best Brushes for Your Bernedoodle: Groomer's Recommendations
Keeping your Bernedoodle’s coat in top shape starts with the right tools; not all brushes are created equal. Their coats' unique texture and density mean that some brushes will work better than others in keeping tangles and mats at bay. Here are the brushes that I always recommend for Bernedoodle owners to make grooming more manageable and more effective:
A Slicker Brush
The slicker brush is a must-have for any Bernedoodle owner. Its fine, tightly-packed wire bristles are perfect for working through tangles and preventing mats, especially in curly or wavy coats. A slicker brush can reach the undercoat, removing loose hair and debris that might otherwise get trapped and cause problems later. It’s gentle enough for regular use and is excellent for a quick once-over to keep your dog looking neat.
Groomer’s Tip: Use the slicker brush in small sections, starting from the bottom and working your way up. This method helps avoid pulling on your dog’s skin and ensures a thorough brushing session.
A Metal Comb
A sturdy metal comb is indispensable for Bernedoodle grooming, especially around areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar. A comb lets you get closer to the skin to identify any small tangles or mats the brush might have missed. It's also great for fluffing out the coat to check for hidden trouble spots.
Groomer’s Tip: Start with the wide-tooth side of the comb for initial detangling, then switch to the narrow side for finer work. Always be gentle, and never tug on knots; work them out slowly to avoid causing pain.
A De-matting Tool
A de-matting tool can be a lifesaver for occasional mats that won’t budge. Its sharp, curved blades are designed to safely cut through stubborn tangles without harming your dog’s skin. It’s not something you’ll use every day, but it’s essential for keeping your Bernedoodle’s coat manageable, especially if you opt for a longer style.
Groomer’s Tip: Always use a de-matting tool carefully, working from the tip of the mat toward the base. Hold the mat firmly to prevent pulling on your dog’s skin.
Flea Comb for Cleaning Eye Build-Up
A flea comb is an unexpectedly helpful tool for keeping your Bernedoodle’s face clean and clear of eye discharge. With its tightly spaced teeth, a flea comb is perfect for gently removing any gunk or tear stains that can accumulate around your dog’s eyes. Regular use of a flea comb not only helps maintain a clean appearance but also prevents irritation and discomfort that can come from built-up debris.
Groomer’s Tip: Dampen the area around the eyes with a soft cloth or cotton pad before using the flea comb. This softens any crusty build-up, making it easier to remove without pulling on the delicate skin around the eyes.
Having the right brushes can make a difference in maintaining your Bernedoodle’s coat and keeping grooming sessions stress-free. Investing in these essential tools and using them correctly ensures that your dog looks great and feels comfortable all year round.
Top Haircuts for Your Bernedoodle: Finding the Perfect Style
Finding the perfect haircut for your Bernedoodle is about balancing style and practicality. With their unique coat texture and varying levels of curl or wave, different haircuts can offer both aesthetic appeal and ease of maintenance. The right style can highlight your dog's natural features, keep them comfortable throughout the seasons, and, most importantly, make grooming much more manageable at home.
Teddy Bear Cut Bernedoodle Haircut
The Teddy Bear Cut is a popular favorite for Bernedoodles, offering an adorable, plush look that’s stylish and easy to manage. This haircut keeps the coat at a consistent length of 1 to 2 inches, creating a soft, rounded appearance that highlights your Bernedoodle’s natural fluffiness. The even trim enhances their sweet, expressive face while maintaining a cute, cuddly shape that will draw attention.
Maintenance Level: Moderate. The Teddy Bear Cut is relatively low-maintenance but requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting, especially around areas prone to friction like the legs and under the belly. A professional grooming session every 6 to 8 weeks will keep the cut looking neat and tidy.
Notes for Your Groomer:
Ask for an all-over trim to 1 to 2-inch comb cut for a balanced, fluffy look that is easy to maintain.
Request a slightly rounded trim around the face to enhance your Bernedoodle’s natural expression while avoiding too much bulk around the muzzle.
Groomer’s Tip: Use a slicker brush two to three times a week to keep the coat free of tangles and maintain that signature soft, rounded look. Regular conditioning spray can also help keep the coat smooth and reduce the chance of matting.
Best For: The Teddy Bear Cut is ideal for Bernedoodles who love to look charming and well-groomed but need a style that doesn’t require constant upkeep. It’s perfect for those who enjoy frequent outdoor adventures but want to avoid the hassle of excessive grooming.
Puppy (All-Over) Haircut for Bernedoodles
The Puppy, or All-Over Haircut, is a practical and adorable choice that keeps your Bernedoodle looking youthful and well-groomed. This style involves trimming the coat to a uniform length of 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch all over the body, creating a neat, manageable appearance. The head is typically left slightly longer, around 1 inch, to add a touch of softness and roundness, maintaining the charming puppy-like features everyone loves.
Maintenance Level: Low. The Puppy Haircut is one of the easiest cuts to maintain, requiring minimal daily grooming. It’s perfect for busy owners who want their Bernedoodle to look cute without spending too much time on upkeep. A professional grooming session every 6 to 8 weeks will help maintain the desired length and shape.
Notes for Your Groomer:
Request an all-over trim using a 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch comb attachment for a balanced, clean look that is easy to care for.
Ask for the head to be trimmed slightly longer with a 1-inch comb to create soft, rounded features that retain that playful, youthful appearance.
Groomer’s Tip: Brush your Bernedoodle with a slicker brush once or twice weekly to keep the coat smooth and debris-free. Regular ear cleaning and eye care are necessary; the shorter coat won't hide dirt or tear stains.
Best For: The Puppy (All-Over) Haircut is ideal for Bernedoodles who love to stay active and need a no-fuss style that keeps them comfortable in all kinds of weather. It's an excellent choice for puppies or dogs that prefer a simple, easy-to-manage look that still shows their adorable personality.
Lamb Leg Cut for Bernedoodles
The Lamb Leg Cut is a stylish and unique option that adds a touch of flair to your Bernedoodle’s look. This haircut involves trimming the body to a shorter length, typically 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch, while leaving the hair on the legs slightly longer to create a fuller, rounded appearance that mimics the shape of a lamb's legs. The contrast between the shorter body and the fluffier legs gives your Bernedoodle a fun, balanced look that stands out without being overly high-maintenance.
Maintenance Level: Moderate. While the Lamb Leg Cut is relatively easy to maintain, it does require regular brushing to prevent tangling, especially around the legs where the hair is left longer. A professional grooming session every 6 to 8 weeks will keep the look sharp and well-defined.
Notes for Your Groomer:
Ask for the body to be trimmed with a 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch comb for a sleek, clean finish that’s easy to care for.
Request that the legs be left longer and sculpted to a rounded shape using a 1.5-inch comb attachment, enhancing the 'lamb-like' appearance.
Groomer’s Tip: To keep the Lamb Leg Cut looking its best, brush the legs with a slicker brush every few days to maintain their volume and shape. Pay extra attention to the areas around the joints where mats are more likely to form.
Best For: The Lamb Leg Cut is perfect for Bernedoodles who enjoy a bit of extra flair in their style but still need a relatively low-maintenance option. It’s ideal for those who love a unique, playful look that complements their fun-loving personality while keeping them comfortable and groomed.
Summer Cut for Bernedoodles
The Summer Cut is a practical choice for warmer months or for Bernedoodles who love to stay active year-round. This haircut involves trimming the coat to a short length using a # 7 to # 3 blade, giving your dog a cool, lightweight feel that’s easy to manage. The head is kept slightly longer, typically trimmed with a 1/2 to 1-inch comb, and shaped to create a rounded, clean look that maintains some of that signature Bernedoodle charm.
Maintenance Level: Low. The Summer Cut is designed for minimal maintenance, making it perfect for owners who want to reduce grooming time and keep their Bernedoodle comfortable in hot weather. Regular grooming sessions every 6 to 8 weeks will help maintain the short length and rounded shape.
Notes for Your Groomer:
Request a body trim using a # 7 to # 3 blade for a close cut that provides maximum comfort and reduces shedding.
Ask for the head to be left slightly longer and shaped with a 1/2 to 1-inch comb to achieve a soft, rounded look that balances with the shorter body.
Groomer’s Tip: To maintain the neat appearance of the Summer Cut, brush your Bernedoodle weekly to remove any loose hair and debris. Pay attention to their ears and tail, which may still require regular checks and cleaning to prevent buildup or matting.
Best For: The Summer Cut is ideal for Bernedoodles who live in warm climates, have high energy levels, or simply enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle. It’s a great choice for dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors, helping them stay cool and comfortable while keeping their coat clean and manageable.
Which Bernedoodle Haircut Will You Choose?
Teddy Bear Cut
Puppy or All-Over Cut
Lamb Legs Cut
Summer Cut
Choosing the right haircut for your Bernedoodle can make all the difference in keeping them comfortable, stylish, and easy to care for. Whether you prefer the playful look of the Teddy Bear Cut, the simplicity of the Puppy Haircut, the unique flair of the Lamb Leg Cut, or the practicality of the Summer Cut, there’s a perfect style for every dog and owner. Each of these cuts offers a balance of aesthetic appeal and ease of maintenance, allowing you to spend less time grooming and more time enjoying your furry companion.
Remember, the best haircut is one that suits both your Bernedoodle's coat type and your lifestyle needs. Don’t hesitate to discuss your options with your groomer to find the ideal style that brings out the best in your dog. And, as always, regular grooming sessions and a good at-home care routine will keep your Bernedoodle looking and feeling their best, no matter which cut you choose.
Ready to try a new look for your Bernedoodle? Book an appointment with us today and let’s find the perfect style to keep your pup looking fabulous and feeling great all year round!
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