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Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Shed​?

The Great Shedding Mystery: Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Shed? 🐾

By Shane WatsonPublished 11 months ago 6 min read

Have you ever wondered why your fluffy Bernese Mountain Dog leaves a trail of fur wherever they go? Or maybe you’re thinking about bringing one of these gentle giants into your home but are worried about the fur situation. Well, you’re in the right place! Today, we’re diving deep into the world of Bernese Mountain Dogs and their shedding secrets. Get ready for a furry adventure filled with surprises, tips, and maybe even a few laughs!

What is a Bernese Mountain Dog? 🐶

Before we talk about shedding, let’s meet the star of the show: the Bernese Mountain Dog! These big, beautiful dogs come from the Swiss Alps, where they were originally used to help farmers with their work. They’re known for their thick, shiny coats, which are black with white and rust-colored markings. Bernese Mountain Dogs are super friendly, loyal, and great with families. But here’s the thing—their gorgeous coats come with a price: shedding!

The Big Question: Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Shed? 🧐

Yes, Bernese Mountain Dogs shed—a lot! If you’re thinking about getting one of these fluffy friends, you need to be ready for fur, fur, and more fur. Their thick double coat is perfect for keeping them warm in the snowy mountains, but it also means they lose hair all year round. And during shedding season? Watch out! It’s like a fur explosion!

Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Shed So Much? 🤔

Let’s break it down. Bernese Mountain Dogs have a double coat, which means they have two layers of fur:

  • Top Coat: This is the longer, shinier fur you see on the outside. It helps protect them from dirt and water.
  • Undercoat: This is the soft, fluffy layer underneath. It keeps them warm in cold weather.

Because of this double coat, Bernese Mountain Dogs shed more than dogs with just one layer of fur. They also shed more during certain times of the year, like spring and fall, when they’re getting ready for the changing seasons. This is called “blowing their coat,” and it’s when they lose the most fur.

Shedding Season: When Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Shed the Most? 🍂❄️

If you’ve ever seen a Bernese Mountain Dog during shedding season, you know it’s a sight to behold! They shed the most in the spring and fall. In the spring, they lose their thick winter coat to stay cool in the summer. In the fall, they grow a new, thicker coat to prepare for the cold winter months. During these times, you might find clumps of fur all over your house, your clothes, and even your food (yikes!).

How Much Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Shed? 🐾

A lot! Bernese Mountain Dogs are heavy shedders, which means they lose a lot of hair every day. If you’re someone who likes a spotless house, you might need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. But don’t worry—there are ways to manage the shedding (we’ll get to that later!).

Bernese Mountain Dog Shedding vs. Other Dogs 🐕

You might be wondering how Bernese Mountain Dogs compare to other breeds when it comes to shedding. Let’s take a look:

Golden Retrievers: Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Golden Retrievers are heavy shedders, but Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thicker coat, which means they might shed a bit more.

German Shepherds: German Shepherds also have a double coat and shed a lot, but Bernese Mountain Dogs might shed more because of their longer fur.

Poodles: Poodles are known for being low-shedding dogs. If you’re looking for a dog that doesn’t shed much, a Bernese Mountain Dog might not be the best choice.

Do Mini Bernese Mountain Dogs Shed? 🐾

Mini Bernese Mountain Dogs, also known as Bernedoodles (a mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle), are becoming more popular. The good news is that they usually shed less than purebred Bernese Mountain Dogs because they inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding coat. But keep in mind—every dog is different, and some Bernedoodles might still shed a bit.

Can You Stop a Bernese Mountain Dog from Shedding? 🛑

The short answer? No. Shedding is a natural process, and you can’t stop it completely. But don’t worry—there are ways to manage it and keep your home (mostly) fur-free. Here are some tips:

  • Brush, Brush, Brush: Regular brushing is the best way to control shedding. Use a slicker brush or an undercoat rake to remove loose fur before it ends up on your furniture.
  • Bathe Your Dog: Bathing your Bernese Mountain Dog every few months can help remove loose fur and keep their coat healthy.
  • Feed Them a Healthy Diet: A good diet can help keep your dog’s coat shiny and reduce shedding.
  • Vacuum Often: Invest in a good vacuum cleaner and get ready to use it a lot!
  • Use a Lint Roller: Keep a lint roller handy for quick clean-ups on your clothes and furniture.

The Emotional Side of Shedding: Love and Fur 💕

Let’s be honest—shedding can be frustrating. But for many Bernese Mountain Dog owners, the love and joy these dogs bring far outweigh the hassle of cleaning up fur. Plus, there’s something special about finding a little piece of your furry friend wherever you go. It’s like they’re always with you, even when they’re not!

Shocking Shedding Secrets You Didn’t Know! 🤯

Did you know that some Bernese Mountain Dogs shed so much that their fur can be used to make yarn? That’s right—some crafty dog owners collect their dog’s fur and spin it into yarn to make sweaters, scarves, and even blankets! Talk about recycling!

Another fun fact: Bernese Mountain Dogs aren’t the only animals that shed. Cats, rabbits, and even some birds lose their fur or feathers too. Shedding is just a natural part of life for many animals.

Bernese Mountain Dog Shedding Myths Busted! 🚫

There are a lot of myths out there about Bernese Mountain Dogs and shedding. Let’s set the record straight:

  • Myth: Bernese Mountain Dogs don’t shed much.
  • Truth: They shed a lot, especially during shedding season.
  • Myth: Shaving your Bernese Mountain Dog will stop shedding.
  • Truth: Shaving can actually harm their coat and make shedding worse.
  • Myth: Only long-haired dogs shed.
  • Truth: Even short-haired dogs shed, but long-haired dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to shed more.

The Secret History of Bernese Mountain Dog Shedding 🕵️‍♀️

Did you know that Bernese Mountain Dogs have been shedding for centuries? Back in the Swiss Alps, their thick coats were essential for surviving the cold winters. Farmers didn’t mind the shedding because it meant their dogs were healthy and ready for work. Today, we might not need our Bernese Mountain Dogs to pull carts or herd cattle, but their shedding is still a reminder of their hardworking heritage.

How to Deal with Bernese Mountain Dog Shedding: A Step-by-Step Guide 📝

If you’re ready to take on the challenge of Bernese Mountain Dog shedding, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:

  • Step 1: Get the Right Tools – Invest in a good brush, vacuum cleaner, and lint roller.
  • Step 2: Brush Your Dog Regularly – Aim for at least 2-3 times a week, and more during shedding season.
  • Step 3: Bathe Your Dog – Use a dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat healthy.
  • Step 4: Clean Your Home – Vacuum and dust regularly to keep fur under control.
  • Step 5: Love Your Dog – Remember, shedding is just a small part of having a Bernese Mountain Dog. The love and joy they bring are worth it!

Final Thoughts: Is a Bernese Mountain Dog Right for You? 🤗

If you’re okay with a little (or a lot) of fur, a Bernese Mountain Dog could be the perfect addition to your family. They’re loving, loyal, and great with kids. Just be prepared for the shedding—it’s all part of the package!

So, do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed? Yes, they do. But with a little patience and a lot of love, you can handle it. And who knows? You might even come to love those little furballs as much as you love your furry friend!

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About the Creator

Shane Watson

My name is Shane Watson and I am a writer who loves sharing insights through engaging and informative articles. With a keen interest in pets I enjoys exploring topics that help pet owners better understand and care for their pets

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