The Shedding Truth: Bernese Mountain Dogs Uncovered

Bernese Mountain Dogs are loved for their stunning good looks and gentle, easygoing nature. These large and powerful dogs also come with a notable trait - their heavy shedding. This guide will shed some light (no pun intended) on the shedding habits of these beautiful creatures and what you can do to manage it. 

Bernese Mountain Dogs belong to the category of "double-coated" breeds. They have two layers of fur: a dense, insulating undercoat and a longer, protective topcoat. Both layers work in unison to protect the dog from the harsh elements of their Swiss mountainous origins. 

However, this robust double coat has a side effect - the dogs shed, and they shed a lot! Regular and heavy shedding is a characteristic feature of Bernese Mountain Dogs. 

So, just how bad do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed? To put it plainly, if you're considering adopting a Berner (a popular nickname for the breed), prepare for a lot of dog hair around your home. 

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They are not hypoallergenic and shed throughout the year. The shedding gets more intense during the changing seasons, commonly known as "blowing the coat," where they shed their undercoat to adjust to the temperature changes. You'll likely notice more hair around your house during spring and fall.

While the shedding can be overwhelming for some, there are ways to manage it. Regular brushing is a must. Brushing not only helps in controlling the shedding but also keeps the dog's coat healthy and shiny. It also helps distribute natural oils, remove loose hair, and prevent tangles and mats.

A good quality deshedding tool can be a boon for Bernese Mountain Dog owners. They're designed to reach into the dog's undercoat to remove loose hairs before they're shed onto your floor or furniture.

Moreover, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known to love the attention they get during grooming sessions. Regular grooming is not just a maintenance task but also a bonding activity.

Providing a balanced diet and ensuring your dog stays hydrated can also help keep the coat healthy, reducing the possibility of excessive shedding.

It's important to remember that while shedding can be managed to a degree, it cannot be entirely stopped. Shedding is a natural process for these dogs, and if you are considering a Bernese Mountain Dog, you should be prepared to deal with it.

Find out more: How bad do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed

When choosing a Bernese Mountain Dog, shedding is certainly something to consider, especially if you or a family member has allergies. But, keep in mind the many wonderful qualities of this breed - their gentle temperament, intelligence, and absolute loyalty. 

Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog may mean more cleaning up, but for many people, the joy and companionship they bring far outweigh the inconvenience of a little (or a lot) extra dog hair around the house. 

In the end, understanding the shedding habits and grooming needs of Bernese Mountain Dogs can prepare potential owners for what to expect. This knowledge can lead to a more enjoyable, and less hairy, cohabitation experience. 

While they do require some work to keep their shedding under control, Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredible pets. With the right preparation and mindset, the shedding can become just another aspect of life with these lovely dogs.