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Shedding Characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain standing infornt of suburban house

Bernese Mountain Dogs, with their long, thick, and luxurious coat, are indeed known for shedding. Shedding is a natural process in which a dog's old or damaged hair is replaced by new growth. While Berners have a stunning coat, it requires regular grooming and can result in noticeable shedding. Let's delve into the shedding characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog.


Does a Bernese Mountain Dog Shed? Yes, Bernese Mountain Dogs do shed, and they can shed quite a bit. Their double coat consists of a dense, soft undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat. The undercoat helps insulate them from cold weather, while the outer coat provides protection from the elements. Both layers of their coat shed, although the undercoat tends to shed more significantly, especially during seasonal changes.

  • Shedding Seasons: Bernese Mountain Dogs typically have two major shedding seasons, often referred to as "blowing their coat." The first shedding season occurs in the spring as they lose their winter undercoat to prepare for warmer weather. The second shedding season is in the fall as they shed their summer coat to make way for a thicker winter coat. During these periods, you can expect increased shedding.
  • Regular Maintenance: To manage shedding in Bernese Mountain Dogs, regular grooming is essential. Brushing their coat several times a week helps remove loose and dead hair, preventing it from accumulating around your home. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary to keep their coat in good condition.
  • Baths and Proper Diet: Regular baths with a high-quality dog shampoo can also help minimise shedding by keeping the skin and coat healthy. Additionally, providing a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can promote healthy coat growth, potentially reducing excessive shedding.
  • Shedding Control Tools: Consider using shedding control tools like deshedding brushes or combs specifically designed for double-coated breeds. These tools can be effective in removing loose hair and reducing shedding.
  • Year-Round Shedding: While shedding is most noticeable during seasonal transitions, Bernese Mountain Dogs do shed some hair year-round. If you are sensitive to pet allergies or prefer minimal shedding, it's essential to be prepared for regular grooming and cleaning to manage their coat effectively.


In summary, Bernese Mountain Dogs do shed, and their thick double coat requires consistent grooming to keep shedding in check. With proper care and attention, you can manage their shedding and enjoy the company of these majestic dogs without being overwhelmed by excess hair around your home.

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