The Ultimate Guide to Trimming Your Bernese Mountain Dog

Grooming a Bernese Mountain Dog involves several key steps, particularly when it comes to trimming. From the proper tools to the frequency of trimming, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat and paws looking their best.

Tools Needed for Trimming

Trimming your Bernese Mountain Dog requires a specific set of tools to ensure the process is safe and effective. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Blades and Shears:
2. For trimming the pads of the feet, use a close-cutting action blade ranging from a #15 to a #40.
3. Thinning shears are useful for tidying up the fur around the feet and sanitary areas.

4. Small detailing shears can be used to tidy the outside edge of the feet.

5. Brushes and Combs:

6. A sturdy pin and bristle brush, a slicker brush, and a wide-toothed comb are essential for detangling and brushing the coat.

7. Other Tools:

8. Cotton pads for cleaning the ears and eyes.
9. Canine ear-cleaning solution.
10. Nail clippers for trimming nails.

How to Trim Bernese Mountain Dog Feet

Trimming your Bernese Mountain Dog’s feet is an essential part of their grooming routine. Here’s how to do it:

1. Trimming the Pads:

2. Use a close-cutting action blade (#15 to #40) to trim the pads of the feet. Apply a very light touch to clean the pads of long hair.

3. Trimming Between the Toes:

4. Back brush the fur between the toes so it stands up and away from the foot.

5. Use thinning shears to trim off the excess, creating a neat and natural-looking foot with well-arched toes.

6. Tidying the Feet:

7. Use small detailing shears to tidy the outside edge of the foot if needed. A #4F blade used in reverse can also be effective for trimming the tops of the feet and the hocks.

How to Trim Bernese Mountain Dog Legs

Trimming your Bernese Mountain Dog’s legs is another important aspect of their grooming routine. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Detail Trim:

2. A detail trim involves tidying up the fur on the legs but not shaving. This helps maintain the natural appearance and prevents damage to the coat.

3. Sanitary Area:

4. If there is a sanitary issue under the tail or in the groin area, lightly trim this area with thinning shears. Be cautious not to remove too much fur, especially in the groin area, to avoid skin irritation.

General Grooming Tips

In addition to trimming, there are several other grooming practices you should incorporate into your Bernese Mountain Dog’s routine:

1. Brushing:

2. Brush your Bernese Mountain Dog regularly, ideally every day or every other day, to prevent tangles and mats. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently loosen tangles.

3. Bathing:

4. Bathe your Bernese Mountain Dog every 4-8 weeks, with more frequent bathing during shedding seasons. Use a hypo-allergenic shampoo if necessary, followed by a conditioner to keep the coat hydrated.

5. Ear and Eye Care:

6. Clean the ears regularly with a canine ear-cleaning solution and use an eye wash to flush out any foreign matter.

7. Coat Care:

8. Never clip or shave the coat of a Bernese Mountain Dog unless for medical reasons. The double coat helps regulate their body temperature.

Frequency of Trimming

Knowing how often to trim your Bernese Mountain Dog is crucial for maintaining their appearance and overall health. Here’s a general guideline:

1. Feet Trimming:

2. Trim the feet as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks, depending on how quickly the hair grows between the toes and on the pads.

3. Leg Trimming:

4. A detail trim around the legs can be done every 6-8 weeks, or as needed to maintain a neat appearance.

Additional Tips

• Avoid Shaving: Shaving can damage the coat and disrupt the dog’s natural temperature regulation system.
• Use Proper Tools: Always use the right tools to avoid causing harm to your dog. For example, use thinning shears carefully to avoid cutting the skin.
• Regular Grooming: Regular grooming sessions help in maintaining the health and appearance of your Bernese Mountain Dog. It also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.

References

1. How to Groom Your Bernese Mountain Dog – YouTube
2. How to Groom a Bernese Mountain Dog – Groomers University
3. Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming: 15 Expert Tips – Dogster
4. What are the grooming requirements for a Bernese Mountain Dog? – Reddit
5. Bernese Mountain Dog grooming, bathing and care – Espree