Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Moult?

Yes, Bernese Mountain Dogs do moult, and they are known for their significant shedding. These large, fluffy dogs have a double coat that requires regular grooming to manage the excessive hair loss.

The Double Coat of Bernese Mountain Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a distinctive double coat that is the primary reason for their heavy shedding. The outer coat is long, coarse, and weather-resistant, while the undercoat is soft and dense. This double coat helps insulate the dog and protect it from the elements, but it also means that the dog will shed a significant amount of hair throughout the year.

Seasonal Shedding Patterns

Bernese Mountain Dogs experience two main shedding seasons each year, typically in the spring and fall. During these times, the dog will “blow” its coat, meaning it will shed its thick winter coat to make way for a lighter summer coat, or vice versa.

Spring Shedding

As the weather warms up in the spring, Bernese Mountain Dogs will begin to shed their thick, insulating winter coat. This process can be quite dramatic, with large clumps of hair coming out during brushing sessions. The dog’s coat will gradually become lighter and more manageable for the warmer months.

Fall Shedding

In the fall, as the weather starts to cool, Bernese Mountain Dogs will begin to shed their summer coat and grow a thicker, warmer winter coat. This shedding process can be just as intense as the spring shedding, with the dog losing a significant amount of hair.

Grooming Needs

To manage the shedding of a Bernese Mountain Dog, regular grooming is essential. These dogs require daily brushing to remove loose hair and prevent it from accumulating in the home. Owners should use a combination of tools, such as a pin brush, slicker brush, and undercoat rake, to effectively groom their Bernese Mountain Dog.

Brushing Frequency

During the heavy shedding seasons, owners may need to brush their Bernese Mountain Dog daily or even multiple times per day to keep up with the amount of hair being shed. Outside of the shedding seasons, brushing a few times per week is generally sufficient to maintain the dog’s coat.

Bathing

Bathing a Bernese Mountain Dog can also help manage shedding, as it can remove loose hair and distribute the dog’s natural oils throughout the coat. However, it’s important not to bathe the dog too frequently, as this can strip the coat of its natural oils and lead to skin irritation.

Impact on the Home

The shedding of a Bernese Mountain Dog can have a significant impact on the home environment. These dogs can leave behind large amounts of hair on furniture, floors, and clothing, which can be challenging to clean up. Owners may need to invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner and regularly clean their home to keep the hair under control.

Allergy Considerations

For individuals with allergies, the shedding of a Bernese Mountain Dog can be particularly problematic. The dog’s hair and dander can trigger allergic reactions, and owners may need to take additional measures to manage the allergens in their home.

Minimizing Shedding

While Bernese Mountain Dogs will always shed to some degree, there are steps owners can take to minimize the amount of hair in their home:

1. Brush regularly: Consistent, daily brushing can help remove loose hair before it ends up on furniture and floors.
2. Bathe occasionally: Bathing the dog every 4-6 weeks can help remove excess hair and distribute the natural oils in the coat.
3. Use a deshedding tool: Tools like undercoat rakes and deshedding brushes can be particularly effective at removing the dog’s dense undercoat.
4. Vacuum frequently: Regular vacuuming, especially in high-traffic areas, can help keep the hair under control.
5. Consider a groomer: Professional grooming sessions every 6-8 weeks can help manage the shedding and keep the dog’s coat in top condition.

Conclusion

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their significant shedding, which is a result of their distinctive double coat. While the shedding can be a challenge for owners, regular grooming and proper management can help minimize the impact on the home environment. Potential owners should be aware of the shedding requirements and be prepared to commit to the ongoing maintenance required to keep a Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat healthy and under control.

Reference:
– Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming: Everything You Need to Know
– Bernese Mountain Dog Shedding: What to Expect
– Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Information