Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their heavy shedding, which can be quite challenging for some owners. These large, fluffy dogs have a double coat that sheds significantly throughout the year, with peak shedding seasons in the spring and fall. In this blog post, we’ll explore the extent of Bernese Mountain Dog shedding and provide tips on how to manage it.
Frequency and Seasonality of Bernese Mountain Dog Shedding
Bernese Mountain Dogs shed heavily, particularly during seasonal changes. They “blow their coat” twice a year, once in the spring to shed their winter undercoat and again in the fall to shed their summer coat. This process typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks, during which time the shedding is more pronounced.
In addition to the seasonal shedding, Bernese Mountain Dogs also shed year-round, though the amount of shedding is less noticeable during the non-peak seasons.
Quantity of Shedding
The shedding of a Bernese Mountain Dog is significant due to their double coat, which consists of a thick undercoat and a longer outer coat. This double coat is designed to keep them warm in cold climates, but it also results in heavy shedding.
Owners often describe the shedding as leaving “piles of loose hair” and “tufts of fur everywhere.” The amount of shedding can be overwhelming, with dog hair found on clothes, furniture, and even in food.
Grooming Needs
Regular grooming is essential to manage the shedding of a Bernese Mountain Dog. Brushing 2-3 times a week during peak shedding seasons can help reduce the amount of loose hair. Despite regular grooming, the shedding will still be noticeable, but it will be more manageable.
Some owners find that using a deshedding tool, such as a furminator, can be particularly effective in removing the undercoat and reducing the amount of shedding.
Comparison to Other Breeds
Bernese Mountain Dogs shed more than many other breeds, including Golden Retrievers. Their thick undercoat and longer outer coat contribute to their heavy shedding, making them one of the more challenging breeds when it comes to managing shedding.
Impact on Daily Life
The shedding of a Bernese Mountain Dog can have a significant impact on daily life. Owners often find dog hair on their clothes, furniture, and even in their food. A good vacuum cleaner is highly recommended to keep up with the daily clean-up.
Some owners find that leather furniture helps reduce the amount of dog hair that accumulates, as it is easier to wipe down than fabric surfaces.
Emotional and Practical Considerations
While the shedding can be a challenge, many owners find it worth the effort due to the love and companionship provided by their Bernese Mountain Dogs. Embracing the shedding as part of the dog’s natural process can help make it more manageable.
Ultimately, the decision to own a Bernese Mountain Dog should take into account the significant shedding and the time and effort required to manage it. However, for many owners, the benefits of owning these gentle giants far outweigh the challenges of dealing with their shedding.
References:
- https://www.kevintheberner.com/blog/6-reasons-not-to-get-a-bernese-mountain-dog
- https://www.animalhearted.com/blogs/dogs/bernese-mountain-dog-shedding
- https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/do-bernese-mountain-dogs-shed
Sarah Johnson
Sarah Johnson is a devoted Bernese Mountain Dog enthusiast and regular contributor to Bernese Mountain Dog Pro. With over a decade of experience in raising and training Berners, Sarah brings practical knowledge and passion to her writing. Sarah lives in Colorado with her two Berners, Max and Bella.