So do Bernese Mountain dogs shed? Bernese Mountain dogs tend to shed moderately throughout the year because they are large-sized dogs with thick fur.
This is not one of the right breeds if you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog. However, you can raise them as great family companions and try to reduce shedding by brushing.
The Bernese Mountain is a patient, calm, and affectionate dog. These dogs easily train and get along well with humans and other pets.
Their intelligence and friendly personalities make them great family pets.
If you are thinking of adding a Bernese Mountain dog to your family, you need to consider the amount of shedding.
You will also need to be ready for regular brushing and grooming to keep your furry friend’s coat in good condition.
If you are wondering whether or not Bernese Mountain Dogs shed, you have come to the right place. This article will discuss everything you need to know about their shedding.
We will also discuss what you can do to combat their shedding. Keep reading to learn more about this adorable dog breed.
History Of The Bernese Mountain Dog
As the name suggests, the Bernese Mountain originates from the mountain of Bern, Switzerland. They were essential members of farming families in the mountains.
They were trusted and trained to protect farms and livestock. Besides, they worked on the farms driving carts. These dogs have a reputation for companionship and strength.
The Bernese Mountain dogs have been around for many years, even before machine farming equipment existed. Many farmers relied on their strength to operate different tools on their farms.
Their large sizes also made them ideal for scaring off thieves and predators.
The breed made its way to the United States of America in the mid-1920s, becoming a favorite for many farmers.
They were recognized by the America Kennel Club (AKC) in 1937. To date, they are still popular working dogs. They are also becoming more popular as great family companions.
Bernese Mountain Dog Coat
One of the reasons why the Bernese Mountain dogs are a favorite for many is because of their beautiful, thick, fluffy long coats.
While they are mainly black, they are known for their distinct white bellies, snouts, chests, and paws. They also tend to have a white line between their eyes to the forehead.
These adorable dogs have tan markings around their legs and mouth. They also have incredibly adorable tan eyebrows. In addition, they have thick, double coats.
The outer coat is long and sleek, while the undercoat is wooly and dense. The long outer coat is usually fluffy and soft.
What Factors Can Increase Shedding In A Bernese Mountain Dog?
Several factors can increase shedding in your Bernese Mountain dog. Here are some of them.
Stage Of Life
One major factor that affects shedding in Bernese Mountain dogs is age or stage of life.
Generally, Bernese Mountain puppies tend to shed much less than adults. However, that should not fool you, as puppies can shed more if not groomed and brushed.
When your puppy starts to get older, it will start losing its puppy fur. At this time, they will shed more and will need more coat maintenance. When they reach adulthood, they tend to shed more regularly.
Shedding Season
The shedding season in dogs usually happens two times a year. It helps the dog to regulate its body temperature throughout the year.
They usually occur during the change of seasons from summer to winter and from winter to summer.
During these seasons, your Bernese Mountain dog will shed its coat to make room for the next one to grow.
Your furry friend will no longer need the super thick, warm undercoat during the transition from winter to summer.
They will shed the dense fur to create room for a lighter, breezier coat that keeps them cool throughout the summer months.
As winter comes in, they will shed the thin coat, and the thick one will grow again. You will notice a dramatic increase in your dog’s shedding during the two seasons.
Diet And Exercise
The health of any dog starts from the inside out. Proper exercise and diet are vital in all dog breeds, although they are more important in some breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog.
This breed is usually bred for a hardworking and active lifestyle. Therefore, it will need the right diet to keep up with its body’s needs.
If your furry friend lacks vital nutrients, its skin and coat may show some imbalances. Its fur may start to turn course and brittle. It will also start falling off abnormally.
The same goes for exercise. A Bernese Mountain Dog that is overweight or underweight can show signs of unhealthy fur and skin.
Therefore, you will need to be in contact with your vet to get your furry friend on the right diet and exercise routine.
Pests And Skin Conditions
Pets can lead to skin irritations, making your pet lose more fur than normal. The common pests in Bernese Mountain Dogs are ticks and fleas.
They can cause excessive scratching and licking. Other pets, such as mites and biting flies, can lead to irritation and even carry diseases that can lead to abnormal hair loss.
They can also cause other skin conditions that can be contagious and dangerous. If you notice your Bernese Mountain Dog scratching or licking a certain area and shedding more than normal, you should look for signs of pests.
Stress And Anxiety
The Bernese Mountain is naturally a more anxious breed of dog. Your dog may suffer separation anxiety if left alone at home.
Shedding is a common symptom of a stressed-out and anxious dog. Routine changes can easily lead to stress. This may include welcoming a new pet or not spending enough time with the family.
Bernese Mountain Dog Shedding Management And Tips
Like any other heavy-shedding dog breed, your Bernese Mountain Dog will need an effective grooming routine.
If you do not manage monthly bathing and daily brushing during the shedding seasons, you can consider a Bernedoodles, which mixes a Poodle with a Bernese Mountain Dog.
If you are ready to deal with your furry friend’s shedding habits, follow the following tips.
Brushing
Your dogs must be brushed about three or four times a week during the normal shedding seasons.
You can use a longer pin brush since a bristle brush will not get the depth you need to keep the coat flowing and tangle-free.
You can get into the undercoat with a longer pin brush during brushing sessions. Here is where there is a lot of dead dog fur.
You will need to brush your dog daily during the summer and winter shedding seasons.
Bathing
While bathing is good, you should not bathe your Bernese Mountain Dog more than once per month.
Your pet will need a bath after a romp in grass, leaves, or mud. Bathing them several times a month will dry out their skin. It can also deplete the natural oils their coats need to stay healthy.
Since their coats are long and dense, they are more likely to develop an odor. Therefore, bathing will help keep their coats smelling fresh.
Diet
Many dog handlers tend to ignore diet when it comes to the coat health of their pets. However, diet plays a major role in the general health of a dog’s coat.
Giving Bernese Mountain Dogs foods rich in Omega Fatty Acids will ensure their coats stay healthy and shiny. You can also look for grain-free foods to keep their coats healthy.
Shampoo
We do not recommend using an Anti-Shed formula unless you are brushing your furry friend regularly and there are no results.
While some Anti-Shed formulas are safe, others may contain chemicals that can harm your dog.
Therefore, you should only go this route if you do not see the results you need after a very regimented brushing routine.
You can use a natural dog shampoo for regular bathing to keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat healthy.
Conclusion
The Bernese Mountain is a friendly, intelligent, and energetic dog. These dogs are also playful and obedient family companions.
You are now answered if you asked yourself whether or not they shed. These dogs tend to shed moderately throughout the year.
You can reduce shedding by brushing, bathing, and offering them a well-balanced diet.