Caring for your Bernedoodle coat and skin

Quick answer

The Bernedoodle is a crossbreed known for a low-shedding coat that requires regular maintenance. While they are affectionate and playful companions, their coat texture can hide skin issues that owners might otherwise miss. By performing routine checks of the skin, ears, and folds, you can catch problems early and keep your dog comfortable.

Maintaining skin and coat health

Because the Bernedoodle has a coat that does not shed in the traditional sense, hair can become trapped and form mats. These mats pull on the skin, causing discomfort and creating a dark, humid environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. You should brush your dog at a frequency that matches their specific coat density. If the coat is thick, daily brushing is often required. Use a metal comb to reach down to the skin, as surface brushing often misses the tangles forming near the base of the hair. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and failure to manage the coat is the most common mistake owners make, often leading to painful skin stripping during professional grooming.

Monitoring skin folds

Bernedoodles may have areas of skin that fold over one another, particularly around the face, neck, or tail base. These areas are prone to moisture accumulation. If you notice a damp smell, redness, or discharge, this is a recognised tendency in the breed. To manage this, gently wipe these areas with a soft, dry cloth. If the area remains red or inflamed despite cleaning, your vet will likely perform a skin cytology to check for an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria. This is well recognised in the breed.

Ear care and hygiene

Ear health is closely tied to the coat and skin environment. The hair inside the ear canal can trap moisture and debris. If you notice your dog shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or if you detect an unpleasant odor, this is a recognised tendency in the breed. Your vet will use an otoscope to look deep into the canal to check for inflammation or infection. How this passes down is not settled, but it is a frequent concern for owners. Always ensure your dog is dried thoroughly after baths, especially around the ears, to prevent the growth of pathogens.

Managing coat density and heat

Your dog's coat acts as insulation. During warmer weather, a dense coat can lead to overheating. While the coat is low-shedding, it must be kept clean and free of debris. An exercise log is a helpful tool for owners, as it allows you to cross-reference activity levels with the current weather conditions. If your dog seems lethargic or is panting excessively during exercise, move them to a cool, shaded area immediately. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and ignoring early signs of heat stress can be dangerous.