Bernedoodles are popular and loveable dogs. Curious about if do Bernedoodles shed and how to deal with it? Learn what you should know below!
Bernedoodles are considered one of the most hypoallergenic dogs since they shed only the smallest amount compared to other dogs. While they still shed a small amount, it’s minimal compared to a classic Bernese Mountain Dog. Sometimes Bernedoodles can shed more, however, if they aren’t groomed or bathed regularly, are malnourished, or are stressed out.
Here’s what you need to know about your Bernedoodle’s shedding amounts!
Are Bernedoodles shed-free?
There is misinformation going around that Bernedoodles are shed-free and allergy-friendly, but this isn’t really the case. It comes down to understanding the difference between hypoallergenic and non-allergenic.
Hypoallergenic dogs
This term applies to dogs who don’t shed too much. They will still shed a bit, but the fur and dander won’t be nearly as intense as a classic dog and its fur type.
Non-allergenic dogs
This would be a dog that doesn’t have any kind of dander, fur, or saliva particles that shed. This means that the dog is unlikely to cause allergy symptoms in most people. Since Bernedoodles (and every other dog) sheds at least a bit and also drools and licks, this term won’t apply to Bernedoodles!
So what’s that got to do with being shed-free? Shedding is considered the leading cause of allergy symptoms in most people. Hypoallergenic dogs are often shed-free when you use most people’s understanding of it.
A non-allergenic dog would be one without fur or any other kind of trigger for an allergic reaction. Since Bernedoodles have fur, they fall into the first category!
At its most basic: Bernedoodles are hypoallergenic, but they are not non-allergenic. They are often suitable for those with mild allergies but are still not safe for those with severe allergies.
Do mini Bernedoodles shed?
Even those mini Bernedoodles will still shed, yes. They have the same makeup as far as their poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog genes and are going to be in the same category as a full-size Bernedoodle.
Most pet parents will say that they shed less, though, because there’s less of them to shed and clean up from when it comes to size.
What factors impact a Bernedoodle’s shedding?
As introduced above, there are a few factors that can make your Bernedoodle shed more than they would otherwise. These include:
- Lack of grooming/bathing
- Malnourishment
- Stress
Lack of grooming/bathing
Bernedoodles need to be brushed/groomed regularly. It should be every day when they are blowing their coat (more on that later). Otherwise, you can look at professionally grooming them every six weeks.
They should be bathed several times a year, too. If you don’t groom or bathe them enough, their skin will get dry, and they will shed their fur excessively. This is also the case if you over-groom or over-bathe them. This is why a professional and experienced groomer will be so helpful!
Malnourishment
If your dog is not getting their nutrition needs met, their coat will suffer, and it will look lackluster, dry, and will shed excessively. They can sometimes even end up with bald patches with no fur at all.
As soon as your dog’s diet is addressed, however, your Bernedoodle’s coat and shedding consistently will go back to normal! A vet can help you out by recommending portion sizes and food brand types that will keep things even!
Stress
When under stress, a Bernedoodle will divert more of its natural resources to take care of itself. This means loss of hair and more shedding. Emotional distress can cause your dog to shed more than expected. However, as soon as their stress decreases, the shedding will return to normal.
Are Bernedoodles high maintenance?
As far as their coats are concerned, they are relatively low-maintenance. They will need regular grooming and bathing (as do all dogs), but it’s often at 6- or 8-week intervals rather than every 2-3 weeks or more.
Because of their unique fur, they don’t need as much attention, and not nearly as often as classic Bernese Mountain Dogs, for example.
Bernedoodles coat types
There are three main fur coat types that you’ll see in the Bernedoodle coat options. These are:
- A straight hair coat
- A wavy fleece coat
- A wooly coat
A straight hair coat
This often makes the Bernedoodle look like a sheepdog! It’s got thick, wiry hair that is often shaggy and straight. This kind of hair coat might have a subtle wave, but not always. This kind of coat would shed more than the classic Bernedoodle coats that you see in pictures.
A wavy fleece coat
This is the most common Bernedoodle coat! It has tight waves to it that often give it a springy appearance. The waves make it harder for the dog to shed, though there will still be a bit of shedding in this kind of coat. It gives your dog the appearance of having wavy or kinky fur instead of tight curls (next).
A wooly coat
This coat is not as standard as the straight or the wavy fleece coat, but it’s seen in some Bernedoodles. This kind of coat would have very tight curls (as opposed to waves) and be very springy to the touch. This is the coat that you’d most commonly see on a poodle.
This kind of coat will shed, but interestingly, the coils of the curls mean that the fur won’t shed onto the floor or your furniture. Instead, this means your Bernedoodle will shed onto themselves! This is great for your clean-up, but it means that grooming will be essential to keep them comfortable.
Which Bernedoodle coat type shed the most?
As you might be able to guess, a Bernedoodle with a straight hair coat will shed most of the three types. This mimics the classic dog coat rather than the Poodle genes, making it so!
What is the best Bernedoodle coat for allergy sufferers?
While there will be no totally allergy-free choice, most will find that a wool coat is the best option. This is a combination of the fact that they don’t shed as much due to their Poodle genes, and also that their shedding stays on themselves rather than in your bed, on your furniture, etc.
Do Bernedoodles shed more than Goldendoodles?
The shedding of either, and both, dogs will depend on how strong or weak the Poodle genes are. Those with stronger Bernese/Golden genes will shed more than either choice with stronger Poodle genes.
If you just compare the two head to head, however, assuming the genes are more or less equal from one to the other. In that case, Bernedoodles will shed more than Goldendoodles. This is because the Bernese Mountian Dog will shed more than the Golden Retriever.
When do Bernedoodles shed their puppy coat?
These dogs will shed their puppy coats when they are a few months old. During this time, there will be excessive shedding compared to the rest of the year, which will happen until their adult coat grows in completely.
This shedding is a once-in-a-lifetime thing that will happen with each Bernedoodle, regardless of their genetics.
While Bernedoodles only have one coat (as opposed to an undercoat and overcoat), many will still “blow their coat” seasonally. It just won’t be nearly as much as classic dogs with two coats!
How to stop Bernedoodle shedding
If you feel that your Bernedoodle is shedding more than they should be, you’ll want to check with your vet to see f their nutrition is okay. From there, you can assess their stress level and their grooming routines.
When you address the common causes for Bernedoodle shedding, what you’re left with is just their natural shedding. You can’t stop this natural pace. Never trust any kind of product that supposedly prevents your dog from shedding — it’s not only lying, but it also is likely dangerous for your dog.
A quick note on shedding
Many people often consider Bernedoodles specifically for their lack of shedding. While this is perfectly fine, remember that there is no such thing as a guarantee. Bernedoodles shouldn’t shed as much as other dog breeds, but they will still shed.
Sometimes, the Bernese Mountain Dog genes are stronger than the Poodle genes, even in cases where you’ve factored that in. This means that your Bernedoodle will shed more than one from another litter or even more than another littermate.
Lastly, not every kind of Bernedoodle has the same breeding. This refers specifically or the generation. An F1, F2, or F3 Bernedoodle has 50% Bernese Mountain Dog and 50% poodle. This means that your dog will have the same percentage of shedding.
However, if you were to have an F1B Bernedoodle, your dog would have 25% Bernedoodle and 75% Poodle. This means a smaller chance of shedding.
To conclude
Bernedoodles are low shedding dogs since their Poodle genes cut down on shedding in most cases. While they will still shed, it won’t be nearly as much as a classic Bernese Mountain Dog.
Some normally low-shedding Bernedoodles may shed excessively. This includes losing their puppy coat, blowing their coat seasonally, and also if they are dealing with malnutrition or stress.
Understanding your Bernedoodle’s coat and its needs is essential! Bernedoodles are low-shedding dogs, all things considered. Their fur need is relatively low-maintenance compared to other dog types when in good health.
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