Should I Shave My Bernese Mountain Dog? That was a question that was posed to me by an acquaintance after she heard several conflicting remarks. There are some professional dog groomers who said that it is actually ok to shave the Bernese Mountain Dog, while there are other “dog gurus” who say that shaving the dogs should not be an option. Let me now go into the details as to whether you should shave your Bernese Mountain Dog or not.
Shaved Bernese Mountain Dog
When it comes to shaving dogs, you always got to be aware that there are reasons why dogs have the coat or even the double coat. Whenever we hear of owners saying that they should shave the dog during summer time as it is warm for the dog, I will always have the urge to correct this terrible misconception. And the urge turns into a cringe when I heard that some professional dog groomers have been saying this for years too.
You know what is the best way to differentiate a noob groomer versus the professional groomer? The true blue professional groomer will never advise you to shave down your double coated dog, no matter what breed it is! Let us first look into the coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog.
The Coat of a Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for their long, thick, and fluffy coat. This coat serves a purpose beyond just looking good, as it protects them from the harsh winter elements. Their fur helps to regulate their body temperature, keeping them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Additionally, the thick undercoat helps to repel dirt and water, making grooming and cleaning easier.
Reasons Why You Should Not Shave Your Bernese Mountain Dog Completely
While it is ok to shave your Bernese Mountain Dog when they have some skin allergy and a short coat is needed for the short term to manage it, it is not ok to shave your Bernese Mountain Dog completely.
You have to understand that the double coat that the Bernese Mountain Dog has is for a good reason!
You see, as mentioned earlier, the double coat is able to protect the dog during summer as well as during winter times. Hence, if you decide to erroneously shave down the Bernese Mountain Dog, you will be devoiding them of the protective cover that they will need to protect them from the heat as well as from the cold too.
You have to know that the coats will be needed to provide insulation to the dog’s skin, and it really helps to keep the dog clean and dry too. If you must know, and I think it is good to know, that the dog’s coat can actually help to prevent sunburn from happening on your dog’s skin. Of course, the coat is needed for us to cuddle them too!
Last but not least, if you ever shave down a doubled coated dog like the Bernese Mountain Dog, you will need to know that the new coat will be nothing like the original coat that the dogs have. It will be completely different, and the feel will feel foreign too.
The Importance of Grooming
While you shouldn’t shave your Bernese Mountain Dog, grooming is still an essential part of their care. Regular brushing can help to remove loose fur, prevent matting, and keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Brushing also stimulates the natural oils in their coat, which can help to improve their overall skin and coat health. For Bernese Mountain Dogs, it’s recommended to brush them at least once a week and more frequently during shedding season.
How To Shave A Bernese Mountain Dog
Having said all these, there are still some exceptional cases at which there is a need to shave your Bernese Mountain Dog. If that is the case, we highly recommend you not to shave beyond the number 5. That should be the bare minimum that you should be targeting. Anything beyond that will not be too good for your Bernese Mountain Dog.
You can always use the best dog clippers for Bernese Mountain Dog such as the Wahl Clipper Pet-Pro Pet Clipper Dog Grooming Kit.
For more tips, you can refer to our page on the Ultimate Dog Clippers For Great Pyrenees.
Grooming Tips
When grooming your Bernese Mountain Dog, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to use the right type of brush. A slicker brush or a deshedding tool works best for Bernese Mountain Dogs, as they can effectively remove loose fur without damaging the coat. It’s also essential to be gentle when brushing, as their skin is sensitive and can be easily irritated. Finally, be sure to give them a good bath every few months to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Other Ways to Keep Your Bernese Mountain Dog Cool
If you’re concerned about keeping your Bernese Mountain Dog cool during the hot summer months, there are other ways to do so without shaving them. One option is to provide them with plenty of shade, such as under a tree or a canopy. Another option is to provide them with a cooling pad or a wet towel to lay on. Additionally, make sure to keep them well-hydrated by providing fresh water at all times.
Conclusion
While it may be tempting to shave your Bernese Mountain Dog to keep them cool during the summer months, it’s not recommended. Their coat serves a purpose beyond just looking good, and removing it can cause more harm than good. Instead, focus on regular grooming and finding other ways to keep them cool, such as providing shade and water. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your Bernese Mountain Dog healthy, happy, and looking at its best.
