A slicker brush for general brushing A rake comb for detangling and combing out matted fur Scissors for cutting out large matts
Bernese mountain dogs typically blow their coat twice a year when the weather changes. You may need to brush your dog more frequently during these times Because your dog has so much fur, it will be easier to brush the coat layers in small sections. [3] X Research source This will make brushing take longer, but will ensure a thorough brushing.
Consider using a detangling spray, which will loosen the matts. Purchase this spray at your local pet store. If the matts are too big to comb through, cut them out with the scissors. Don’t yank and pull to get the matts out. This will hurt your dog make grooming a negative experience for it. If your dog seems to be prone to matted fur, consider taking them to a groomer. They may recommend an all-over haircut to make the matting less likely.
Brush the hair behind the ears carefully, since it’s soft and can easily get matted. Use a comb to groom the hair on the legs. Brush the tail last.
Between the foot pads Fur around the foot, to give the foot a nice shape Long streams of hair on the ears
Too-frequent bathing can dry out your dog’s skin. Always brush your dog before bathing. Brushing will help get rid of excess hair and allow you to remove matts that could become impossible to manage when the fur is wet. [8] X Research source
Dog-safe shampoo Non-slip bath mats Regular or moisture-absorbent towels Hair catcher to cover the tub’s drain
Place the non-slip mat in the tub before running the water. This mat will give your dog some traction so it doesn’t slip during the bath.
Protecting the eyes is important, too. Purchase sterile eye lubricant and apply it to your dog’s eyes. [13] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source To keep the lubricant sterile, do not touch the tube’s tip with your fingers and do not touch the tip directly to the eye.
Make sure you get the shampoo all the way down to the skin. Talk to your dog in a gentle, yet playful voice as you bathe them. [15] X Research source This will help make the bath a pleasant experience for both of you. Your dog will not want water to get on its face. [16] X Research source Dampen a clean wash cloth with water and gently rub your dog’s face. Be careful around their eyes.
You’ll know all the shampoo is out when you no longer see suds as you run your fingers through the coat.
In addition to towels, you can dry off your dog with a dog-safe hair dryer. [19] X Research source Ask a pet groomer or your vet for recommendations on high-quality doggie hair dryers.
To get your dog comfortable with teeth brushing, rub your finger all along its teeth. Then, touch the toothbrush (without toothpaste) to each tooth. Next, put some toothpaste on your finger and let your dog lick it off. When your dog’s comfortable, gently brush the teeth. Go from the outside of the front teeth to the back teeth. You don’t have to clean the inside of the teeth if your dog doesn’t like it. Praise your dog so they know teeth brushing is a positive experience.
Choose between guillotine- and scissor-type trimmers. Although they’re both effective, guillotine trimmers may be easier for you to use. Hold only one nail at a time. Position the trimmer so you cut the nail at an angle that matches the nail’s natural curve. Trim to just above the quick, the pink vein running through the nail. The quick is easier to see in light-colored nails. If your dog has dark nails and you cannot see the quick, start by clipping the nail little by little. As you get closer the the quick, you will notice the white spot at the center of the nail begin to darken. This can be a good cue to stop clipping. It is a good idea to have styptic powder on hand so that if you do clip the quick on accident, you can quickly stop the bleeding. Styptic powder should be available at your local pet store. After trimming all the nails, file them with an emery board (available at your local pharmacy) to smooth out the rough edges.
Do not use a Q-tip to clean the ears. Check the ears at least once a week for signs of ear problems, like redness or bad odor. [26] X Research source These signs could indicate an ear infection. If you see these signs, take your dog to your vet.
