🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Stop the Shedding: Best Bernese Mountain Dog Brushes

Tame your Bernese Mountain Dog's heavy double coat with the FURminator. Our top picks for deshedding tools to manage seasonal shedding and prevent mats.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Bernese Mountain Dog breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan. FURminator deShedding Tool for Large Dogs ★ Top Pick: FURminator deShedding Tool for Large Dogs Check Price on Amazon →
2 to 3 times per week
Recommended brushing frequency
Up to 90%
Shedding reduction with deshedding tool
7.5
Ideal dog skin pH
1 to 2 inches
Average coat length for Berners
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: FURminator deShedding Tool for Large Dogs. The FURminator effectively removes loose undercoat fur, reducing shedding by up to 90 perc.
  • Best for Double Coats: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. This slicker brush features fine, bent wires that penetrate the double coat to remove tang.
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Bristle Brush. Made with natural bristles, this brush is gentle on a Berner's skin and helps distribute n.
  • Best Budget: Andis Premium Large Slicker Brush. The Andis slicker brush offers a comfortable grip and fine wire bristles that work well fo.
  • Best Deshedding: Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush. This professional-grade brush has extra-long, fine pins that reach deep into the undercoat.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
FURminator deShedding Tool for Large Dogs Best Overall Check price →
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush Best for Double Coats Check price →
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Bristle Brush Best for Sensitive Skin Check price →
Andis Premium Large Slicker Brush Best Budget Check price →
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush Best Deshedding Check price →

Quick answer

The best dog brush for Bernese Mountain Dogs is the FURminator deShedding Tool, which effectively removes loose undercoat fur. For daily maintenance, the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is a great runner-up. If your Berner has sensitive skin, consider the Burts Bees Natural Bristle Brush.

What to consider for Dog Brush For Bernese Mountain Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick double coat with a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat. They shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes. When choosing a brush, consider one that can penetrate the topcoat to remove loose undercoat without damaging the skin. Slicker brushes and undercoat rakes are effective. Also, look for ergonomic handles to make brushing comfortable during longer sessions. Berners are prone to skin sensitivities, so avoid brushes with sharp or uneven tines.

What to look for in a grooming product (shampoo, brush, clipper or wipe)

For a Bernese Mountain Dog, choose a brush that matches their double coat: a slicker brush for daily detangling and an undercoat rake or deshedding tool for seasonal shedding. Look for rounded tips to prevent skin irritation. For clippers, opt for low-noise models with ceramic blades to avoid overheating. If using wipes, choose hypoallergenic, alcohol-free options. Always check that products are dog-safe and pH-balanced for canine skin (around 7.5). Ease of cleaning the brush (e.g., self-cleaning mechanisms) is a plus.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated brush types suitable for double-coated breeds
  • Reviewed customer feedback on effectiveness for Bernese Mountain Dogs
  • Considered durability and comfort of handles
  • Checked for safety features like rounded tips
  • Compared price points for value
  • Focused on brands known for quality pet grooming tools
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Human shampoo: wrong pH for dogs, can cause skin irritation
  • Harsh fragrances on sensitive skin: may trigger allergies
  • Dull clipper blades that pull: painful for the dog
  • Brushing a matted coat without detangling first: causes pain and skin damage

For more guides, visit our dog guides, dog care products, and dog nutrition pages.

Why this matters

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a double coat that sheds heavily twice a year, making a deshedding tool essential during those periods to manage loose fur and prevent mats.

The Options

Types Explained

Slicker Brush

A brush with fine, short wires close together, ideal for removing tangles and loose fur from the topcoat and undercoat.

Best for: Daily brushing and detangling for Bernese Mountain Dogs with moderate shedding.

Undercoat Rake

A tool with long, spaced teeth that penetrate the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting.

Best for: Heavy shedding periods, especially during seasonal coat blow.

Deshedding Tool

A specialized tool with a stainless steel edge that removes loose undercoat fur while leaving the topcoat intact.

Best for: Reducing overall shedding significantly, best used once a week.

Bristle Brush

A brush with natural or synthetic bristles that distributes natural oils and gives a shiny finish.

Best for: Gentle daily grooming for dogs with sensitive skin or as a finishing brush.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
FURminator deShedding Tool for Large Dogs
Best Overall

FURminator deShedding Tool for Large Dogs

View on Amazon

The FURminator effectively removes loose undercoat fur, reducing shedding by up to 90 percent. Its stainless steel edge reaches through the topcoat without cutting it. However, it can be too sharp for dogs with sensitive skin if used too aggressively, so gentle strokes are recommended.

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#2
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Best for Double Coats

Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

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This slicker brush features fine, bent wires that penetrate the double coat to remove tangles and loose fur. The self-cleaning mechanism retracts bristles for easy cleanup. A limitation is that the bristles may be too soft for thick mats, requiring a separate dematting tool.

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#3
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Bristle Brush
Best for Sensitive Skin

Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Bristle Brush

View on Amazon

Made with natural bristles, this brush is gentle on a Berner's skin and helps distribute natural oils for a healthy coat. It is ideal for daily grooming but less effective for heavy shedding or deep undercoat removal compared to deshedding tools.

Check Price on Amazon →
#4
Andis Premium Large Slicker Brush
Best Budget

Andis Premium Large Slicker Brush

View on Amazon

The Andis slicker brush offers a comfortable grip and fine wire bristles that work well for detangling and removing loose fur. It is durable and affordable. However, it lacks a self-cleaning feature, so removing hair from the brush requires manual effort.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
Best Deshedding

Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush

View on Amazon

This professional-grade brush has extra-long, fine pins that reach deep into the undercoat to remove loose hair without scratching the skin. It is excellent for heavy shedders like Bernese Mountain Dogs. The downside is its higher price point, but it offers superior performance.

Check Price on Amazon →
Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Coat Type Compatibility

Ensure the brush is designed for double coats. Slicker brushes and undercoat rakes are best for reaching the dense undercoat without damaging the outer coat.

02

Bristle Material and Safety

Look for rounded tips or fine, flexible wires to prevent skin irritation. Stainless steel is durable, but natural bristles are gentler for sensitive skin.

03

Ergonomics and Comfort

A comfortable, non-slip handle reduces hand fatigue during long grooming sessions. Consider brushes with cushioned grips.

04

Ease of Cleaning

Self-cleaning brushes save time by ejecting hair with a button. Traditional brushes require manual removal, which can be tedious.

05

Size and Weight

Choose a brush size appropriate for a large breed. A larger brush covers more area, making grooming faster, but ensure it is not too heavy to handle.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Brushing Routine

Brush your Bernese Mountain Dog 2 to 3 times per week. During shedding season, increase to daily. Start with a slicker brush to remove tangles, then use an undercoat rake or deshedding tool to remove loose undercoat. Finish with a bristle brush for shine.

Bathing Schedule

Bathe your Berner every 6 to 8 weeks, or as needed. Use a dog-specific shampoo with a pH around 7.5. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, so brush thoroughly before baths to remove loose fur.

Dealing with Mats

Mats often form behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar. Use a dematting tool or comb to gently work through mats. If severe, consult a professional groomer. Never cut mats with scissors close to the skin.

Pro tip

Always brush your Berner before a bath to remove loose fur and prevent mats from tightening when wet. Use a conditioner to keep the coat soft and reduce static.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Bernese Mountain Dog?
Brush your Bernese Mountain Dog 2 to 3 times per week to maintain a healthy coat and reduce shedding. During seasonal shedding in spring and fall, daily brushing is recommended to manage the heavy undercoat loss. Regular brushing also helps distribute natural oils and prevents mats.
What type of brush is best for a Bernese Mountain Dog's double coat?
A combination of tools works best. Use a slicker brush for daily detangling and removing loose fur from the topcoat. For the dense undercoat, an undercoat rake or deshedding tool like the FURminator is effective. A bristle brush can be used for finishing and shine.
Can I use a human brush on my Bernese Mountain Dog?
No, human brushes are not designed for canine coats. They lack the necessary structure to penetrate a double coat and may cause skin irritation. Always use brushes specifically made for dogs, with appropriate bristle length and firmness for your Berner's coat.
Are deshedding tools safe for Bernese Mountain Dogs?
Yes, when used correctly. Deshedding tools like the FURminator are designed to remove loose undercoat without cutting the topcoat. Use gentle, short strokes and avoid pressing too hard to prevent skin irritation. Do not use on matted fur or sensitive areas.
How do I choose a clipper for my Bernese Mountain Dog?
Choose a clipper with low noise and vibration to keep your Berner calm. Look for ceramic or titanium blades that stay cool during use. A clipper with adjustable blade lengths (e.g., #10 for sanitary areas, #7 for body) is versatile. Cordless models offer freedom of movement.
What should I do if my Bernese Mountain Dog has mats?
First, try to gently work out the mat with a dematting tool or a wide-tooth comb. Apply a detangling spray if needed. If the mat is too tight or close to the skin, consult a professional groomer to avoid cutting the skin. Never use scissors near the skin.
What ingredients should I avoid in dog grooming products?
Avoid products with artificial fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and alcohol, as these can irritate a Berner's sensitive skin. Look for natural, hypoallergenic ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, and coconut oil. Always choose pH-balanced formulas (around 7.5) for dogs.
How can I make grooming less stressful for my Bernese Mountain Dog?
Start grooming early in your dog's life to build positive associations. Use treats and praise during sessions. Keep sessions short (10 to 15 minutes) and gradually increase duration. Ensure the environment is calm and use a non-slip mat. If your dog shows anxiety, consult a trainer.
Is it necessary to brush my Bernese Mountain Dog's teeth?
Yes, dental care is important. Brush your Berner's teeth 2 to 3 times a week using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental chews and water additives can also help maintain oral health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease and other health issues.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.