The Cutest Bernedoodle Haircut Styles (And What to Ask Your Groomer)
Bernedoodles already look like real-life teddy bears. But give them the right haircut, and suddenly—they’re showstoppers. From fluffy faces to sleek trims, the way your Bernedoodle is groomed totally changes their vibe. But here’s the catch: if you’re not clear with your groomer, your pup might come out looking nothing like what you imagined.
This post dives deep into the cutest Bernedoodle haircut styles, what each one looks like, the pros and cons, and exactly what to ask your groomer so there are no surprises.
Whether you’re a first-time Bernedoodle parent or just looking for fresh inspiration, I’ve got you covered.
But First—What You Need to Know About Bernedoodle Coats
Before you pick a style, it helps to understand your Bernedoodle’s coat type. Because grooming a curly-coated Bernedoodle is not the same as grooming one with a wavy or straight coat.
Types of Bernedoodle Coats:
- Curly: More Poodle-like. Tight curls, low shedding, prone to matting.
- Wavy (Fleece): The most common. Slight wave, fluffy, low-to-moderate shedding.
- Straight: Less common. More like a Bernese coat, sheds more, easier to brush but not as hypoallergenic.
Each coat type reacts differently to certain cuts. Curly coats look super plush with teddy bear trims. Straight coats may need more frequent brushing to look tidy between grooms.
Stat: A 2024 grooming trends survey by Rover revealed that 63% of Bernedoodle owners preferred wavy coats for manageability and appearance.
The Cutest Bernedoodle Haircut Styles
Here are the most popular and adorable styles, complete with descriptions and what to tell your groomer.
1. The Teddy Bear Cut
This is the classic Bernedoodle look. Soft, fluffy, and huggable.
- Body: ½” to 1″ uniform length
- Face: Rounded with a full muzzle and fluffy cheeks
- Ears: Blended into the face
- Tail: Trimmed, but not shaved
Why it’s cute: It makes your dog look like a living plush toy.
Best for: Wavy or curly coats
What to tell your groomer:
“I’d like a teddy bear cut—keep the coat around half an inch all over with a rounded face and blended ears.”
2. The Puppy Cut
Simple, low-maintenance, and perfect for summer.
- Body: Uniform length, usually ½”
- Face: Natural shape or slightly trimmed
- Tail & Legs: Even with body
Why it’s cute: Clean and sweet. Great for active dogs or warmer months.
Best for: All coat types
What to tell your groomer:
“Let’s go with a puppy cut—same length all over, including the face, about half an inch or so.”
3. The Lamb Cut
Think stylish and a little bit bougie.
- Body: Short clip (⅜” or shorter)
- Legs: Left longer and blended
- Face: Styled or left natural
- Tail: Shaped
Why it’s cute: It creates a posh silhouette—lean body, fluffy legs.
Best for: Poodle-heavy Bernedoodles
What to tell your groomer:
“Lamb cut please—short body, longer legs, a round face, and a shaped tail.”
4. The Kennel Cut
Functional and easy to maintain.
- Body: Very short all over
- Face, tail, ears: Trimmed short or left slightly longer
Why it’s cute: Less fluff, but still a sweet face. Keeps them cool and tidy.
Best for: Owners who don’t want to brush daily
What to tell your groomer:
“Can we do a kennel cut? Very short all over, but don’t shave the face completely—just tidy.”
5. The Poodle Cut (Modified)
This one leans into their Poodle heritage.
- Body: Very short
- Legs & Head: Longer with dramatic fluff
- Face: Can be shaved or rounded
- Tail: Pom-pom or scissor-trimmed
Why it’s cute: Fancy and elegant. Also helps control matting around joints.
Best for: Curly-coated Bernedoodles
What to tell your groomer:
“A modified Poodle cut with short body and longer legs and topknot. Rounded face—not shaved.”
6. The Shaggy Cut
A more natural, unstructured look.
- Body: Medium-length
- Face: Slightly scruffy
- Tail & Legs: Feathered, light trim
Why it’s cute: Perfect for that messy-haired, effortlessly cute look.
Best for: Wavy or straight coats
What to tell your groomer:
“I’d love a shaggy cut—leave the coat natural-looking but trimmed for cleanliness, especially the feet and face.”
Things to Tell Your Groomer (Seriously, Don’t Skip These)
Even if you show a photo, make sure to also say these things out loud to avoid mix-ups:
1. No Shaving Request
If you don’t want your dog shaved unless absolutely necessary (like mats), say it upfront.
2. Face Preferences
Do you want a full teddy bear face? A trimmed muzzle? Clean around the eyes?
3. Ear and Tail Length
Some groomers trim ears close unless told otherwise. Same with tails.
4. Feet Shape
Rounded paws or trimmed close for easier cleaning?
What Happens If You Don’t Brush Between Grooms
Bernedoodle coats are prone to matting, especially the curly or wavy ones. Once the coat is matted, it’s painful for your dog and nearly impossible to fix with brushing alone.
Fact: According to PetMD, mats can cause skin irritation, restricted movement, and even infection if not addressed.
This is why even the cutest haircut won’t last if you’re not brushing regularly (3–4 times a week minimum).
Grooming Schedule:
What’s Ideal for Bernedoodles?
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Brushing | 3–4x a week (or daily for curls) |
| Full Groom (Haircut) | Every 6–8 weeks |
| Nail Trimming | Every 3–4 weeks |
| Ear Cleaning | Every 1–2 weeks |
| Bath | Every 4–6 weeks |
Top Grooming Tools for Bernedoodle Parents
- Slicker Brush: Great for removing loose hair and preventing mats.
- Steel Comb: Gets deep into the coat to detect hidden tangles.
- Dematting Tool: For small knots before they turn into big ones.
- Dog Dryer (Low Heat): Speeds up drying and helps fluff the coat.
Stat: A 2025 Groomers Collective survey found that Bernedoodle owners who brushed 3x a week had 40% fewer matting incidents than those who brushed once a week or less.
10 FAQs About Bernedoodle Haircuts
1. What’s the best haircut for a Bernedoodle puppy?
The teddy bear or puppy cut. Both are soft, manageable, and highlight their adorable features.
2. Can I groom my Bernedoodle at home?
You can do maintenance like brushing and bathing, but professional cuts are better unless you’re trained.
3. How much does a Bernedoodle grooming session cost?
Anywhere from $75–$150 depending on size, coat, and location.
4. How often should a Bernedoodle be groomed?
Every 6–8 weeks for haircuts, with brushing several times a week in between.
5. Should I shave my Bernedoodle in the summer?
Not unless advised. Their coat actually helps regulate body temperature. Instead, go for a shorter trim.
6. What happens if I don’t brush my Bernedoodle?
Mats, discomfort, possible shaving, and even vet trips. It’s not worth skipping!
7. Which haircut style keeps shedding down?
Curly or wavy coats already shed less. Keeping the coat short helps reduce loose hair indoors.
8. Are certain cuts better for curly coats?
Yes. Teddy bear and Poodle cuts work better for curly coats since they shape well and reduce mats.
9. What should I do before a grooming appointment?
Brush thoroughly, especially behind ears and legs. Let your dog potty beforehand. Bring a photo reference.
10. Will my Bernedoodle’s coat change as they grow?
Yes. Many pups start with a soft, fluffy coat that matures into a denser adult coat around 6–12 months.
Final Thoughts
Bernedoodles are already adorable, but the right haircut just levels it up. Whether you like the fluffy teddy bear look or a sleek low-maintenance style, communication with your groomer is everything.
And remember: brushing between grooms isn’t optional—it’s what keeps your dog comfortable and keeps those stylish cuts looking fresh.
No matter which style you go with, your Bernedoodle’s going to turn heads. Probably while dragging a stick twice their size.
References
- PetMD – Matting in Dogs: Why It Matters
- Rover.com Grooming Survey 2024
- American Kennel Club – Bernedoodle Coat Types
- Groomers Collective 2025 Survey (Industry Data)
From training tricks to grooming hacks, plenty of Bernedoodle blogs are waiting for you.
Bernedoodle Working Dogs: Case Studies in Therapy and Assistance
The Impact of Generation on Bernedoodle Temperament and Predictability
Managing Hereditary Health Risks in Bernedoodles: A Deep Dive into Genetics
If you’re loving this post, you’ll definitely enjoy our other Golden Retriever guides and stories too.
How to Stop Your Golden Retriever Puppy from Jumping on Guests – Gentle & Effective Tips
The Ultimate Guide to Golden Retrievers: History, Traits, Stats, and FAQs
