Saint Berdoodle

Brushing Routine

Saint Berdoodles (Saint Bernard x Poodle) are large dogs with coats ranging from the Saint Bernard's dense, smooth or rough double coat to the Poodle's curly coat, with many having a thick, wavy blend. Brush thoroughly every day using a large slicker brush for the body and a steel comb for the face, legs, and underbelly. For rough-coat types, an undercoat rake is essential to prevent the dense undercoat from matting against the skin. Given their size, plan for 20-30 minute brushing sessions.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 4-6 weeks with a deep-cleaning, moisturizing shampoo appropriate for thick coats. Due to their size, a high-velocity dryer is essential -- air-drying is not an option as trapped moisture in the dense coat leads to skin problems. Use a heavy conditioner and work it deep into the coat. Consider a waterless shampoo or grooming wipes for spot cleaning between baths, especially around the jowls and beard where drool accumulates.

Common Issues

• Drool staining and matting around the jowls and chest from Saint Bernard genetics
• Severe matting in the dense undercoat if brushing is skipped even a few days
• Skin fold infections in facial wrinkles inherited from the Saint Bernard
• Joint sensitivity during grooming due to large breed orthopedic concerns
• Excessive shedding in double-coated individuals during seasonal changes

Extend Your Grooming Results

Keep a drool cloth handy and wipe the jowl area multiple times daily to prevent staining and bacterial buildup. Use a waterproof bib or bandana during meals to protect the chest coat. Apply a conditioning spray before brushing to reduce coat stress and make sessions easier on this large breed. Keep the sanitary area and paw pads trimmed at home to maintain hygiene between professional grooms.

Seasonal Care

Saint Berdoodles with double coats experience heavy shedding in spring and fall, requiring daily undercoat raking during these periods. In summer, never shave a double-coated Saint Berdoodle -- the undercoat provides insulation against heat. Keep them cool with a shorter trim on top while preserving the undercoat structure. In winter, the coat naturally thickens and requires more frequent brushing to prevent dense mats from forming close to the skin.

Maintenance Schedule

Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks (size and coat density may require extended appointments). Daily brushing at 20-30 minutes per session. Facial fold cleaning daily. Drool management ongoing. Ear cleaning weekly. Nail trims every 2-3 weeks. Paw pad trims every 2-3 weeks.