Other than the ears, your Bernie looks like my Ziggy. He also has a cottony coat but I love it long. (Its not so long right now because he had a big surgery a few months back.) I find that leave in hair conditioners really help. Someone has suggested grooming oils such as those used by African-Canadians, but I haven't tried those yet.
It is a big commitment to keep a long coat but well worth it. Don't be talked into going shorter if you love the long hair. I think he is beautiful just the way he is. A groomer can just smooth out the edges if you ask.
__________________ Charlene and Ziggy 
Member of the Little Gentleman's Club |