Should I get my Bernese Mountain Dog clipped?

[handlemecarefully]

She's 5.5 months old. She has a thick lustrous coat and is suffering with the heat. Should I get her coat clipped or is there some reason why this is not appropriate (I'm a bit of a novice with dogs)

yes definetely - could also ring a few dog groomers & ask their advice.

my dp says no!

Check with a pro groomer - for many dogs clipping the coat will just make it grow back thicker and so more uncomfortable - not sure about BMDs.

NOOOOOOOOO Don't shave her!! Dogs do better in the heat with their coats on, as the coat is designed to protect their skin from the sun. You'd be more sucessful if you kept a cool shady spot for her, and if she was really too hot, placing cool damp towels on her. If you did shave her, she'd probably be ok, but her skin would be @ risk of overheating and getting sunburnt should she go out.

Thanks - I'll talk to a professional groomer as suggested