Barbet
Quick Summary
Versatile water dogs with friendly temperaments, ideal for active families who can provide regular exercise and grooming. Excel in water activities and make loving companions.
Contents
Weight Range
35-65 lbs
♂ Male: 35-65 lbs
♀ Female: 35-65 lbs
Height Range
48-62 inches
♂ Male: 19-25"
♀ Female: 19-25"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #76
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Sporting Group
Originally bred for French water dogs from the 16th century, Barbets were developed to retrieve waterfowl from marshes and lakes
Popularity
#of
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 19"-24.5" |
| Female Height | 19"-24.5" |
| Male Weight | 35-65 lbs |
| Female Weight | 35-65 lbs |
| Coat Length | 2/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($2000-3000) and supplies. Monthly expenses cover quality food, grooming, and preventive healthcare. Regular professional grooming sessions add to maintenance costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Known for their friendly and intelligent nature, Barbets combine sporting dog energy with a gentle family disposition. They excel in water activities and show strong retrieving instincts while maintaining an even temperament.
Social Needs
Barbets form strong bonds with their families and enjoy companionship. They get along well with other dogs and can tolerate being alone for moderate periods if properly trained and exercised.
Breed Overview
Barbets are medium-sized water dogs characterized by their distinctive curly, woolly coat and long, sweeping tail. Their sturdy build and webbed feet make them exceptional swimmers, while their gentle expression and beard-like facial furnishings give them a charming, rustic appearance. These intelligent dogs possess a balanced temperament, combining their sporting heritage with an affectionate family nature.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent swimming ability
- ✓ Good with families
- ✓ Low shedding coat
- ✓ Intelligent and trainable
Cons
- ✗ High grooming needs
- ✗ Requires regular exercise
- ✗ Can be expensive to maintain
- ✗ Prone to ear infections
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Bright, Sweet-Natured |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Infrequent |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Barbets require 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, combining swimming, retrieving games, and moderate hiking. Their activity level is steady rather than intense, making them adaptable to various exercise routines.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Barbets typically need 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Their active lifestyle requires protein-rich nutrition, with special attention to joint-supporting supplements.
Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Consider food rich in protein and omega fatty acids. Adjust portions based on activity level and age.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Well-suited to homes with secure yards, though they can adapt to apartment living with sufficient exercise. They thrive in environments with access to water and moderate climates.
Requires moderate living space with access to outdoor areas. Adapts well to various living situations provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Access to water is highly beneficial.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in France as versatile water dogs, Barbets have been mentioned in literature since the 16th century. Their name comes from the French word 'barbe' meaning beard, referring to their facial hair.
Historical Purpose
French water dogs from the 16th century, Barbets were developed to retrieve waterfowl from marshes and lakes. Their waterproof coat and swimming ability made them invaluable hunting companions.
Fun Fact
Barbets are so water-loving that their nickname in France is 'Barbet of the marshes'!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming to maintain their distinctive coat, access to swimming opportunities, and protection from ear infections during water activities are essential.