American Water Spaniel vs Barbet
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Barbet: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Barbet: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Barbet: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Water Spaniel3/5
Barbet5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Barbet5/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Barbet3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Water Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Cardiac Issues: Heart murmurs common
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Pattern Baldness: Hereditary condition
Barbet
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Pros & Cons Comparison
American Water Spaniel
Pros
Excellent water retrievers
Versatile hunting companions
Good family dogs
Moderate size
Smart and trainable
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
Needs lots of exercise
May be reserved with strangers
Barbet
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
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Barbet Fun Fact
Barbets are so water-loving that their nickname in France is 'Barbet of the marshes'!
Heritage & Purpose
American Water Spaniel
Origin: United States
Developed in the Great Lakes region during the 19th century, these dogs excelled at waterfowl hunting in challenging conditions. Their compact size suited them for small fishing boats.
Barbet
Origin:
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.
Special Considerations
American Water Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat condition. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Prone to ear infections due to water activities.
Barbet
Regular grooming to maintain their distinctive coat, access to swimming opportunities, and protection from ear infections during water activities are essential.