Barbet vs Spanish Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Barbet: Regular Exercise0.6
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Barbet: Agreeable0.6
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Barbet: Weekly Brushing0.4
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Barbet5/5
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Barbet5/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Barbet3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Spanish Water Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
CHD: Congenital heart defects possible
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Spanish Water Dog
Pros
Highly trainable
Excellent swimming ability
Low shedding coat
Versatile working dog
Cons
High grooming maintenance
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Strong herding instincts
Barbet Fun Fact
Barbets are so water-loving that their nickname in France is 'Barbet of the marshes'!
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Spanish Water Dog
Origin:
Developed along Spain's coastal regions during the Middle Ages, these dogs excelled in herding livestock and retrieving from water, serving as versatile working companions.
Special Considerations
Barbet
Regular grooming to maintain their distinctive coat, access to swimming opportunities, and protection from ear infections during water activities are essential.
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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