The Barbet is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive, dense, curly coat that covers its entire body, including a characteristic beard.

Medium; males typically 21-24.5 inches, females 19-22.5 inches at the shoulder.

35-65 pounds, proportionate to size.

Dense, curly, woolly, forming cords; waterproof.

Solid black, gray, brown, fawn, or cream, often with white markings.

Broad, with a well-defined stop.

Round, dark brown, expressive.

Set low, long, flat, and wide, covered in long hair.

Slightly curved, carried low.

Barbets are known for their friendly, intelligent, and sociable nature, making them excellent companions.

Enjoys the company of humans and other dogs; generally good with children.

Quick learners, responsive to training.

Forms strong bonds with their family.

Calm and stable, not prone to aggression.

Enjoys games and activities, especially those involving water.

Makes a reasonably good watchdog, though not overly protective.

The Barbet is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise, training, and grooming.

Loves water and outdoor activities.

Not ideal for sedentary owners.

The ideal Barbet owner is someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, appreciates a dog with a cheerful and engaging personality, and is committed to providing the necessary care and attention this unique breed requires.

Caring for a Barbet involves regular grooming of their curly coat, a balanced diet, and providing a stimulating living environment.

Requires regular brushing (several times a week) and occasional professional grooming to prevent matting; the coat is considered hypoallergenic but is not maintenance-free.

Only as needed, to avoid stripping the coat of its natural oils.

High-quality dog food, appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Adaptable to various living situations, but needs sufficient space for exercise; a fenced yard is beneficial.

Regularly, as needed.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections, especially important due to their love of water.

Barbets are relatively easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, and they require a moderate to high amount of exercise.

Barbets respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and treats. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to ensure a well-behaved adult dog. Their intelligence means they can get bored easily, so training sessions should be kept engaging and varied.

Barbets need daily exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. This can include long walks, jogging, swimming (which they love), and interactive play sessions. They also excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and dock diving.

Maintain a consistent training routine.

Use rewards-based training methods.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Provide puzzle toys and games to keep their minds active.

Take advantage of their love for water with swimming sessions.

Barbets are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis.

Similar to hip dysplasia, affecting the elbow joint.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

A neurological disorder that can cause seizures.

Prone to ear infections due to their floppy, hairy ears.

The Barbet is an ancient breed, with roots tracing back to 16th-century France, although some believe its ancestry is even older, possibly connected to early herding dogs and water dogs across Europe. The name 'Barbet' comes from the French word 'barbe,' meaning beard, referring to its distinctive facial hair. Historically, they were used by sailors and hunters for retrieving waterfowl. The breed faced near extinction after the World Wars, but dedicated breeders worked diligently to revive it. The Barbet was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in its Miscellaneous Class in 2020, and moved to the Sporting Group on January 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone in its resurgence.

Yes, Barbets are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent companions for families, including those with children.

Barbets have a non-shedding, woolly coat, making them a good choice for people with allergies. However, their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

Barbets are active dogs and need daily exercise, such as long walks, jogging, swimming, or playing fetch. They also benefit from mental stimulation through training and games.

Yes, Barbets are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

The average lifespan of a Barbet is 12-14 years.

Yes, Barbets are water dogs and have a natural affinity for swimming. They have webbed feet and a waterproof coat, making them excellent swimmers.

Yes, Barbets are considered a rare breed, although their popularity is gradually increasing.

Barbets can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, and ear infections. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are important.

Barbets require regular grooming, including brushing several times a week and occasional professional grooming to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.

It's recommended to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and temperament of their dogs. Breed-specific rescues may also have Barbets available for adoption.