Barbet

The Barbet, often known as the French Water Dog, is a medium-sized dog which is fairly recent in breed development. Attractive and strong, these dogs are not only skilled water retrievers but also perform well in various working roles and as companion animals too. 

Originally bred for retrieving waterfowl from France’s lakes and rivers, the Barbet has a storied history linked to the marshlands and aristocracy of France. While the modern Barbet is considerably different in size to their historical brothers, their character and temperament remains the same.

With their curly coats and cheerful nature, Barbets love to interact with their family. They are also known for their excellent temperament around both people and other animals.

Their name, derived from the French word for ‘beard,’ aptly describes their distinctive facial hair. You might be forgiven for mistaking a Barbet for a Poodle, and indeed for many years they were often considered to be the same breed. 

In truth the Barbet is a much rarer breed, and has often been crossed with the poodle because of their similarity to preserve the species. 

The Barbet is listed in Group 8 for Gun Dogs and Water Dogs, by the French Kennel Club (SCC), and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (International Canine Federation – FCI). They were only listed in the UK’s Kennel Club (KC) in 2018, and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2020.

Read on to discover more about the origins of the Barbet, its traits and daily life below.

History Of The Barbet

Though the modern Barbet is quite a recent development, it’s story actually began in 16th Century France. Originally bred as a water-retrieving gun dog, it was a proficient hunter in the marshlands and estuaries of the French coast. Over the 16th to 19th centuries, it became a favorite among French nobility for hunting waterfowl, ducks and geese. Away from it’s working roles, it was also kept quite commonly as a companion dog or even as a guard dog.

Notable historical figures such as Napoleon are rumored to have owned Barbets, underlining the breed’s prominence in French society.

You might think then, for a breed so skilled and loved, why are they so rare today?

Well, as with many breeds in France during the early 20th Century, their survival was threatened during the world wars when its numbers dwindled to near extinction.

It wasn’t until around the 1970’s that serious conservation and revival efforts were made to breathe some life back into the breed. 

Breed Origin

The origins can be a little muddy, because for quite some time the term ‘Barbet’ was used to describe any dog that had a long woolly or curly coat. They would often be mistaken for Poodles or other similar looking breeds. 

The original Barbet however, is considered one of the oldest ‘prototype’ breeds of retrieving water dogs, with its origins likely tied to ancient European water dogs. It’s no surpise they get mistaken for some of these other breeds, because it’s genetic line is thought to have contributed to many of these breeds, including the Poodle and the Bichon Frise.

In quite the turn of fate, it was these other breeds that somewhat came to the Barbets rescue in the late 20th Century, when the then extremely rare breed faced the possibility of extinction. Crossbreeding with others, particularly the Poodle has helped numbers to recover somewhat, but they are still a rare breed. While crossing has potentially saved the breed, the modern Barbet is also often distinctly different from the original breed as a result. They tend to be taller and have a curlier coat, particularly when they have been bred with the standard poodle.

Quick Facts About The Barbet

• Strong and Agile – The Barbet is a strong and athletic breed with a sturdy frame and webbed paws. This makes them really good swimmers, which was ideal for their traditional role as water retrievers. They can happily endure plenty of activity, whether in water or on land.

• Sociable and Companionable – Known for their friendly and affectionate nature, Barbets are sociable dogs that bond deeply with their families. They have a really sweet nature and enviable charm, with a disposition that makes them excellent companions. Not just in hunting or sportive roles but also in everyday family life. As long as they receive enough mental and physical stimulation.

• Energetic and Trainable – With high energy levels, Barbets do best when they have plenty of engaging activities and regular exercise. Moderate amounts will suffice but the more the better. They are a very intelligent and highly trainable breed with a real desire to please. 

• Loyal Team Players – As dogs bred for cooperative hunting, Barbets exhibit strong social tendencies and work well alongside other dogs and humans. They are not typically dominant but do require clear, consistent training and socialization from a young age to integrate into family life and to interact well with other pets.

Characteristics Of The Barbet

It’s important for potential owners not to mistake the Barbet from similar water breeds like the Portuguese Water Dog or the Poodle. It does share historical lineage with these similar breeds, but differs in terms of grooming needs, temperament, and activity needs.

Barbet puppies usually arrive in litters of four to six and should spend the first few weeks in the nurturing care of their mother. Pups taken too early, that don’t get this time with their mother and siblings, can be problematic. Missing out on learning essential social skills and behaviors crucial for their development. Generally, by about eight weeks of age, they will be ready for their new homes.

For those considering adding a Barbet to their family, the cost of a puppy from a reputable breeder can vary widely but generally ranges from $1500 to $3000 in the United States and usually between £400 to £900 in the UK. This is just a rough guide though, as price can fluctuate based on demand from a litter and factors such as breeder reputation.

Appearance

The Barbet’s appearance is a blend of functional traits and aesthetic appeal. It is a medium-sized breed, standing about 20 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 40 and 65 pounds. Males tend to be larger than females, and in both cases they are slightly longer than they are tall. The head of the Barbet is distinctively broad with wide-set, expressive eyes.

The ears are long and set low, covered with long hair, framing the face and enhancing its charming, soulful expression. The Barbet’s muzzle is strong and wide, ending in a large, black nose that is capable of picking up the faintest of scents, a nod to its working-dog heritage. They also have a very distinctive coat and tail. The latter of which is carried with a slight curve and covered in thick hair.

From their working heritage, the Barbet’s gait is both fluid and effortless. They are capable of sudden bursts of speed out of nowhere, which were essential in its historical role flushing and retrieving game from water. Once you’ve med a Barbet, it’s easy to see why they would be used in the breeding of similar dogs in days past. They have lots of endearing qualities. 

Coat

One of the most defining features of the Barbet is its thick, curly coat. This coat is not just for looks; it serves a very practical purpose. The dense curls of the outer coat provide both insulation and water resistance, which were essential in its role hunting water fowl.

The hair on the face forms a noticeable beard and mustache, which gives the breed its name—’Barbe’ being French for beard. Modern Barbets, may have a curlier coat than the original dogs, depending on if they have been cross bred with poodle in their family line.

Color

The breed standard colors for a Barbet coat, as described by the American Kennel Club, are black, brown, fawn, gray, and white. Patterns and markings can vary, with markings from each of these 5 colors allowed. Overall, coloration in modern Barbets, typically remains solid.

Temperament

Barbets have a really nice temperament. They are a sweet natured breed with a friendly and obedient nature. They are known to forms strong bonds with all family members. Its history as a working dog makes it eager to please and easy to train, but this does need to be backed up with regular and adequate mental and physical exercise.

Despite its hunting roots, a well socialized Barbet is gentle and patient, making it an excellent companion that behaves reasonably well with children and other pets too.

Lifespan

Barbets typically enjoy a healthy lifespan of about 12 to 14 years, sometimes as long as 15 years. This is an expectancy most commonly seen in crosses than in purebreeds which don’t tend to live quite as long. Despite its longevity, due to the rarity of the breed the genetic variety available in the breeding is limited. This might cause problems from higher proportion of inbreeding down the line.

Known Health Issues

As Barbets are still so rare today, there is limited data on conditions that are a concern more widely for the breed. But we do know some of the health issues to affect them, including:

Hip Dysplasia – This is a common genetic condition in which the hip joint does not fit together perfectly, which can lead to arthritis or lameness.

• Treatment: Managing hip dysplasia typically involves lifestyle modifications such as weight management and controlled exercise, along with anti-inflammatory medications.Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

Epilepsy – A neurological disorder that often impacts humans but can also cause seizures in dogs too. While it can be alarming for owners, many dogs with epilepsy lead full lives with the right management.

• Treatment: Epilepsy is typically managed with medication to help control seizures.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – This degenerative eye disease leads to the gradual deterioration of the retina, which can eventually cause blindness.

• Treatment: There is currently no cure for PRA, so treatment focuses on helping the dog adjust to its vision loss. Owners can manage this condition by keeping their home layout consistent and guiding their dog in unfamiliar environments.

Von Willebrand’s Disease – This is a blood disorder that affects clotting. It’s important for breeders to test for this condition as it can be passed down to offspring.

• Treatment: Managing von Willebrand’s Disease may involve medications that boost the blood’s ability to clot, or in some cases, blood transfusions during surgical procedures or after serious injuries.

Daily Life

So what is everyday life with one of these sweet natured, curly haired sporting dogs actually like? Let’s explore this a little.

Food and Diet

Barbets need a high quality diet that caters to their energetic and athletic nature. This is typical for medium-sized, active breeds with a working heritage. The exact amount of food a Barbet needs will change depending on their life stage, and more active dogs will obviously need more food than a less active dog. But as a guide, an average, active Barbet needs about two to three cups of high-quality food dry kibble or equivalent calorific quantity of nutritious wet food per day. This should be divided into two or three meals across the day. 

As suggested before, the quantity should be adjusted if the dog is less active to avoid the risk of obesity. Also, older dogs will need less food, of a different nutritional mix to support their health in that life stage. For puppies, who are naturally more active and growing, more frequent feedings are advised. Typically, Barbet puppies should be fed around four smaller meals per day to support their development and high energy levels.

Exercise

As an energetic breed, Barbets need regular and consistent physical exercise to maintain their health and happiness. Several walks per day is recommended, and they will love you more if they can get to play in water at least once in a while. They love to swim, and to put their talented webbed feet to use in the water.

They also do well with lots of playtime in a yard, but it is best to only keep them off a leash in a fenced off yard, or away from parks and built up areas where they may give chase to smaller animals. They need mental exercise just as much as physical and while they might not be the most playful breed, they do love a game of fetch, peek-a-boo or hide and seek. 

Family Compatability

Barbets are good all rounders and can make fantastic family pets. While they are not the best or the most gentle breed with other dogs and children, they are generally well behaved and loving with both when they have been well trained and socialized.

The Barbet is also a versatile breed. Capable of taking on roles as either a working dog, a guard dog or as a companion. Barbets tend not to to well if left alone for long periods of time, and thrive much better in homes where they get lots of interaction and activities. In this respect they are more suitable to family homes and not to single person households.

Training

Barbets are generally easy to train, and they respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise. Consistency and patience in training will yield the best results, and help to develop an obedient and well-adjusted dog. They are a sensitive breed too, and will feed off whatever energy you are giving off. If you are positive and upbeat, they will respond well to that in training. If you are stressed and short, then they will also respond to that in a less positive way. 

Adding skills like agility tasks or lure coursing to their training will also help stimulate them mentally, bringing out some of their inherited proficiencies and keeping them well balanced too. 

Socializing

The earlier you start socializing the better, to help a Barbet pup adjust and adapt to different environments, people and pets. The quicker they get a feel for what is normal, acceptable and who is friend or foe the better. They generally have an even temperament but they are strong and capable dogs. The have strong luring and chasing instincts and for homes where regular exposure to other pets and small children is common, they need to get used to this early.

Grooming

The Barbet’s unique coat requires consistent care to maintain its condition and prevent issues like matting. Regular brushing several times a week, but preferably daily is recommended. They should also have their coat trimmed regularly to maintain a manageable length. This not only keeps the coat clean and tangle-free but also helps to manage shedding and skin health.

Despite their long, dense coat needing plenty of brushing, they don’t actually shed too much. One thing you do need to keep an eye on though is their nails, which tend to grow quite quickly compared to other breeds. Trim as required and also keep an eye on their floppy ears for wax and other muck. This is more likely when they are active out in the open and in water, but it’s an important part of the routine to help avoid painful infections. 

Breed Traits

Breed FAQs

Summary

The Barbet is a charming and versatile breed. It has intelligence and skill inherited from it’s working ancestors and a friendly, loyal nature. Their history is rooted deeply in French hunting traditions, but beyond this role, these dogs have also evolved to be much-loved family companions. Whether in the field, at home, or in competition, the Barbet stands out as a very capable breed, that offers both devoted companionship and utility. For those seeking an active, sweet-natured dog, the Barbet is a breed that should not be overlooked, if you are lucky enough to find a breeder.

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