A Comprehensive Guide to the Barbet

Let's meet the Barbet, pronounced " Bar-bay"

A distinctive and affectionate Gun Dog breed with a rich history and a personality that makes it a wonderful companion.

Known for its curly coat and friendly nature, the Barbet has been gaining attention among dog lovers who want a versatile, intelligent, and sociable pet.

History of the Barbet

The Barbet is an ancient French water dog breed, dating back several centuries.

Originally bred for hunting waterfowl, Barbets were prized for their ability to retrieve game from lakes and rivers.

The name comes from the French "Le Chien Barbet," meaning" dog with a beard," referring to the breed’s characteristic facial hair.

Over time, the Barbet's skills and temperament made it a favourite among hunters and families alike.

Though once rare, the breed has seen a surge in popularity thanks to dedicated breeders and enthusiasts.

About the Barbet Breed

Barbets are large to medium-sized dogs with a strong build and a distinctive curly, woolly coat that protects them in water and cold weather.

They are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them excellent working dogs and companions.

Their history as Gun Dogs means they have a natural instinct for retrieving and swimming.

Personality

Barbets are known for their gentle, affectionate, and playful nature.

However, they can be sensitive.

Being part of family activities is something these dogs love, as they thrive on human interactions.

These dogs are friendly with strangers but not overly boisterous, making them good watchdogs without being aggressive.

Their intelligence means they learn training commands quickly

But they also need mental stimulation through mind games, which help your dog stay happy.

Living with

Living with a Barbet means having an active, loving companion who enjoys both playtime and relaxation.

They are good with children, often forming strong bonds and showing patience with younger family members.

Barbets also tend to get along well with other pets, especially if socialised early.

But be wary of them around small pets and birds, as they have a strong prey drive, which can kick in, especially around birds.

Because these dogs are so sociable, leaving them alone for long periods can cause your Barbet to have separation anxiety.

So they do best in homes where they receive plenty of attention and companionship.

Suitable Environment

Apartment living is not ideal; owners must commit to providing sufficient exercise and mental challenges.

Barbets do best in homes with access to outdoor space.

They enjoy swimming and running, so the countryside is an ideal place for this dog to live.

A calm, loving household with active members suits the Barbet perfectly.

Ideal Owner

The ideal Barbet owner is someone who spends a lot of time outdoors enjoying an active lifestyle.

They should be ready to engage in regular exercise, training, and grooming.

Because Barbets crave social interaction, owners who can provide companionship and mental stimulation will find this breed rewarding.

Families, singles, or active seniors who want a loyal, intelligent dog can all benefit from welcoming a Barbet into their home.

Appearance and Size

• Weight: 18 to 27 kg

• Height: 50 to 61 cm at the shoulder

• Coat Length: Medium to long, dense, and curly

• Coat Colours: Black, brown, fawn, and grey. These colours are often with white markings.

• Hypoallergenic: Yes

• Shedding: Low

• Grooming Needs: High – Daily brushing is required

• Training Needs: Medium – intelligent and eager, but consistent training is essential

• Exercise Needs: 1 to 2 hours daily

• Tendency to Bark: Low to medium – generally quiet but will alert when necessary

• Tendency To Dig: Low

• Tendency to Drool: Low

• Tendency to Snore: Low to medium

• Social Attention Needs: High – thrives on interaction and companionship

• Life Span: 12 to 14 years

• Royal Kennel Club UK: Gun Dog

• American Kennel Club: Sporting Group

Grooming

Barbets need regular grooming to keep their curly coats healthy and free of mats.

Brush your Barbet at least 4 times a week.

Use a slicker brush first to remove any tangles, then a long-toothed metal comb  (A Butter Comb) designed for curly coats

The metal comb will reach the skin to prevent curls from matting at the roots.

A pin brush can then be used to fluff up the coat.

The Barbets' coat must not be cut short.

A trim here and there to keep your dog's coat neat and tidy is sufficient.

Bathing:

Bathing should be done every 6 weeks or as needed.

Use a dog shampoo formulated for curly-coated dogs.

The shampoo must be able to remove the dirt, detangle and condition the coat without stripping your dog's natural coat oil.

After bathing, dry the coat thoroughly to prevent mildew or skin problems.

Eye Cleaning:

Clean your Barbet’s eyes regularly with cool, boiled water and cotton wool pads, or special dog eye-cleaning wipes to remove any discharge and prevent staining.

Ear Cleaning:

For ears, check weekly for dirt or wax buildup and clean with a vet-approved ear cleaner to avoid infections.

Only wipe the outer part of the ear canal and use a damp cotton wool pad.

Never use a swab or go into your dog's ear canal, as this could harm your dog's ears.

Nail Care:

Trim your Barbet's nails every 3 to 4 weeks.

Use dog nail clippers and be careful not to cut too close to the "quick", which can cause bleeding.

Dental Care:

Dental care is important to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.

Brush your Barbet's teeth several times a week using dog toothpaste and provide dental chews to support oral health.

Flea Prevention:

If your Barbet gets fleas, treat them promptly with vet-recommended flea prevention products.

Regular grooming of your Barbet and cleaning of your dog’s bedding also helps control fleas.

Health Issues

Barbets are generally healthy but can be prone to some conditions, such as:

• Hip Dysplasia

• Elbow Dysplasia

• Ear Infections

• Epilepsy

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Preventive Health Care

When you buy from a reputable breeder, your pup should be scanned for:

• Hip Dysplasia

• Elbow Dysplasia

• Eye Conditions

Regular grooming can help prevent skin issues.

Regular Vet check-ups can also help maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce any risks.

Food and Diet

Feed your Barbet a balanced diet of high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Most adult Barbets do well on two meals per day.

If you have any doubts about what to feed your Barbet or how much to give them, you could consult your Vet for specific dietary recommendations and portion sizes.

Training and Socialising

Start training and socialisation early to develop a well-mannered dog.

Barbets respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise.

Expose your Barbet to different people, their pets, places, and noises to help build confidence and reduce fearfulness.

Exercise Requirements

Barbets require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Aim for 1 to 2 hours of physical activity, including swimming, retrieving games and brisk walks.

Games

Barbets enjoy games like:

• Fetch

• Hide-and-seek

• Swimming

• Agility Exercises that challenge their bodies.

• Puzzle games for active minds.

  
  

Buying from a Reputable Breeder

When buying a Barbet, look for a breeder who tests for common health issues and provides health clearances for the puppy’s parents.

A responsible breeder will also offer well-socialised puppies and be willing to let you observe all the puppies interacting with each other and with their mother. to answer your questions.

Avoid buying from puppy mills or unverified sources.

If you are unsure about the breeder, then walk away.

Final Thoughts

The Barbet is a wonderfully warm, people-focused dog with a playful spirit and a big heart.

With their curly coat, bright intelligence, and love of being involved in family life, they can be a fantastic companion for owners who enjoy training, outdoor time, and plenty of togetherness.

If you're looking for a cheerful, affectionate breed that thrives on attention and activity, the Barbet is a charming choice—just be ready to meet their exercise needs and keep that gorgeous coat well cared for.