Barbet
Updated November 30, 2025
Barbet
Updated November 30, 2025
The Barbet is an ancient French water dog breed, cherished for its intelligence, loyalty, and cheerful nature. They are adept at various dog sports and make excellent family companions for active owners.
Joyful, Intelligent, Obedient, Friendly, Loyal
35-65 pounds
19-24.5 inches
12-14 years
Black, Brown, Fawn, Grey, White, Cream
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Barbet
The Barbet is an ancient French water dog breed, cherished for its intelligence, loyalty, and cheerful nature. They are adept at various dog sports and make excellent family companions for active owners.
What Makes Barbets Special
The Barbet is a rustic and charming French water dog with a distinctive curly coat and a joyful, intelligent nature. They are loyal and affectionate companions that form strong bonds with their families.
Known for their love of water and retrieving, Barbets are energetic and playful, making them well-suited for active households. Their friendly and social disposition means they generally get along well with everyone.
Barbet History & Origin
The Barbet is an old French breed, with a history that dates back centuries. They were originally bred as versatile water dogs, used for flushing and retrieving waterfowl. The breed's name is derived from the French word 'barbe,' meaning beard.
References to a dog similar to the Barbet appear in literature as early as the 16th century.
The breed was once more common but saw its numbers decline significantly, almost facing extinction after the World Wars.
Dedicated breeders have worked to revive the breed, and it is slowly gaining popularity worldwide.
The Barbet was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2020.
Barbet Characteristics
Individual Variation
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Barbet Appearance
The Barbet has a medium-sized, well-proportioned body with a distinctive shaggy, curly coat that covers them from head to tail. They have a noticeable beard ('barbe' in French), which gives the breed its name.
Their expression is bright and intelligent, and they carry themselves with a joyful demeanor. The overall appearance is that of a robust and rustic water dog.
Physical Features
Ears
The ears are set at or below eye level, are long and flat, and are covered with long, curly hair.
Eyes
Their eyes are round, dark brown, and have an intelligent and joyful expression. They are often hidden by the hair on the face.
Nose
The nose is large with well-opened nostrils and is typically black or brown, depending on the coat color.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The Barbet has a long, dense, woolly, and curly coat that is a hallmark of the breed.
Coat Color
Common colors include solid black, brown, fawn, grey, and cream. White markings are permissible.
Tail
The tail is long, set low, and has a slight hook at the end. It is covered in hair.
Barbet Temperament
Barbets are known for their cheerful and goofy personality, often described as clownish. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly trainable.
This breed is very sociable and forms strong bonds with their families. They are known to be good with children and other pets, especially when socialized from a young age.
Barbets thrive on human companionship and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them poor guard dogs.
As water dogs, they have a natural love for swimming and retrieving. Their playful and active nature means they enjoy being involved in family activities, especially outdoors.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Barbets are a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-14 years. Responsible breeders screen for health conditions to which the breed can be predisposed.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, proper grooming, and screening for genetic conditions are key to a long and healthy life.
How to Care for a Barbet
The Barbet is an active and intelligent breed that requires regular exercise and significant grooming. They are social dogs that need to be a part of the family.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Adaptable, but a home with a fenced yard is preferred. They need room to play and exercise.
Climate Adaptability
They tolerate cold weather well due to their coat, but can be sensitive to high heat.
Apartment Living
Can adapt to apartment life with committed owners who provide enough exercise.
Best Suited For
Best for active individuals or families who can include their dog in their activities.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early and consistent socialization and training are essential. Provide a nutritious diet for growth and start grooming routines early.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their ability, monitor for health issues, and provide a comfortable living space. Joint supplements may be beneficial.
First-Time Owner Tips
A good choice for first-time owners who are active and willing to commit to their grooming and exercise needs.