Barbet

Breed Overview

The Barbet is a medium-sized French breed with a long, woolly coat. They are brave, friendly, loyal, and affectionate dogs that love their family. They were bred to be water retrievers and can be seen in the French entree of the Westminster Kennel Club. They are considered an excellent family dog due to their intelligence, gentle nature, and calmness around children.

Care and Grooming

Barbets have a thick, long coat that needs to be regularly brushed to keep it from matting. They also require regular bathing to keep their coat looking its best. Additionally, their nails should be trimmed regularly and their ears should be cleaned to prevent infection.

Training and Socialization

Barbets are intelligent and respond best to positive reinforcement. They are relatively easy to train and should be socialized from a young age to help prevent behavioral issues.

Health and Wellness

Like any breed, Barbets are susceptible to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and various skin diseases. Therefore, regular visits to the vet are important for maintaining the long-term health of your dog.

Living Environment

Barbets can live in almost any living environment, including apartments. However, they should be allowed plenty of daily exercise, preferably in an enclosed, secure area. Additionally, they should not be left alone for extended periods of time or they may develop behavioral issues.

Temperament and Personality

Barbets are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and gentleness. They are loving and affectionate towards their family, but also have a protective streak and will sound the alarm if they sense danger. Therefore, they make excellent watchdogs.

Common Challenges

The most common challenge with Barbets is their long, thick coat, which requires daily regular maintenance. Additionally, they can become bored easily and can develop behavioral issues if they are left alone for extended periods of time.