Gundog Group
Barbet
The Barbet is an ancient French water dog β one of Europe’s oldest gundog breeds, with records dating back to the 16th century. The Barbet is thought …
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Size
Medium
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Coat
Curly, Dense
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Energy
Medium-High
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Groom Every
8 weeks
Character
What is the Barbet like?
The Barbet is an ancient French water dog β one of Europe’s oldest gundog breeds, with records dating back to the 16th century. The Barbet is thought to be the ancestor of many modern water dog breeds including the Poodle and the Portuguese Water Dog. After nearly becoming extinct, the breed was carefully revived and the KC granted full recognition in recent years. They are sociable, intelligent, and affectionate dogs with a wonderful, joyful temperament. Their distinctive dense, curly coat and cheerful expression make them unmistakeable.
Social Skills
Barbet with Other Dogs
Barbets are sociable and friendly β joyful, outgoing dogs that typically get along well with other dogs, children, and people. Their gentle, cooperative nature makes them easy-going in canine company. They are affectionate with their family and welcoming of visitors. Their intelligence and willing nature make them straightforward to train. Early socialisation develops their natural sociability into confident, well-rounded character.
Grooming Guide
How to Groom a Barbet
The Barbet’s dense, curly coat requires regular brushing two to three times per week to prevent matting. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks for a thorough bath, blow dry, trim, nail clip, and ear clean maintains coat health. Their ears require weekly checking and cleaning β the combination of pendulous ears and curly coat near the ear canal creates ideal conditions for infection.
Free & Personalised
Get a personalised groom plan for your Barbet
Tell us about your dog and our AI builds a grooming plan β including personalised Magnesium treatment recommendations.
Pros
- βJoyful, sociable temperament
- βAncient French heritage
- βGood with children and other dogs
- βIntelligent and trainable
- βDistinctive, beautiful appearance
- βRecently KC recognised
Cons
- !Coat requires regular professional grooming
- !Ears very prone to infection
- !High exercise requirements
- !Rare β limited UK breed expertise
- !Need significant daily activity
- !Curly coat mats quickly without attention