Barbet

Breed Description

The Barbet is a French hunting dog specializing in waterfowl hunting. In German, it is also referred to as the “French water dog.” The breed’s name comes from the French word “barbe,” meaning “beard,” which hints at its thick hair on the head. It is considered an ancient breed and is said to be one of the ancestors of many modern dog breeds, including the Poodle, as well as various hunting dogs like the German Wirehaired Pointer, the Poodle Pointer, and the Griffon or Irish Water Spaniel.

Today’s Barbet was described as early as the late Middle Ages. Around 1750, the great Swedish zoologist Carl Linnaeus named these dogs “Canis aquaticus.” The Romans had already reported shaggy dogs working in water in France and the Iberian Peninsula. There are numerous tales about the exact origin of the Barbet, but mostly they are just fables without real evidence. Unraveling this mystery is an intriguing task. What is certain is that the Barbet loves water like no other. It is an absolute expert in water work, finding waterfowl in the thickest reeds, scaring them, and reliably retrieving them after a shot. It is an excellent swimmer, regardless of the weather. Cold water does not bother it; its unique coat provides protection.

The Barbet is also very adept at other hunting tasks, such as tracking. While it is a hunting dog, it also makes an excellent companion and family pet. Its high intelligence, openness, and affection for people make it a valuable partner and close friend.

The Barbet is a breed that dog enthusiasts often underestimate. Despite its enormous potential, it is friendly, low-maintenance, and easy-going-quite rare even in France. For a long time, the Barbet was extremely rare in Russia, with hardly any litters. Fortunately, in recent years, the situation has improved significantly. The number of puppies today is about 50 per year. However, this wonderful dog deserves much more love.

The price for a puppy ranges from 50,000 to 90,000 rubles.

Appearance

The Barbet, or French Water Dog, is a medium-sized dog with a shaggy, curly coat of medium length. Its fur resembles that of a poodle that hasn’t been groomed in a while. The fluffy coat immediately catches the eye as a trademark-this is not just a fashion whim like in some other dog breeds. The standard describes the Barbet as a dog of medium body proportions and size, distinguished by its thick, fluffy fur that provides effective protection against cold and moisture. The fur forms a beard on the chin (barbe), which is how the breed got its name.

Beneath the fluffy fur lies a slender dog with a long head and an elongated body shape. The Barbet is strong, agile, and athletic by nature. The following coat colors are allowed: solid black, gray, brown, brown, fawn, white, or more or less spotted. All shades of tan and fawn are permissible.

The height at the withers ranges from 58 to 66 centimeters for males and from 53 to 61 centimeters for females. The standard does not require a specific weight. How long does a Barbet live?

The lifespan of a Barbet should be around 12 years.

The appearance of the Barbet breed captivates with its unique beauty and elegance. Their proportions and characteristics make them recognizable and distinct among other breeds. Choosing a Barbet puppy with the right appearance will help you gain not only a wonderful companion but also a beautiful representative of this breed.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head of the Barbet has a rectangular shape, with a broad skull and a flat, wide rounded head. It should be proportional to the dog's body. The transition from the forehead to the muzzle should be smooth.

Морда

The muzzle is square and robust, with a nasal stop that should be well-developed. It should be about the same length as the skull and not too short. The lips will be slightly hanging and should cover the lower jaw.

Уши

Barbet ears are medium-length, flexible, and lie close to the head. They are covered in thick fur and have a slight curl at the ends. The ears should be set higher than the eyes, slightly wider, but close to the head.

Глаза

The eyes are oval, large, and expressive. Their color should match the coat. They are positioned at the same level as the forehead and are not protruding.

Зубы

Barbets have a strong jaw with a complete set of teeth. The teeth should be strong and white, with a normal bite that slightly overlaps.

Корпус

The body is strong and proportional. They have a straight back, strong neck, and deep chest. The rib cage should be wide and elongated, with a straight and powerful back.

Конечности

The legs are straight and strong, with well-formed toes. Barbets have small, soft paws with well-developed pads. The front legs of the barbet are straight and parallel to each other, with a good shoulder joint angle. The elbows should be close to the body. The hind legs of the barbet are also straight and parallel to each other, with a good hip joint angle. The shins should be short and sturdy.

Хвост

The tail is short and attached low. It should be carried vertically or slightly raised and may be left untrimmed or cut to a few vertebrae.

Шерсть

Barbet dogs have dense, spirally curlicue, waterproof fur that covers their entire body. It should be soft and silky to the touch with a sheen. The fur must be even and uniform across the entire body.

Окрас

The coloration of barbet dogs can vary, including black, white, gray, brown, orange, multicolored, and their various combinations. The coat should be rich and distinct, without patches or blur.

Character

The character of the Barbet breed is distinguished by its uniqueness and charm. They are known for their friendly, affectionate, and balanced demeanor, which makes them excellent companions and family pets.

The Barbet is an intelligent, lively, and sociable dog. Water is its element. The breed standard describes this animal as: Balanced, very leader-oriented, extremely sociable, and happy in water, even when it is very cold.

Like all modern dogs of the classic water type, their hunting instinct varies depending on personality. Barbets are obedient, careful, and easily trainable. They make a great companion and watchdog if their hunting abilities are taken into account. This friendly family dog is also a good partner for children. The Barbet is a passionate playmate. It also gets along very well with other four-legged housemates. Barbets are strong and easily adaptable dogs-athletic, fast, skilled, and persistent. They tend to be rather reserved towards strangers-at least initially. However, if they dislike an outsider, they are not aggressive; rather, they actively seek guidance from their owner. Because of this friendly set of characteristics, we can also recommend Barbets to owners who do not have extensive dog experience.

Barbets are very affectionate dogs; they love being close to their owners and have a high level of attachment. They often display non-aggressive and non-conflict behavior, making them ideal partners for children and other animals. Their unconditional love and loyalty make them favorites among many owners.

Dogs of this breed show friendliness and good sociability with everyone around. They have excellent communication skills and get along well not only with their family members but also with other dogs, people, and even unfamiliar children. This makes Barbets wonderful companions for maintaining social activity and interacting with other dog owners.

Barbets are active and energetic dogs that require ample physical activity and mental challenges to stay happy and healthy. They love long walks, running, playing, and engaging in sports activities. Barbets easily adapt to various forms of training and entertainment, making them excellent partners for active owners.The French breed is very smart and polite. They quickly learn commands, are easily trainable, and always strive to please their owners. Their ability to learn makes them ideal candidates for participation in various sports, exhibitions, and training. Barbets have a great memory and easily recall new commands and tricks.The character of the Barbet breed is one of its main attractive traits. Together with their friendliness, affection, activity, and intelligence, Barbets become wonderful pets and loyal friends for the whole family. Those looking for a companion dog with a great character will undoubtedly find the Barbet to be the perfect partner for many years to come.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for Barbets requires some attention and effort to keep them healthy and happy. It is important to provide them with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and special attention to their coat.

One of the main aspects of caring for Barbets is managing their lush, protective coat. Their fur is dense and waterproof, requiring regular brushing and grooming. Daily brushing helps prevent mats and tangles while keeping the coat in good condition.

Barbets shed very little. Due to their unique fur and affinity for water, they often bring a lot of dirt into the home. To prevent tangling, their coat needs to be regularly brushed and combed. The fur of a Barbet should be trimmed slightly here and there, but they should never lose their rustic, fluffy appearance, and their grooming should not follow the poodle style.

It is also very important to bathe Barbets regularly to maintain their soft, shiny coat. They have a special oil in their skin that helps keep their fur water-resistant, so it’s advised not to overdo weekly baths. It is recommended to use special shampoos for dogs with fluffy coats that have a gentle formula.

However, it’s important to remember that Barbets require care not only for their coat but also for their overall health. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite treatments are essential for Barbets. Additionally, proper nutrition is crucial to provide the dog with all necessary nutrients and vitamins.

Barbets are highly social dogs and need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Daily outdoor walks, playtime, and training will benefit their health and mood. They are very intelligent and enjoy learning and following commands. There are classes in various activities and sports where Barbets can participate and showcase their skills.In summary, caring for Barbets requires some time and effort. However, with the right nutrition, grooming, and regular exercise, you can ensure Barbets lead a healthy and happy life. They adapt well to family life and can become reliable and loyal companions for the entire family. Energetic and loving towards children, they will be faithful friends and frequent playmates for your child. Caring for a Barbet requires time and patience, but their affection and the joy they bring will be worth it.

Training and Education

Training and education of Barbet dogs are important aspects of their upbringing, which help to create a strong bond between the dog and the owner, as well as ensure safety and good control over the animal.

Barbets are known for their intelligent and curious nature, making them excellent learners. They quickly grasp commands and are eager to cooperate with their owners. However, it is important to start training and education at an early age to help them develop good skills and habits.

One of the key principles of training Barbets is positive reinforcement. They respond well to praise, affection, and tasty treats. Therefore, they should be encouraged and rewarded for correctly following commands. Negative punishment and harsh treatment are not recommended, as this can cause stress and negative associations for the dog.

Training commands is based on systematic repetition and gradual increases in complexity. Start with simple commands like “sit,” “lie down,” “fetch,” and “place.” Once the dog understands and executes these commands, you can move on to more complex ones like “retrieve,” “give a paw,” and others. It’s important to conduct short and regular training sessions to maintain the dog’s interest and attention.

Training Barbets also includes socialization. It is essential to get them accustomed to proper behavior in various situations. This could involve meeting other dogs, interacting with people, navigating noisy areas, or traveling on public transport. During socialization, it’s advisable to use constructive games and positive interactions to build the dog’s confidence and help it adapt to different scenarios.

Another aspect to consider when training Barbets is physical exercise. Barbets are energetic dogs that require sufficient physical activity to remain healthy and happy. Regular walks, playtime, and training will help meet their need for movement and prevent potential behavioral issues arising from pent-up energy.In conclusion, training and education of Barbet dogs are vital stages of their upbringing. With their intelligence, obedience, and curiosity, Barbets respond well to training. Positive reinforcement, systematic training, and socialization will help create a strong bond between you and your dog while ensuring you have a well-mannered and happy pet. With a patient and consistent approach, you can teach your Barbet good behavior, obedience, and the joy of companionship.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Barbet puppy is an important step that requires some research and thought. Here are a few tips that can help you make the right decision and select the right Barbet puppy.

Before starting your search for a puppy, study the characteristics, features, and care requirements of Barbets. Learn about their behavior, physical activity needs, and health to be prepared for the responsibilities associated with this breed.

It’s important to choose a trusted and experienced breeder who cares about the health and proper breeding of dogs. Inquire about the breeder’s reputation, experience, and breeding practices.

If you want to buy a Barbet puppy, you should contact a breeder associated with the French Retrievers Association in advance. Reputable breeders will be happy to provide you with comprehensive information and show you the litter, parents, and everything else in well-documented form. Litters of Barbets from well-known breeders are rare.

Review the puppy’s pedigree to learn about its ancestors. Check for the presence of genetic diseases or issues in the lineage. The cleaner and healthier the pedigree, the higher the likelihood that the puppy will be in good health.

Before making a decision, observe the Barbet puppies and their behavior. A good puppy should have an active and cheerful character, be socially adapted, and comfortable interacting with people and other dogs.It’s important to have a personal meeting with the puppy and its parents to see them in person and assess their temperament and appearance. Additionally, this will give you the opportunity to ask the breeder questions and obtain necessary information about the puppy and its parents.Make sure that the puppy has undergone initial veterinary checks and has all the necessary vaccinations. Determine what health guarantees and warranty conditions the breeder offers.Be prepared to ask the breeder questions and discuss all details related to acquiring a Barbet puppy. A good breeder should be willing to share their knowledge and experience, assist you in making a decision, and support you throughout the puppy’s upbringing and growth.Choosing a Barbet puppy is a responsible decision that will require time, research, and careful consideration. By following the above tips, you will be able to select the right puppy who will become a loyal and loving companion for many years. Lo

Health and Illnesses

Health and well-being of Barbet dogs are important aspects of their care that require some attention and care. Although Barbets are generally healthy dogs, like all breeds, they can encounter certain diseases and health issues.

One of the main problems faced by Barbets is allergies. They may exhibit allergic reactions to certain foods, dust, pollen, or other substances. If a dog shows signs of allergies, such as itching, skin rashes, or breathing issues, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Another common condition in Barbets is hip dysplasia. This hereditary disease can lead to tissue degeneration in the joint and movement problems. Regular veterinary visits and early detection of dysplasia can help manage this condition.

Barbets are also prone to certain eye problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma, or eyelid inflammation. It is important to regularly check the dog’s eyes and observe any changes in their appearance or behavior. Choosing the right food and regular vet visits can also help maintain the health of a Barbet’s eyes.

Additionally, Barbets can suffer from ear problems, such as middle ear inflammation or infections. They have long floppy ears that can fold and trap moisture, promoting bacterial growth. Regular ear cleaning and veterinary visits will help prevent problems and keep a Barbet’s ears in good condition.

The Barbet is a robust dog breed with no specific health problems. However, hair in the ears should be plucked from time to time to ensure good ventilation of the ear canals, helping to prevent ear infections.It is also important to pay attention to the teeth and oral cavity. Regular tooth brushing and preventing tartar buildup will help avoid gum disease and keep the dog’s teeth healthy.The health and well-being of Barbet dogs require regular medical check-ups, proper nutrition, and routine care. Being attentive to their health, early detection of possible issues, and regular veterinary visits will help ensure a long and healthy life for your Barbet. It is also essential to remember about the dog’s hygiene, including grooming, ear care, eye care, and dental hygiene. Love, care, and a healthy lifestyle will help your Barbet remain a joyful and healthy pet for many years.