Discover Everything About Barbet
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
Barbet overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
The Barbet is considered a robust breed, but it carries an average genetic burden that can be well managed through targeted breeding screenings. Hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are important considerations for a dog of this size, which are minimized through mandatory health tests of the parent animals. In addition, buyers should look for genetic tests for the blood clotting disorder Von Willebrand disease (vWD I) and the eye condition PRA-PRCD to rule out genetic risks.
Lifespan
13–15 yrs
Height
53–65 cm
Weight
15–27 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,500 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Curly, long, with an undercoat
- Origin: France
Typical coat colors
- Black
- Gray
- Brown
- Fawn
- White
- Multicolor
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Barbet, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the Barbet right for you?
The Barbet is a rustic, cooperative Apportierhund (retriever) — bred to tirelessly retrieve waterfowl in cold, wet marshes, which makes him a cheerful but high-maintenance nature enthusiast today.
Perfect for you if:
- You are looking for a close, cooperative companion for daily dummy training or intensive scent work near water.
- You are looking for a people-oriented dog that forms a strong bond with its family and does not like to live in isolation.
- You prefer to spend your free time outdoors in nature, regardless of the weather.
- You are prepared to invest time in elaborate coat care, as he does not shed but mats quickly.
Less ideal if:
- You expect him to walk past puddles — as a true water dog, he will unerringly find every mud hole.
- You plan to leave him alone for long periods every day, as he quickly becomes frustrated without connection and tasks.
- You are extremely meticulous about cleanliness in the house, as his dense curly coat absorbs water and dirt like a sponge.
- You are not prepared to work on impulse control when birds suddenly take flight at the lakeshore.
The real vibes check
A Barbet is like a high-quality all-weather tire: he thrives exactly when other dogs have long since wanted to head back to the dry. You get a highly intelligent, humorous buddy who will go through every swamp for you and really wants to work with you every single day. The downside? Your hallway will often look like a small wetland habitat.
Breed Profile
The Barbet is a medium-sized water dog that immediately catches the eye with its curly, long coat and athletic build. Its fur is dense and has an undercoat, which not only makes it look unique but also provides excellent insulation when working in the water. Coat color varies and can be black, gray, brown, fawn, white or multicolored. He belongs to FCI Group 8, the group of retrieving, searching and water dogs. Compared to some other breeds, the Barbet does not differentiate between show and performance lines, meaning that all dogs in the breed share essentially the same traits and characteristics.
| Height | 53 - 61 cm (Female), 58 - 65 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 15 - 20 kg (Female), 17 - 27 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 13 - 15 years |
| Character | Playful, affectionate, intelligent |
| Coat | Curly, long, with an undercoat |
| Coat Color | Black, Gray, Brown, Fawn, White, Multicolor |
| Price | 1500 - 2500 € |
History
The Barbet is an ancient French breed whose exact origins are not certain, but it is believed to have existed as early as the Middle Ages. Its name comes from the French word "barbe", meaning "beard" means - a fitting name for a dog with such distinctive facial hair. The barbet was traditionally used as a water dog, retrieving birds and other prey from the water. It is closely related to other European water dogs such as the Portuguese water dog and the Spanish water dog. The breed has always had a strong place in France, but its numbers declined dramatically after the two world wars. However, thanks to the efforts of dedicated breeders in the 1970s and 80s, the breed was revived. The Barbet was recognized as a separate breed by the American Kennel Club in 2007.
The Barbet was bred as a water hunting dog for duck hunting and is known for its thick, curly coat.
France
1500
Character & Temperament
The Barbet is known for its playful and affectionate nature. He is very people-oriented and enjoys being part of the family. His intelligence and desire to please make him a great companion and a great working dog. Compared to some other breeds, the Barbet is a relatively active dog. He has a lot of energy and needs daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. He loves swimming and fetching, and he's also good at agility and other dog sports. The Barbet is generally a very social dog. He gets along well with people and other animals, including other dogs. He is also good with children as long as they treat him with respect and consideration. The Barbet is a very alert dog. He will definitely let you know if someone is at the door or if something unusual is going on around him. However, he is not an excessive barker and will usually only bark if he has a good reason to. As for being alone, the Barbet can learn to be alone, but he prefers to be with his family. He may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. The barbet sometimes exhibits distinctive prey and hunting behavior, which stems from its history as a water dog. He has a strong retrieving instinct and can sometimes chase birds or other small animals. It is important that he is trained to walk on a leash from a young age and that he is kept in a safe, fenced area when not under direct supervision. Overall, the Barbet is a great breed for people looking for an active, intelligent and social dog. It has a lot to offer and can be a wonderful companion for the right person or family. It's important that he gets the exercise and mental stimulation he needs and that he is treated as part of the family. With the right care and training, the Barbet can be a great companion and friend.
| Trainability Picks up commands quickly and wants to please. | Eager to learn |
| Watchfulness Occasionally alerts but is fundamentally open. | Low |
| Openness to Strangers Warms up quickly and is generally welcoming. | Friendly |
| Hunting or Herding Drive Mild interest in movement and small animals — easily managed. | Low |
Fun Fact!
Did you know that the name "Barbet" from the French word "barbe" comes from what "beard" means? This refers to the characteristic "bearded" Appearance of this lovable dog breed.
What Awaits You
The distinctive feature of this rustic, medium-sized bird dog is the thick, curly fur that covers it from the crown of its large, broad head to the tip of its curved tail. The breed's delightfully shaggy coat and amiable nature give the impression of a Muppet come to life, but the Barbet is a strong, solidly built dog that has been bred for centuries to be an avid hunter and tireless swimmer. He has a calm nature and is easy to train as long as his need for exercise is met. The barbet is an agile athlete that is primarily used to track, scare and retrieve birds. He has a cheerful disposition and is very social and loyal.
Housing & Care
Barbets are extremely social dogs that love being close to their people. They are well suited to city life as long as they get enough physical and mental activity. Small children are usually not a problem for Barbets; they are known for their patience and loving nature with children. They also typically get along well with other pets, including cats, although early socialization is always recommended.
| Family Friendly Lives for its family — the born family companion. | Ideal family dog |
| Child Friendly Extraordinarily patient and loving — a true family dog. | Excellent with children |
| Dog Friendly Actively enjoys the company of other dogs. | Dog-friendly |
| City Friendly Adapts well to city living and urban environments. | Well-suited to city life |
Owning a dog is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. If you want to bring a dog into your life, you must be aware of the commitment that dog ownership entails!!
Training & Education
Barbets are intelligent, willing to learn, and generally easy to train. They respond very well to positive reinforcement and benefit from early socialization and consistent but gentle training. They love completing tasks but can also be stubborn when bored, so training should be kept varied and interesting. Since Barbets are originally water and retrieving dogs, they are well suited to sports such as agility, obedience and even water rescue. A healthy level of physical and mental activity is important to avoid over-busyness and stress. Since they can be prone to ball addiction, the ball should not be the only form of play and activity. Learning frustration tolerance and impulse control can also be helpful in having a well-balanced dog.
Nutrition & Care
A balanced diet is essential for the Barbet. Because they are prone to hip dysplasia, a diet aimed at maintaining a healthy weight and supporting joints can be particularly beneficial. When selecting food, attention should be paid to the quality and the specific needs in the different phases of life. Nutritional advice from your veterinarian can be helpful. Barbet care requires a little more effort. Their curly, water-resistant coats are prone to matting and should be brushed regularly. They have a dense undercoat and therefore cope well with the German climate. However, they shed relatively little compared to many other breeds.
| Care Level Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs Needs 1–2 hours of real exercise daily. | Active |
| Shedding No or minimal hair loss — suitable for allergy sufferers. | No shedding |
| Trainability Picks up commands quickly and wants to please. | Eager to learn |
This information is currently being reviewed by experts. If you discover an error, please send an email to info@honestdog.de!!
Health
Solid
Health grade
The Barbet is considered a robust breed, but it carries an average genetic burden that can be well managed through targeted breeding screenings. Hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are important considerations for a dog of this size, which are minimized through mandatory health tests of the parent animals. In addition, buyers should look for genetic tests for the blood clotting disorder Von Willebrand disease (vWD I) and the eye condition PRA-PRCD to rule out genetic risks.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
You should ensure joint-friendly rearing, consistently groom the curly coat to avoid matting, and schedule regular eye check-ups.
The breeder's role
Reputable breeders have the hips, elbows, and eyes of the parent animals tested and, because of the small gene pool, strictly pay attention to lines without neurological or autoimmune diseases.
No Health Tests Available
No specific health tests are currently available for this breed.
Experiences with the Barbet
Silke M., Halterin aus Schleswig-Holstein (Hündin, seit 2021)
Als wir uns für einen Barbet entschieden haben, wollten wir unbedingt diesen typischen, wuscheligen „Bären-Look“. Was wir anfangs unterschätzt haben, ist der enorme Pflegeaufwand, der damit einhergeht. Das weiche, lockige Fell filzt unglaublich schnell – besonders an den Ohren, im Bart, unter den Achseln und am Bauch. Wenn man da nicht fast täglich mit Bürste, Striegel und Kamm hinterher ist, bilden sich schnell dichte Filzplatten, die man am Ende nur noch komplett bis auf die Haut abscheren kann.
Auch der Mythos, dass Barbets überhaupt nicht haaren, stimmt so nicht ganz. Sie verlieren zwar keine typischen Stichelhaare, die überall an der Kleidung nadeln, aber beim Bürsten holt man bergeweise totes Haar heraus. Und wenn sich der Hund kratzt, fliegen durchaus mal Haarbüschel durch die Wohnung.
Für uns ist sie trotzdem ein absoluter Traumhund. Sie ist extrem menschenbezogen, freundlich und will einfach immer dabei sein. Man muss sich nur im Klaren darüber sein, dass das Fell in Kombination mit ihrer Liebe zu Schlamm, Pfützen und Waldspaziergängen echte Arbeit bedeutet. Wer einen pflegeleichten Hund sucht, ist hier falsch.
Jonas B., Halter aus Hessen (Rüde, seit 2018)
Unser Rüde ist mittlerweile sechs Jahre alt und ein treuer, aber auch sehr fordernder Begleiter. Was man vor dem Kauf wissen sollte: Der Barbet ist ein absoluter „Klette-Hund“. Er folgt uns auf Schritt und Tritt durchs Haus und das Alleinbleiben war von Anfang an eine unserer größten Baustellen. Wenn man einen sehr eigenständigen Hund sucht, der auch mal entspannt ein paar Stunden alleine in der Ecke liegt, ist diese Rasse eher ungeeignet.
Zudem hat er eine sehr starke Persönlichkeit. Die Erziehung erfordert extrem viel Konsequenz und Geduld, da er durchaus seinen eigenen Kopf hat. Auch gesundheitlich gibt es ein paar Dinge zu beachten: Er ist ein recht wählerischer Fresser und hat einen sehr empfindlichen Magen – Durchfall steht leider öfter auf der Tagesordnung, besonders wenn er draußen heimlich etwas aufstöbert.
Ein weiteres Thema ist die Hitze im Sommer. Durch das dichte Fell überhitzt er sehr schnell, weshalb wir in der warmen Jahreszeit große Runden nur sehr früh morgens oder spät abends drehen können. Trotz dieser Herausforderungen würden wir uns jederzeit wieder für einen Barbet entscheiden, weil sein liebevolles Wesen einfach alles wettmacht.
Christian T., Halter aus Bayern (Rüde, seit 2020)
Wir haben uns den Barbet ganz bewusst als aktiven Begleiter ausgesucht, da wir viel in der Natur unterwegs sind. Und was soll ich sagen: Seine Passion für das Wasser ist unbeschreiblich. Er stöbert leidenschaftlich gern im Schilf und im Sumpf. Selbst im tiefsten Winter, wenn kleine Eisschollen auf dem Wasser treiben, hält ihn nichts zurück – sein dichtes, wolliges Fell schützt ihn perfekt vor der Kälte.
Man darf allerdings nicht vergessen, dass der Barbet ein echter Jagdhund (speziell für Federwild) ist. Sein Apportiertrieb und das Interesse an Enten und Vögeln sind extrem ausgeprägt. Das erfordert im Alltag ein konsequentes Antijagdtraining und viel Aufmerksamkeit bei Spaziergängen in Wald- und Gewässernähe.
In der Ausbildung zeigt er sich sehr führerbezogen und lernt schnell, kann aber auch mal stur reagieren, wenn das Training zu eintönig oder langweilig wird. Man muss ihn geistig und körperlich fordern, sonst sucht er sich selbst Beschäftigung. Für aktive Menschen, die gerne Dummytraining oder Wasserarbeit machen, ist er jedoch der perfekte, loyale Partner.
sinngemäß aus echten Halterberichten
Community Posts
Sell Barbet Puppies
Breeding Barbet? Reach responsible puppy buyers and showcase your kennel on HonestDog.
Loading...
Frequently asked questions about the Barbet
Is a Barbet the right dog for me?
The Barbet is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Barbet live?
The average life expectancy of a Barbet is 13-15 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Barbet need?
Barbet grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Barbet good for families with children?
The Barbet can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
Barbet Breeders Near You
Find verified Barbet breeders in your region
Popular puppy searches
Other breeds with available puppies from verified breeders
Why HonestDog?
What makes HonestDog different from other platforms
Transparency Guarantee
We provide complete transparency in the breeding process, offering detailed information about breeders, their practices, health checks, and genetic testing results in an easily understandable format, ensuring buyers can make informed decisions confidently.
Responsible Breeding Assurance
Our platform prioritizes responsible breeding practices, ensuring all breeders meet stringent criteria including health checks and genetic testing for parent dogs, eliminating the worry of encountering unethical breeders or puppy mills.
Trust and Verification
HonestDog verifies both breeders and buyers, fostering a trusted community where interactions are reliable and secure, setting a new standard for trustworthiness in the dog breeding industry.
Convenience and Time Saving
By featuring thoroughly vetted breeders and providing comprehensive information, HonestDog saves buyers valuable time that would otherwise be spent researching and vetting breeders, allowing them to focus on choosing the perfect puppy for their family.
Our Mission
We connect dog lovers with responsible breeders and shelters to ensure every dog finds the perfect home.
Founded by dog enthusiasts, our platform focuses on ethical dog breeding and adoption.
Why HonestDog?
We connect you with vetted breeders and shelters so you can find your new companion with confidence.
Vetted Partners
Only verified breeders and shelters — for a safe start.
Highest Standards
Every animal's health and wellbeing is our top priority.
Guides & Resources
Guides, checklists, and breed profiles — so you can make a well-informed decision.