Barbet
Affectionate, intelligent, and lively, the Barbet thrives as a loyal family companion. This curly-coated water dog brings joy with its playful spirit and gentle disposition.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
53–61 cm (male)
51–59 cm (female)
WEIGHT
18–28 kg (male)
14–23 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–14 years
Barbet: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Barbet isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Barbet's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Barbet is typically friendly, affectionate, and social, making it well-suited for families and compatible with children and other pets. This breed is known for its even temperament and adaptability.
Key Personality Traits
Affectionate and sociable with people and dogs
Quick learner, responds well to training
Needs regular activity and outdoor exercise
Enjoys games, water, and interactive play
Adjusts well to different home environments
Strengths
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Friendly and affectionate with families
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Low-shedding, curly coat reduces loose hair
- Good with children and other pets
Challenges
- Needs regular coat grooming and trimming
- Prone to ear infections due to hairy ears
- Requires daily mental and physical exercise
- Can become bored and destructive if unstimulated
- May be reserved with strangers at first
Protect your Barbet
Barbet can develop hip dysplasia and epilepsy. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Barbets are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Quick learner
Overall rating
The Barbet is intelligent and quick to learn, responding well to positive reinforcement and consistent training. It generally excels in obedience and enjoys tasks that challenge its mind.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
The Barbet has moderate to high energy levels and requires regular physical activity along with mental stimulation. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games help meet its exercise needs and prevent boredom.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Barbets are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Barbet would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Barbets are friendly, trainable, and eager to please, making them manageable for beginners.
Apartment Living
They adapt to apartments but need daily activity and mental stimulation.
Active Lifestyle
Their energy and love for exercise suit active owners with outdoor lifestyles.
Kids
Gentle, patient, and playful, Barbets are excellent with young children.
Multiple Pets
They are social and generally get along well with other pets.
Being Left Alone
Barbets dislike being alone and may develop separation anxiety if left for long hours.
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Barbets compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Barbet
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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