Representatives of the breed of barbet are also called French water dogs. They are real hunters who can easily feed the bird, regardless of whether it is on the ground or in the water. The owners note the unlimited devotion, friendliness and mischievous nature of their pets. Currently, the breed attracts athletic people who prefer to lead an active lifestyle.
Origin history
This breed has several centuries, however, there are no official versions of its origin. The first references and images of dogs with such an appearance began to be found in the XIV century. There is speculation that barbets were once related to poodles., Portuguese water dogs and several other breeds, some of which did not survive to our times.
Experts believe that the name of the breed comes from the French word, translated meaning "beard." It is impossible to reliably identify all of her genetic ancestors, but there is an opinion that the dogs were the result of crossing different breeds. Towards the end of the 19th century, clubs began to form, fond of barbets.
At the same time, dogs were represented not only in their homeland, but also in other countries.
The first breed standard dates from 1894. During the First and Second World Wars, it almost disappeared, but later managed to revive it. But even today, barbets are considered rare. Around the world, only about 600 individuals live.
Exterior
This breed is characterized by medium size. The build of the barbets is quite strong.Male growth should be from 58 to 65 centimeters, female - from 53 to 61 centimeters. Weight can reach from 23 to 25 and from 17 to 23 kilograms, respectively.
Barbets have a small head, brown or black nose, round eyes, over which thick bangs hang. Ears lie on the head, located approximately at eye level. The neck is small, the tail does not twist. The legs are muscular and straight.
Particular attention is attracted to the hair of these funny dogs. According to the standard, it should be rigid, small curls go all over the body. The coat of barbets can be both long and medium length. Most often, the conditions in which the animal dwells affect the length. Shorthair by nature representatives of this breed do not exist.
Temperament
Such a dog is not suitable for every owner. Her activity knows no bounds. It will be difficult for a calm and measured person to cope with an active and active pet. The animal loves to play, is delighted with hunting, loves water very much. It needs to be made to owners who prefer to move a lot and will be happy with such a hyperactive companion.
Among the advantages of the breed can be noted the lack of aggressiveness, ingenuity and the ability to succumb to training, as well as an exceptionally friendly disposition.
However, the dogs also have disadvantages. They are very difficult to get used to new living conditions, quite noisy, have a clear voice and can bark for no reason. In addition, barbets are touchy.
This dog will be a great companion for children. She is patient, loves to play with small family members, but at the same time during the game she can start indulging and accidentally push the child, so parents need to be careful.
Relations with rodents and birds are quite tense - a well-developed hunting instinct makes itself felt, so you should refuse such a neighborhood in order to avoid unpleasant consequences. Usually she doesn’t consider cats and her brethren for prey and easily gets along with them.
Guards and watchmen from representatives of this breed turn out to be useless. The fault is the good temper and gullibility of barbets. They are easy to fool and win over. In addition, dogs do not know how to defend themselves and defend the owner.
They love guests very much, they can bark at the arrival of strangers, but immediately rush to them to make friends. Some remain for a rather short time. Dogs need communication, they try not to leave far from their beloved master.
Puppy Tips
The first thing that experts recommend paying attention to people who decide to have puppies of this breed is hyperactivity. Such a pet is definitely not suitable for a calm and lazy person. The owner must consider that this dog needs frequent and long walks. She will be on the heels of family members, not allowing to be alone. In this case, you will have to forget about silence and measured life.
The original appearance and active behavior of the pet will attract the attention of strangers. The animal loves to show love and affection, adores when it is stroking and communicating. If all this does not frighten the future owner, he should contact a specialized nursery and choose a puppy.
Since the breed is very rare, buying an animal from your hands or from dubious breeders will be a mistake. Great chance to run into unscrupulous sellers and get an unclean pet. Keep in mind that the dog looks very much like the Spanish and Portuguese water dogs.as well as the American or Irish Spaniel.
The first contact is very important. The puppy should show interest in the future owner, communicate with him without fear, be trusting and friendly.
It should also evaluate the appearance of the pet. A healthy baby is active, curious, moves a lot. His coat looks well-groomed, there is no discharge from the nose and eyes.In this case, the owner can be sure that he is getting a healthy dog.
Content Features
As for the conditions of detention, there are usually no difficulties. The pet is quite unpretentious, it will feel comfortable both in the city apartment and in the aviary, where a warm booth is located. The main thing is to provide regular physical activity.
It is not recommended to close barbets in an apartment or in an aviary for a long time. They need to move a lot, so you can not do without long walks, training and games. Dogs will enjoy spending time with the owner-athlete. They can not only help on the hunt, but will also participate in sports games, such as, for example, Holidays Cross, Flyball and the like.
It’s great if there is time for jogging in the owner’s day mode. Barbets will take great pleasure in participating in this process. But also we must not forget that they were not accidentally called water dogs. If there is a pond along the route, the dog happily bathes in it. Dogs can take water procedures even in the cool season, as they are owners of thick skin and thick hair, therefore they are not afraid of the cold.
How to care?
Barbet wool does not cause allergies. In addition, they almost do not fade. However, care will still be required.
The hair needs to be combed out weekly, otherwise it will be tangled up in tangles. Some dogs will need to perform the procedure even more often, it all depends on the condition of the coat. And also you need to consider that an active dog during a walk will collect a lot of garbage, grass and leaves, which must be removed every time.
Dogs of this breed grow their hair all the time. They need to be cut regularly. This will not only improve the appearance of the doggie, but also facilitate care.
The coat on the body should be about 8-10 centimeters long.
Weekly, you need to monitor the condition of the ears and eyes of the pet and, if necessary, clean them. And also doggies will need to cut their nails as they grow. If you follow these rules, the pet will always look good.
Food
With food barbeta also usually does not arise. They are completely picky. The type of food can be any, it all depends on the preferences of the owner. The dog will be happy to eat both dry food and natural products.
As for natural nutrition, it is better to consult with a specialist so that all the necessary nutrients and vitamins are present in the diet. If the dog is too active, you can give her a little more voluminous portions. And also more satisfying it needs to be fed in the winter and in the hunting season. If the food is organized correctly, the pet will feel great and look good.
Health and Life Expectancy
The genetics of these dogs is quite safe, so they are distinguished by good health. However, sometimes there are problems with the joints. Another weak point is the eyes. To exclude retinal atrophy, you will need to observe a dog at specialists and take the necessary tests in time.
Very rarely, but it happens that Barbet allergic reactions. If the ears are not properly looked after, there is a risk of otitis media. In addition, we must not forget about the prevention of possible diseases. Doggie will need to be given the necessary vaccinations, treated against parasites.
A healthy dog lives on average about 10 years.
Training Features
These dogs are very smart and quick-witted, so remembering the commands is easy for them. Barbets are extremely obedient, often becoming winners of exhibitions and marathons. However, the training itself is a rather difficult process, requiring unlimited patience from the owner.
Difficulties arise not because barbets are stupid or stubborn. They are too active, so they can not sit still. Dogs love praise, so if you complete a task, you cannot skimp on it. And also goodies will be needed for promotion.
However, the most important thing is trusting relationships with the owner and mutual affection.
See how to train Barbet in the video below.
