Representatives of the Barbet breed are also called French water dogs. They are real hunters who can easily feed a bird, regardless of whether it is on the ground or in the water. The owners note the boundless dedication, friendliness and mischievous nature of their pets. Currently, the breed attracts sports people who prefer to lead an active lifestyle.
History of origin
This breed has several centuries, but there are no official versions of its origin. The first mentions and images of dogs with such appearance began to occur in the XIV century. It has been suggested that the barbets were once related to poodles., Portuguese water dogs and several other breeds, some of which did not live to our times.
Experts believe that the name of the breed comes from the French word, translated as “beard”. It is impossible to reliably identify all of its genetic ancestors, however, it is believed that the dogs were the result of crossing different breeds. By the end of the 19th century, clubs that were fond of barbets began to form.
At the same time, dogs were represented not only in their homeland, but also in the territories of other countries.
The first breed standard dates back to 1894. During the First and Second World Wars, it almost disappeared, but later it was restored. But even today barbettes are considered rare. Worldwide, there are only about 600 individuals.
Exterior
This breed is characterized by medium size. The constitution of barbets is quite strong. The height of the males 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.
Barbetas have a small head, a spout brown or black, round eyes, over which hangs a thick bangs. Ears are on the head, located approximately at eye level. The neck is small, the tail does not twist. The paws are muscular and straight.
Particular attention is drawn to the wool of these funny dogs. According to the standard, it should be rigid, with small curls going all over the body. Barbet coat can be both long and medium length. Most often, the conditions are affected by the conditions in which the animal lives. Shorthair by nature representatives of this breed does not exist.
Temperament
This dog is not suitable for every owner. Her activity knows no bounds. Calm and measured person will be difficult to cope with an active and mobile pet. The animal loves to play, comes to the delight of hunting, loves water very much. It needs to be wound up by owners who prefer to move a lot and will be happy for such an overactive companion.
Among the advantages of the breed can be noted the lack of aggressiveness, ingenuity and ability to succumb to training, as well as extremely friendly disposition.
However, there are dogs and disadvantages. They are very difficult to get used to the new conditions of life, quite noisy, have a sonorous voice and can bark without a reason. In addition, the barbets are touchy.
This dog will be a great companion for kids. She is patient, loves to play with small family members, but at the same time she can start playing around during the game 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 this neighborhood should be abandoned in order to avoid unpleasant consequences. Cats and their brethren usually do not consider prey and get on easily with them.
Guards and guards from representatives of this breed are useless. This is due to the good temper and gullibility of the barbets. They are easy to deceive and endear themselves. In addition, the little dogs do not know how to defend themselves and stand up to defend the owner.
They love guests very much, they can bark when strangers come, but then they rush to them to make friends. Some remain for quite a short time. Dogs need to communicate, they try not to depart far from the beloved master.
Tips for choosing puppies
The first thing that experts recommend paying attention to people who decide to have puppies of this breed is hyperactivity. To a calm and lazy person, such a pet is definitely not suitable. The owner must take into account that this dog requires frequent and long walks. She will follow 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 stroked and communicate. If all this does not frighten the future owner, he should contact a specialized nursery and select a puppy.
Since the breed is very rare, buying an animal from the hands or from dubious breeders will be a mistake. Great chance to run into dishonest sellers and get a mongrel pet. It should be borne in mind that the dog looks very similar to the Spanish and Portuguese water dogs.as well as an American or Irish Spaniel.
The first contact is very important. A puppy should show interest in the future owner, communicate with him without fear, treat trustfully and kindly.
It should be evaluated and 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 the warm booth is located. The main thing - to provide regular exercise.
It is not recommended to close barbets in the apartment or in the aviary for a long time. They need to move a lot, so they can’t do without long walks, trainings and games. Dogs will be happy to spend time with the owner-athlete. They can not only assist in the hunt, but will also participate in sports games, such as, for example, canicross, flyball and the like.
Well, if the owner of the day is time for jogging. Barbet will get great pleasure from participating in this process. But also we must not forget that it is not by chance that they were called water dogs. If on the way there is a reservoir, the dog happily swims in it. Water procedures dogs can take even in the cool season, as they are owners of thick skin and thick hair, so they are not afraid of the cold.
How to care?
Barbet wool practically does not cause allergies. In addition, they almost do not shed. However, care is still required.
It is necessary to comb the wool weekly, otherwise it will mess up in mats. Some dogs need to carry out the procedure even more often, it all depends on the condition of the coat. And also it is necessary to take into account that an active dog during a walk will collect a lot of garbage, grass and leaves, which must be removed every time.
In dogs of this breed, wool grows all the time. They need to be cut regularly. This will not only improve the appearance of the dog, but also facilitate care.
Wool on the body should be about 8-10 centimeters long.
It is necessary to monitor the condition of the ears and eyes of the pet weekly and clean them if necessary. And also the little dogs will need to trim the claws as they grow. If you follow these rules, the pet will always look good.
Nutrition
With barbet nutrition, problems also usually do 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.
With regard to natural nutrition, it is better to consult with a specialist, so that the diet contains all the necessary nutrients and vitamins. If the dog is too active, it can be given slightly larger portions. And also more satisfying it needs to be fed in winter and in the hunting season. If the food is organized properly, the pet will feel great and look good.
Health and life expectancy
The genetics of these dogs is quite good, so they are distinguished by good health. However, sometimes there are problems with the joints. Another weak point is the eyes. To exclude atrophy of the retina, you need to observe the dog with experts and in time to pass the necessary tests.
Very rarely, but it happens that barbets are disturbed by allergic reactions. If it is wrong to care for the ears, there is a risk of otitis. In addition, we must not forget about the prevention of possible diseases. The dog will need to put the necessary vaccinations, process it from parasites.
A healthy dog lives on average about 10 years.
Features of training
These dogs are very clever and quick-witted, therefore it is easy for them to memorize commands. Barbets are exceptionally obedient, often become winners of exhibitions and marathons. However, the training itself is a rather difficult process, requiring the host to have endless patience.
Difficulties do not arise because barbety are stupid or stubborn. They are too active, so they can not sit still. Dogs love praise, so in the case of the assignment on it can not be stingy. And also you will need treats to promote.
However, the most important thing is trust with the host and mutual affection.
To learn how to train a barbet, see the video below.
