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Barbet
Complete Breed Guide

"Wanna join me for a swim?"

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Reviewed by
Puppies.com Editorial Team
Breed experts since 2003
Last updated: April 2026
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Barbet breed photo

Quick Facts About Barbets

sporting
Breed Group:
Sporting
Weight
Adult Weight:
35–65 lbs
Height
Adult Height:
19–24"
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
Barbet Average Price
$325

Based on current listing prices on Puppies.com. Results may vary.

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Overview

The Barbet is a smart, sweet dog that makes friends wherever they go. With a cute, curly coat, a passion for swimming, and plenty of love to go around, these pups are the perfect pal for families and other furry friends.

Underneath the Barbet’s long, wooly coat is a sweet companion that loves being in the water almost as much as being by your side. These French water dogs bond quickly with their families and stay glued to their side wherever they go. In fact, they often grow so attached that they may not want to be left alone and could suffer from separation anxiety. Barbets make friends quickly, so keeping them around children, cats, and dogs is an easy way to satisfy their craving for companionship. They may require a little more attention and grooming than normal, but these pups are sure to keep your body warm and your heart happy.

Puppies.com
Reviewed by
Puppies.com Editorial Team
Breed experts since 2003

Temperament and Behavior

The Barbet is a smart, happy, and friendly dog who wants nothing but to be by your side. They love being a member of the family, and once they bond with you, they’ll follow you wherever you go. Barbets also learn quickly and love activities like swimming and waterfowl hunting, especially when you’re with them while they do it.

Coat & Grooming

The Barbet has a double coat of long, wooly, curly hair. They come in black, brown, fawn, or cream, and sometimes have white markings. Barbets need regular brushing and combing to keep their coat from getting tangled or matted, which happens even quicker when they go for a swim or play in the water.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Barbets are medium-sized dogs that can live in almost any setting. However, they crave companionship and don’t like to be left alone for long. This breed also loves any interaction they can get, whether it’s from children, dogs, or cats. They’re especially loving and gentle with kids. Barbets are sporting dogs, so they may chase other animals, but with training and socialization, they can learn to be on their best behavior.

Exercise & Activity

As sporting dogs, Barbets are used to getting exercise every day. They love taking a long walk, swimming, and doing just about any activity as long as you’re there. Barbets enjoy running around and playing outside, but at the end of the day, their favorite spot is a comfy place where they can relax by your side.

Characteristics at-a-glance

Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.

Affection
Playfulness
Trainability
Intelligence
Exercise Needs
Grooming
Good w/ Kids
Good w/ Dogs
Good w/ Cats
Watchdog
Barking Level
Space Needs
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Barbet FAQs

Common questions about the Barbet breed, answered by our editorial team.

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