Exercise
Plan for at least 60 minutes of daily exercise plus mental work. Breeds with this profile stay more settled when activity includes both movement and mental engagement.
SportingMedium
France
FranceBarbet
Weight
35-65 lb
Height
20.5-24.5 in
Lifespan
12-14 yrs
Coat
Curly Long
A shaggy French water dog known for versatility, friendliness, and a dense curly coat.
Sporting group breedOrigin: FranceExercise needs: 4/5
Breed Names
Official, native, and commonly used variants
French Water Dog
SociableCheerfulIntelligentVersatileAffectionateActive
Weight
35-65 lb
Height
20.5-24.5 in
Lifespan
12-14 yrs
Coat
Curly Long
At A Glance
Daily living snapshot
A quick read on energy, upkeep, and what day-to-day life with this breed usually feels like.
Energy
High
Barking
Moderate
Drooling
Low
Shedding
Low
Grooming
4/5
First-time owner
Yes
Overview
The Barbet originated in France and was developed for water retrieving and all-purpose gun dog work. A shaggy French water dog known for versatility, friendliness, and a dense curly coat.
In daily life, this breed is often described as sociable, cheerful, intelligent. It can adapt if exercise is consistent and usually does best in active family homes that can keep up with coat care.
Temperament & Personality
SociableCheerfulIntelligentVersatileAffectionateActive
This breed tends to suit homes looking for a sociable, cheerful, intelligent companion, with daily rhythms shaped by high energy, moderate barking, and low drooling.
Coat type
Curly
Coat length
Long
Shedding
Low
Colors
Black, Brown, Fawn, Gray, White
Lifestyle Compatibility
Family Friendly5/5
Good with Kids4/5
Good with Dogs4/5
Good with Strangers4/5
Apartment Friendly3/5
Exercise Needs4/5
Grooming Needs4/5
Trainability4/5
Good fit if you want
- A family-friendly companion
- Room for routine exercise
- A more forgiving first ownership experience
Plan ahead for
- 4/5 exercise needs
- low shedding and coat upkeep
- moderate barking in daily life
Care Guide
Grooming
The long curly coat has low shedding and grooming demand rated 4/5. Brush regularly and stay current with ear, nail, and skin checks.
Training
This breed is responsive when training is positive and structured. Early socialization and short, consistent sessions usually produce the best results.
Nutrition
Feed a quality diet sized for a medium dog and keep body condition lean. Split daily portions into measured meals and adjust intake for activity level.
Behavior & Environment
Energy level
High
Barking level
Moderate
Drooling level
Low
Watchdog ability
3/5
Guard dog ability
1/5
Climate tolerance
Cold weather4/5
Heat tolerance3/5
Health Considerations
Common concerns to discuss with your vet and breeder.
Hip dysplasiaEpilepsyEar infections
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Barbet good for apartment living?
The Barbet can adapt if exercise is consistent. Daily structure and realistic exercise are the deciding factors.
How much exercise does a Barbet need?
Most Barbet dogs need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise plus mental work. Mental work helps just as much as physical activity for many individuals.
Is the Barbet good for first-time owners?
Yes, this breed can suit prepared first-time owners when training and care are consistent.
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