Barbet

• 
  Breeders
• 
  Owners
• 
  Stud Dogs
• 
  Puppies
• 
  Results
• 
  Clubs

History

The Barbet has a long and impressive history.

References to the Barbet date back to the 1700`s where it was common throughout central Europe.

The curly coated water-dog was referred to under a variety of names dependant on its usage and location, in England the 'great water dog' or the `rough haired water dog`, in Germany the 'pudelhund', in France, the barbet or caniche (which is derived from `chien canard` or duck dog) and in Italy the barbonne. The barbet takes its name from `barbe` the French for beard.

The Barbet excelled as a general hunting dog in the marshlands, estuaries and lakes of France where its thick woolly and curly coat, strength and stamina and good nose made it ideal for wild fowling in all weather.

The Barbet became enshrined in the French language with the phrase "Crott� comme un barbet" - to be as muddy as a barbet.

Throughout the 19th century the poodle and Barbet in France were much of the same dog, the female Barbet being called a caniche (as the poodle is now known in France). The onset of dogs becoming categorised into specific breeds rather than general types, saw the Barbet mixed with the regional griffon type dogs to work the land as well as water, as marshes and lakes were drained across Europe.

Over the last 40 years the Barbet has been slowly gaining in popularity and is now more commonly known as the French Water Dog for which its profuse curly coat gives it protection against water of any temperature.

Characteristics

The Barbet is a strong, medium sized dog and should be heavily boned. It has a non-shedding curly coat that covers the entire dog and wide nostrils for scenting. This gives this breed its characteristic rustic appearance and affirms its worth as a water retriever.