
Quick Facts
- Suitable for owners with a bit of experience; benefits from consistent training and socialization
- Intelligent and eager to please; responds well to treats
- Moderate exercise needs
- Medium-sized dog
- Low drooling tendency
- High grooming needs; regular brushing and trimming to maintain coat health
- Hypoallergenic breed; may be suitable for some allergy sufferers
- Generally quiet; may bark to alert
- Friendly and alert; may act as a watchdog
- Generally good with other pets if properly socialized
- Good with children; supervision recommended
History and Origin
The Barbet, a curly-coated canine wonder, has been wading through history with style, smarts, and a flair for the “aquatic”. Known as the “French Water Dog,” this breed boasts a past as rich and textured as its iconic coat. Its roots are theorized to stretch back to medieval Europe, where it was a favorite of hunters, retrieving waterfowl from lakes, rivers, and marshes. If there were ever a dog designed to be a walking (and swimming) multitool, the Barbet would be it.
Origins: Making Waves in Medieval Europe
The Barbet’s story begins in France, where its name comes from the French word “barbe,” meaning beard—an apt nod to the breed’s shaggy, bearded face. While not much is definitively documented about its earliest days, Barbet-like dogs are believed to have existed as early as the 14th century. These dogs were celebrated for their skill in locating and retrieving game from water, no matter how frigid or muddy the conditions.
It’s also theorized that the Barbet’s ancestors may have arrived in Europe via trade routes, potentially with ties to ancient water dogs from regions like North Africa or the Middle East. While these theories aren’t universally agreed upon, they offer a fascinating lens into the Barbet’s potential global connections.
The Barbet wasn’t just a workhorse, though—it was also a charmer. Revered for its intelligence and good-natured personality, it found favor among both commoners and nobility. Some experts even suggest that the Barbet may have contributed to the development of other curly-coated breeds, such as the Poodle and Portuguese Water Dog, given their shared traits and similar historical roles.
Beyond its hunting prowess, the Barbet has always been a dog of many hats—or perhaps many collars. Renowned for its versatility, it could flush out game from dense undergrowth one moment and snuggle up by the fire the next. Its woolly, waterproof coat wasn’t just practical for braving icy waters; it also gave the Barbet an unmistakably distinguished look, making it a popular subject of 18th-century art and literature.
Decline and Revival: A Hairy Situation
The Barbet’s popularity began to wane in the 19th and 20th centuries, as industrialization and modern hunting methods reduced the need for traditional water dogs. By the mid-1900s, the breed was on the brink of fading into obscurity, overshadowed by more widely known descendants like the Poodle.
However, dedicated breeders in France recognized the Barbet’s unique history and began efforts to revive it. These programs focused on preserving its original traits: intelligence, adaptability, and, of course, that fabulous curly coat. Slowly but surely, the Barbet made a comeback, regaining recognition as a rare yet cherished breed.
Today, the Barbet remains one of the lesser-known breeds but is gaining traction among dog lovers who appreciate its history, charm, and versatility. Whether splashing through ponds or lounging on the couch, this breed has an undeniable knack for winning hearts.

Fun Facts about Barbets
- Curly and waterproof: That dense, curly coat isn’t just for show. It’s waterproof, helping the Barbet stay warm and dry during those long swims in cold water.
- Ancient roots: The Barbet is one of the oldest water dogs in Europe, with references to the breed dating back to the 14th century.
- Rare but beloved: Despite their long history, Barbets are still relatively rare. In fact, there are only a few thousand of them worldwide, making them one of the more unique breeds you can own.
Common Myths about Barbets
Myth 1: Barbets are just a pretty face.
Wrong! While their curly coat might get them a lot of attention, Barbets are hardworking, intelligent, and highly skilled dogs. They’ve been water retrievers for centuries and aren’t afraid to get down and dirty (or wet) when it’s time to work.
Myth 2: Barbets are high-maintenance because of their coat.
Yes, their coat requires grooming, but it’s not as bad as you’d think. With regular brushing and occasional trims, the Barbet’s coat is pretty low-maintenance compared to some other curly-haired breeds.
Conclusion
The Barbet is a unique combination of beauty, brains, and water-loving energy. With a history that stretches back centuries and a personality that’s as charming as it is loyal, the Barbet makes a wonderful companion for those who love the outdoors and are ready for a dog that can keep up. Whether they’re diving into a lake, lounging by your feet, or just being their lovable, curly-coated selves, Barbets bring a lot of joy — and maybe a bit of water — into your life.
Having seen Barbets in action, I can confirm: these dogs are a force to be reckoned with in the water and a total lovebug on land. If you’re ready for a dog that’s as rare as it is wonderful, the Barbet might just be the perfect fit.