| Dog Breed Name: Barbet
Alternate Names: French Water Dog, Griffon d'Arret a Foil
Laineux
Type: Working Dog
Physical Attributes: Barbets are noticeable for their long
coats with woolly hair that almost resembles that of a sheep
as they are curly or crimped and even form cords on some parts.
The coat falls over the bridge of the nose with thick fur
covering the whole muzzle and the chin which almost gives
it a bearded appearance. This thick coat combined with its
relatively thick skin helps them withstand cold. Their face
is broad, rounded with broad, flat and long ears and eyes
that are usually dark brown in color. The head gives way to
a short, strong neck sloping down to the strong shoulders
followed by a broad, deep and round chest and a slightly convex
back and a tail that is set low having a hooked appearance
the end. They have strong legs with most of it covered in
thick, long hair. They measure around 18-22 inches in height
and weigh around 33-55 pounds. Their coat comes in all shades
of brown, grey, jet black without white markings or white.
The color is usually even all over but they also come in mixed
colors.
Disposition: These dogs make good companions because they
are neither aggressive nor shy but are obedient and loyal
dogs. You will find them even tempered and therefore a good
around children and other animals. They enjoy the outdoors
and love water.
Origin: It is believed that this breed originated from the
sheepdogs of Asia and the early griffon hounds and that it
was developed in France as mentions of this dog has been found
in old manuscripts dating as far back as the 16th century.
It is believed that they were used for hunting and retrieving
birds.
Environment: These dogs need a place where water bodies are
easily available and owners choose this breed only if they
are happy with its heavy coat. It is not uncommon for owners
to clip the hair depending on what purpose the dog is kept
for. If your dog is meant to be a show dog, please check what
is acceptable before clipping the coat.
Grooming: Due to their long and thick coats, they need to
be groomed very regularly, preferably by a professional- until
you have learned how to groom your dog yourself. Their eyes
and ears need special attention to prevent infections.
Exercise: They need regular exercise preferably in water
bodies that are safe- not too deep, not too wide and not infested
by snakes and other dangerous animals. Some boarding schools
and other dog facilities have them.
Training: They respond well to training and once trained you
will find them very obedient.
Health: If you stick to a good grooming schedule as required
by this breed, you will not see your dog face any health problems
as they are quite strong dogs. Their ears will have to be
cleaned and dried, definitely after a water sport as they
are prone to ear infections when this is not taken care of.
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