Their thick, curly coat does make them quite a high maintenance breed as it does require considerable grooming.
Wondering if the Barbet is hypoallergenic? While no breed of dog can be considered 100% hypoallergenic, a Barbet is an ideal pet for anyone with allergies.
This is because its unique hair doesn’t shed like other dogs. Instead, this hair sheds in tufts which will generally come out when brushed — this is why the Barbet should be brushed at least once a week. This needs to be right down to the skin to prevent tangles from forming. The curls may need to be gently combed more regularly than this to prevent them from matting.
Barbets love to play in the water, so they’ll need to be groomed every time they do to keep their coat in good condition. When they have been in the water or a bath, let them air-dry to retain their natural curls.
Their hair grows continuously so you will need to trim it. You could clip it down to around two inches so it’s easier to maintain but it’s best if this is three to five inches. Make sure to remove hair around the ears to stop excessive hair from trapping dirt here. You’ll also need to trim the hair between the pads on their paws when needed.
You may want to visit a groomer every six weeks or so, and let them do this for you.
Make sure to keep their ears clean to prevent infections, brush their teeth regularly and trim their nails when needed.
The Barbet will benefit from an active family as they’re a high-energy breed and need plenty of exercise. They’ll thrive in sporting events, particularly agility, and they love to swim. Their coat is weather-resistant so they’ll happily take a dip in the water in any weather and actually have webbed paws specifically for this.
Barbet health risks
Barbets generally tend to be a healthy breed but, of course, can be prone to some health conditions — as with all dogs. The ones you need to be particularly aware of are:
There’s also a chance of cataracts and epilepsy — although these are only a minor concern.
Although Barbets are quite a healthy breed they are still prone to some health issues. Make sure you are prepared for this by browsing and comparing top pet insurance providers to find the best option for you and your dog.
Entropion
Entropion is when the eyelid folds in towards the eyeball. It’s usually the lower lid that’s affected, but it can be the upper and occasionally both. As a result the dog’s eyelashes will rub against their eye. This will cause irritation and discomfort but could lead to loss of vision or blindness. Symptoms include eye redness and inner eye inflammation. This could be inherited or it could be due to a trauma to the eye. Treatment will include surgery.
Ectropion, when the lower eyelid rolls outwards, is another potential eye issue.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is when the ball and socket of the hip joint rubs and grinds together, in either one or both hips, because it hasn’t formed properly. It can happen to dogs at any age — it may be as early as 16 weeks or they could get it later in life. It will be very painful and restrict movement.
There are a number of causes but it can develop because of rapid weight gain or obesity. So, at first, you may need to look at your dog’s diet and weight management. The treatment might also include oral supplements, physiotherapy or surgery.
Feeding a Barbet — what’s the best diet?
Your Barbet can be fed wet or dry food — or a mixture of both. Make sure it’s formulated for medium-sized breeds with high energy as well as for their specific life stage and any other dietary requirements.
Barbet puppies should be fed three to four meals a day, while for Barbet dogs this can be reduced to two meals a day.
Your Barbet will love a treat — especially when training them — but make sure you take this into account when serving up their meals. You don’t want them to become overweight.
You’ll want to make sure your Barbet is enjoying the best possible diet. Check out the advice from our friends at Dog Food Advisor such as the best dry dog food and the best wet dog food.
