Barbet

The Barbet is an ancient breed with roots tracing back to the Middle Ages in Europe, particularly in France. The name "Barbet" comes from the French word "barbe," meaning beard, which describes the breed's distinctive facial hair.

Key Points

• Ancient Origins: The Barbet's ancestors include various water-retrieving dogs, such as the Irish Water Spaniel and Poodle. These breeds were valued for their swimming prowess and were used by hunters to retrieve game from both water and land.
• Historical Use: Barbets were primarily used as versatile hunting dogs, excelling in flushing and retrieving waterfowl. They were also appreciated as companions due to their gentle disposition.
• Renaissance and Decline: During the Renaissance, the Barbet gained popularity among nobles and artists, who admired its intelligence and amicable nature. However, the breed faced a decline in numbers during the 19th century as specialized hunting breeds rose to prominence.
• Revival Efforts: After World War II, the breed nearly became extinct but was revived by dedicated breeders in the 1970s. The modern Barbet is taller than its historical counterpart, partly due to cross-breeding with Standard Poodles.
• Recognition: The Barbet was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and is listed in Group 8 (retrievers, flushing dogs, and water dogs). It was introduced to the United States in 1994 and recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2020.
• Today, the Barbet is slowly regaining popularity for its unique appearance, intelligence, and devotion to its owners.