Barbet
The Barbet is described by the AKC as friendly, bright, sweet-natured, a member of the Sporting Group, originally from France.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
| Height | 19-24.5 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 35-65 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Friendly / Bright / Sweet-Natured [1] |
| AKC group | Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | France [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 129 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Bred as a marsh/swamp game retriever, the Barbet is an agile athlete and loyal partner in any activity, especially if it involves water. He actually has webbed paws specifically for swimming. Besides swimming, other options for exercise include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or taken for walks several times a day. [1]
Grooming
Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your dog. The proper grooming of a Barbet starts with a full brush-out, a comb through to the skin, and a good bath. An after-bath blow drying will straighten the hair and make a fluff ball ready for a scissor trim. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Barbet is solidly built with adequate bone to perform his tasks as a true sporting dog, and as such is sturdy, with a moderately sized and constructed frame. Given the small genetic pool from which the Barbet draws, it is a surprisingly healthy breed thanks to wise, cautious selection by breeders. Responsible breeders screen for health conditions such as as hip and elbo dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), seizure disorders and allergies. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
| Full professional grooming, per visit | $40–$150 | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Barbet in 2020. [1]
- It ranked No. 129 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “French Water Dog.” [1]
- The AKC lists France as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Low-maintenance seekers: AKC rates grooming needs 5/5
Common questions
How long do Barbets live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Barbet get?
AKC breed information lists height 19-24.5 inches and weight 35-65 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Barbet?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Barbet, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.