French Water Dog
Also known as Barbet · Französischer Wasserhund · Perro de Agua Francés
France, Water Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 53–65 cm
- Weight
- 17–28 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Friendly
- Intelligent
- Water-loving
- Eager to please
- Active
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the French Water Dog
The French Water Dog, known in France as the Barbet, is an old water retriever with a long, woolly, curly coat that covers the whole body, including the face. It is a medium-sized, sturdy dog that was used to retrieve waterfowl from marshes and lakes. The thick coat gave protection in cold water, and the breed's love of swimming is still obvious today. It also contributed to the ancestry of several other curly-coated breeds.
Temperament
Friendly, cheerful and eager to please, with a gentle manner towards people. Usually good with children and other pets when well socialised. Intelligent and enjoys having a task, particularly anything involving water.
Exercise
Needs a good daily walk plus chances to swim, fetch or do scent games. Bright and active, it enjoys training sessions and retrieving tasks as much as plain exercise.
Grooming
The dense, curly coat mats easily and needs brushing several times a week, with regular trimming. Dry the ears after swimming.
Care & wellbeing
Ears and the thick coat need regular attention, especially after swimming. Mental stimulation helps prevent boredom.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 22.5 kg adult- Water
- 900 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,160 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a French Water Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A French water dog developed to retrieve game from marsh and water, and later used as a general farm and hunting helper. Its dense, curly, woolly coat suited cold water work, and it is an energetic, trainable breed that is little known outside France and a few other countries.
Health
There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the French Water Dog. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.
Not every French Water Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a French Water Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a French Water Dog get?
Adult French Water Dogs typically stand about 53–65 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 17–28 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do French Water Dogs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a French Water Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a French Water Dog need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are French Water Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do French Water Dogs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are French Water Dogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a French Water Dog live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- France
- Type
- Water Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954