Barbet - a dog is quite rare, and is rarely seen on the streets of our cities. Among dog handlers, this gun-hunting hunting dog is famous not only for its outstanding abilities, but also for the fact that many hunting breeds came from it: griffon of cortals, drathaar and others, as well as poodles, lapdogs and bichon frize.
Breed history
Barbet is a dog known as a hunting assistant for a hunter since the 14th century. The ancestors of the modern animal were busty water dogs. The word "barbet" is translated from French as "beard." From this one can easily guess that our today's heroine has a pretty beard.
Until now, researchers of the history of the breed can not come to an unambiguous conclusion about how the first barbets appeared in France. Some believe that they were brought in by the Moorish invaders. Others are convinced that Portuguese sailors brought the animals.
The breed of dog Barbet was very popular until the end of the XIX century. Later, interest in these animals began to fade, and the number of representatives of the breed decreased markedly. However, in the seventies of the last century, the breed survived its rebirth. Nevertheless, today these cute animals can rarely be found even on the streets of France or at a dog show.
Description of the breed Barbet
The dog, whose photo you can see in the article, is characterized as an off-season swimmer. Its large, rounded paws facilitate easy and quick movement in the water.
Such an unusual four-legged friend differs from many of his brethren in long, felt-like wool, which needs careful daily care. Otherwise, it will fall down, stray into tangles, curl into laces.
Dogs of this breed grow up to 65 cm at the withers, and bitches - up to 61 cm. The standard allows a deviation of 1 cm in both directions. Males weigh up to 28 kg, females - no more than 17 kg.
Wool
Today, a barbette is a dog, often an excellent companion. However, experienced hunters seek to acquire a puppy of this breed, from which you can grow a great helper.
The color of these animals is diverse. So, the barbets participating in the exhibitions show black, white, chocolate, dark gray with spots, light fawn with dark spots, luxurious fur coats.
Character
Barbet is a passionate and determined hunter, no matter how the owners try to turn her just into a pet. This breed was bred for hunting waterfowl, however, if desired or necessary, having passed a special training course, this dog will become an excellent assistant in land hunting.
Barbet is a dog hardy and resistant to difficult weather conditions, and its coat allows it to hunt even in icy water. But these animals tolerate heat much worse than cold.
At home, the barbet manifests itself as a calm and affectionate creature. He is friendly not only towards family members, but also to guests who come to the house. But in addition, the barbet is a surprisingly playful and agile dog, so it can become a true friend and a cheerful companion for children. Nevertheless, she singles out one person in the house. And his master will follow everywhere and unquestioningly carry out all his commands.
Food
The basis of the diet of barbet should be meat (lamb, beef). In addition, the animal should receive vegetables and cereals, a little bone meal and about eight grams of salt daily. In the absence of meat, barbet can offer dairy dishes. If you decide to feed your pet dry food, then take care of the free access to fresh water. Some owners soak the feed in milk or broth.
Raising and training a barbet dog
It is important to know that this is a non-aggressive dog. However, due to its overly sociable nature, the upbringing, socialization and training of a puppy must be practiced from a very young age. The indefatigable energy of a companion barbet must be compensated by constant physical exertion, which will keep the animal in good shape.
These dogs are smart and smart: instantly understand what the owner wants from them. But often, especially at a very young age, they “flirt”, confusing training with the game, which is why they need a strong hand. The owner must show firmness in the education of his pet, not forgetting to encourage him for good behavior. Feeling the owner’s benevolent attitude, a barbet can achieve great heights in dog sports.
Barbet, according to the owners, is a wonderful dog. With proper upbringing, a wonderful companion grows out of the puppy - faithful, affectionate and thinking.