Longevity
Life expectancy
With a balanced diet, daily activity and regular veterinary follow-up, this dog generally lives between 13 and 15 years. Its longevity depends in particular on its physical condition, its weight and the screening for hereditary disorders.
Build
A robust breed?
The Barbet is a hardy and enduring dog. Its thick coat insulates it well from bad weather and its working-dog heritage gives it good physical abilities. This robustness does not exempt from a serious selection of breeding dogs nor from orthopedic and ear monitoring.
Watch points
What to watch for
Vigilance mainly concerns the joints, the kneecaps, and the ears. A responsible breeder must present the results of the recommended screenings for breeding dogs, while the owner must consult promptly in case of lameness, pain, or signs of otitis.
Hip dysplasia : Malformation of the coxofemoral joint that can cause pain, lameness and osteoarthritis; screening breeding dogs reduces the risk.
Patellar luxation : Intermittent or permanent displacement of the kneecap likely to cause an abnormal gait and varying discomfort.
Otitis : Long, hairy ears retain moisture, especially after swimming, which promotes inflammation and infections.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
Its woolly, thick coat protects the Barbet very well from cold, humidity and even cold water. It also tolerates heat fairly well, provided it has shade, fresh water and avoids exertion during the hottest hours. After swimming, the coat and ears must be carefully dried.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Its high activity level generally limits weight gain, but the ration must remain adapted to its age, its weight and its actual energy expenditure. Treats should be included in the daily intake. Regular weighing and observation of the silhouette make it possible to quickly adjust the quantities.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Have the dog examined at least once a year by a veterinarian.
- Dry and check the ears after each swim.
- Brush the coat methodically at least once a week.
- Maintain regular activity without overloading the puppy's joints.
- Monitor any limping or locomotor discomfort.
Vaccination
Barbet vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Barbet? Like all cats, the Barbet receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Barbet is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Barbet vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Barbet?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Barbet
Before any breeding, it is advisable to check the hips and patellas and to verify the family history. An annual clinical examination, monitoring of the ears, eyes, skin and dentition complete prevention. The veterinarian may propose additional examinations depending on the line and the signs observed.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
