Belgian Sheepdog vs Barbet Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Groenendael or French Water Dog?
Compare the Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Groenendael or a French Water Dog? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Chien De Berger Belge, Groenendael
French Water Dog
Weight
What is the average weight of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
60.0 pounds
( 27 kg )
49.5 pounds
( 22 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet
22.0 inches
( 55.9 cm )
24.0 inches
( 61 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
Belgian Sheepdog has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.
Barbet has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.
Hypoallergenic
Are Belgian Sheepdogs or Barbets hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, the Belgian Sheepdog is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
Yes
While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Barbets are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet dogs?
Active Confident Hard Working Stubborn Intelligent Alert Friendly Protective Watchful
Do Belgian Sheepdogs shed more than Barbets, or which breed sheds more, Belgian Sheepdogs or Barbets?
Belgian Sheepdogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Barbets shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
Choose a Belgian Sheepdog if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.
Barbets are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.
Origin
What is the origin of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet dog breeds?
Belgium
France
Ancestry
What are the origins of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds?
Shepherd Dog
Water dog
Breed recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize/register Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
American Canine Registry American Kennel Club America's Pet Registry Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc. Federation Cynologique Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Australian National Kennel Council Continental Kennel Club
American Kennel Club Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc. Kennel Club of Great Britain North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Continental Kennel Club United Kennel Club
Date of Birth
When were Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds first developed?
1800s
1500s
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
Herding (AKC:1912 & UKC)
Sporting Gun dog (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet dogs?
Brown
Brown Amber
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
Black
Black Brown
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds?
Black Fawn Sable
Black Brown Fawn Gray Pied
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds?
Belgian Sheepdogs have longer coats compared to most dogs.
Barbets have medium-length coats.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
Straight
Curly
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
12-14 puppies per pregnancy
A Belgian Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
13-15 puppies per pregnancy
A Barbet can have a litter of 13-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Belgian Sheepdogs are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Barbets have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.
Health Issues
Between Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet, which breed is more prone to health problems?
While the Belgian Sheepdog breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.
Barbets are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds?
Progressive Retinal Atrophy Hip Dysplasia Hypothyroidism Cancer
Entropion Hip Dysplasia
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
Cataracts Epilepsy
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds?
Blood Test Hip X-Rays Thyroid Tests MRI Eye Examination
Eye Hip X-Rays Eye Examination Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Belgian Sheepdogs and Barbets compare?
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.
Social Needs
Belgian Sheepdog vs Barbet social needs comparison
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.
Exercise Needed
Belgian Sheepdog vs Barbet exercise need comparison.
Belgian Sheepdogs need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.
Barbets need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
The Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Belgian Sheepdogs or Barbets bark more/less frequently?
Belgian Sheepdog dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Barbet dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.
Territorial
Is the Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet a better guard dog?
Belgian Sheepdog dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.
While Barbet dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Belgian Sheepdog vs Barbet?
Roaming urge
Belgian Sheepdog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet entertained?
Playing Ball, Walk, Run, Keep away, Hike, Swim, Frizbee, Canoeing, Chase, Long walks, Hiking, Eating Snacks
Fetch, Walking, Walk, Play, Dressing up
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Belgian Sheepdogs or Barbets?
High
Belgian Sheepdogs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.
Medium
Barbets are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet walk each week?
9 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Belgian Sheepdog, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
10 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Barbet, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Belgian Sheepdogs or Barbets require more exercise?
60 minutes
In general most Belgian Sheepdogs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
45 minutes
In general most Barbets usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Belgian Sheepdogs or Barbets?
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet dogs?
Weekly
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Belgian Sheepdogs and Barbets?
Pin Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet in cups?
2.5 cups
For an average 55-75 pound (25 - 34 kg) Belgian Sheepdog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
3 cups
For an average 37-62 pound (17 - 28 kg) Barbet feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
$1.70 - $2.00 / day
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet have a similar average daily cost of around $1.70 - $2.00.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
$48 - $63 / month
When it comes to monthly expenses, both Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet have a similar average cost, ranging from $48 - $63. This results in an average yearly cost of around $576 - $756.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Belgian Sheepdogs vs Barbets
Belgian Sheepdog is a very intelligent and trainable breed.
Barbets are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.
Sensitivity Level
How do Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.
Barbets have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Belgian Sheepdog vs Barbet?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
Belgian Sheepdogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.
Barbets are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Child Friendly
Do Belgian Sheepdogs or Barbets have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
Cat Friendly
Do Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Belgian Sheepdogs are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.
Barbets are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
{Belgian Sheepdogs and Barbets are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.
Pet friendly
How do Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Belgian Sheepdog or Barbet?
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet?
Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet are known to be highly playful dogs. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting slightly older Belgian Sheepdog and Barbet for a mellower experience.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Belgian Sheepdogs and Barbets compare?
Belgian Sheepdogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
Barbets are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.