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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

Companionable
Intelligent
Obedient
Cheerful
Joyful

Shedding Level

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.

Common match-ups