One of the most common questions we face when meeting with prospective puppy owners is which sex to choose, male or female?
The questioning is quite normal, because this choice is important and sometimes has serious consequences, if it is not made after real reflection on one's own lifestyle and the expectations of each person.
But in this field, we have to admit that clichés of all kinds are legion! So, we say STOP to preconceived ideas, and simply offer you the fruit of our experience...
FALSE: Males are not naturally dominant, nor are they barky or aggressive. No, they don't run away, and they're even less "difficult" to train. Finally, no, they don't spend their time urinating on anything and everything!
FALSE: The female is not more affectionate by nature, she is not more docile or easy to train!
So what?
The reality seems much more subtle to us! If men and women are very different, the same is true for our canine friends. They each have their own character linked to their early childhood and heredity, and evolve according to the education they receive at the kennel and at your home.
In the Barbet, generally speaking, we find that the males are more affectionate and docile. If they run away for a few hours, it will only be because a beautiful female in heat is nearby, and if they show a little aggression, it will only ever be to defend the pack or the house!
However, it is true that temperament changes over time. And once a male has mated, he often becomes more dominant over other males.
The female barbet, the barbette, is often a little more stubborn, and her strong character changes depending on her hormones. The "problem" of the two heat periods can indeed make you hesitate about choosing a female! The best thing, if you don't plan on breeding, is certainly to have your little one spayed before her first hunts. In addition to the fact that the heat will disappear, it has been proven that this significantly reduces certain forms of cancer.
Against Oria
In short, if you ask Alain what he prefers, he will answer without hesitation: a female. And if you ask Anne-Sophie the same question, she will undoubtedly tell you: a male. So, it's up to you to decide based on your expectations, but one thing is certain, the Barbet or Barbette that will share your days and nights for 13 years will be unique!
We want to keep prices affordable so that all families can afford a Barbet. The fact that it is very rare should not make it more expensive. Even if in some countries it is synonymous with snobbery, in France, its country of origin, it must remain a common dog within everyone's reach!
