The Petit Fours litter was our first litter of Barbet puppies, born to Willow and Remy, and it holds such a special place in our hearts. Each puppy brought their own unique flavour and personality, just like the delicate French treats they were named after. From the moment they arrived, it was clear this was an extraordinary group: bright, affectionate, full of curiosity, and ready to step into the world with joy. This litter marks the true beginning of our breeding journey, and their story will always be woven into the fabric of Esprit Amitié Barbets.
Why Petit Fours?
Each of our litters carry a theme for their names, and for our first litter we chose Petit Fours. These delicate French treats are small, varied, and delightful, just like a litter of puppies. The name captured the sense of sweetness, individuality, and joy that this group of four brought into our lives. From there, each puppy took on a Turtle name, giving them both a family identity and their own unique character.
Meet the Parents
Remy (Awelymor Maddox)
Remy is the calm, steady heartbeat of our home. He is deeply affectionate and endlessly patient, with a natural gentleness that makes him instantly loved by everyone he meets. At the same time, he has an enthusiastic playful streak. Remy is happiest when he is part of everything we do, whether that’s exploring outdoors, splashing through water, or enjoying the simple comfort of family time at home. Remy’s even temperament and balanced nature are what make him so special, he brings reassurance, stability, and a confidence that shines through in his puppies.
Willow (Willow vom Zulimo)
Willow is our spirited, joyful girl, full of life and warmth. She is playful and fun loving, yet also wonderfully intuitive, always seeming to know what is needed in a given moment. She is happy to join in games, but just as content to curl up by your side. Willow has a quiet confidence that complements her desire to be independent, trusting us to honour this and support her. Her affectionate and engaging personality makes her a delight to live with, and her zest for life gives her puppies such wonderful energy and sparkle.
The Puppies
Affectionately known as the Turtles, our four boys each grew into their names with their own unique charm. While they shared the same start in life, their personalities quickly blossomed in different directions, giving us Leo, Mango, Raffy, and Dutch, four brothers, alike in spirit yet wonderfully individual.
Esprit Amitié Leonardo (Leo)
Leo is full of fun and mischief, with a twinkle in his eye that makes him hard to resist. He throws himself into new experiences without hesitation, a confident, adventurous streak he gets from his dad, Remy. At the same time, he has inherited Willow’s patience and sense of calm, showing in the way he simply sits and waits if something feels a little too big for the moment. Leo loves to be involved in everything, nose first, with a spirit that makes him both lively and endearing. He is lively and playful, always ready to turn a simple moment into an adventure, yet underneath his spark is a deeply affectionate and loyal nature.
Esprit Amitié Michelangelo (Mango)
Mango is a gentle soul with a big heart. He loves to bumble about, exploring and observing, always curious about what’s going on around him. Confident in himself, he will happily wander off to investigate something that catches his eye, independent yet always endearing. He has inherited his dad Remy’s enthusiasm and his mum Willow’s quiet certainty, creating a lovely balance of spirit and steadiness. With his soft, easy-going nature and tail that seems to wag constantly, Mango radiates happiness, contentment, and warmth wherever he goes.
Esprit Amitié Raphael (Raffy)
Raffy is our spirited, quick-thinking boy. Full of energy and enthusiasm, his tail wags almost constantly as he bounds through life. Like his dad, Remy, Raffy thrives on being active and involved, always ready for the next adventure. Yet beneath his spirited exterior lies a thoughtful, gentle side that reflects Willow’s influence, giving him a lovely balance of playfulness and sensitivity. Raffy is a puppy who brings joy wherever he goes, full of wriggles, warmth, and eagerness to connect.
Esprit Amitié Donatello (Dutch)
Dutch is the one we chose to keep, a thoughtful and engaging pup who has inherited his father’s composure and his mother’s sparkle. From Remy, he has gained steadiness, patience, and an easy confidence; from Willow, curiosity, sparkle, and intuition. Dutch approaches life with measured interest, observing carefully before joining in, and already shows the kind of depth and balance we value so highly in our Barbet breeding programme.
Together, they made our first litter unforgettable, each leaving their own mark on our hearts and shaping the way we think about the future of Esprit Amitié Barbets.
The Story Behind Their Names
I had been looking forward to choosing names for our very first litter, imagining all sorts of possibilities. Then, during a chat with one of our puppy families, they mentioned that they had already chosen the name Raphael, Raffy for short. What a lovely name, we thought. Almost without missing a beat, Matt said: ‘Brilliant, we’ll name them all after the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!’ And just like that, the theme was set.
So our first litter became affectionately known as the Turtles; Leo, Mango (Michelangelo), Raffy (Raphael), and Dutch (Donatello). It turned out to be the perfect choice: fun, memorable, and a reflection of the playful spirit that filled our home during those precious weeks.
The Petit Fours litter will always be a milestone for us, not just because it was our first, but because it confirmed everything we believe about the Barbet: their warmth, intelligence, adaptability, and charm. These puppies carry forward not just the qualities of their parents, but the heart of what we want to nurture in every generation of Esprit Amitié Barbets.
