The Brittany, also known as the Brittany Spaniel, is a highly skilled pointing and retrieving breed that originated in France, specifically in the Brittany region, during the 17th century. Originally bred by French hunters, this breed was developed to be an all-purpose hunting dog, excelling in pointing, flushing, and retrieving game birds.
Despite its name, the Brittany is not a true spaniel but rather a pointing breed, sharing more in common with Setters and Pointers. Its compact size, keen nose, and boundless energy made it extremely popular among bird hunters, both in Europe and North America. Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1934, the Brittany has since become one of the most beloved sporting breeds worldwide.
The Brittany is one of the most popular hunting breeds in the United States, ranking among the top sporting dogs due to its intelligence, trainability, and high energy levels.
The breed is favored by hunters for its versatility in the field and by active families for its playful and affectionate nature. Due to its friendly personality and eagerness to please, the Brittany has also gained popularity as a companion pet in non-hunting households.
The Brittany is a medium-sized, athletic dog, built for speed, agility, and endurance.
• Coat: The short to medium-length coat is dense, with a feathered appearance on the legs and chest. Common colors include orange and white, liver and white, or tricolor (black, white, and tan in some European lines).
• Size: Males stand 17.5 to 20.5 inches tall and weigh 30 to 40 pounds, with females slightly smaller.
• Head & Expression: The breed has a slightly rounded skull, soft expressive eyes, and a short, slightly tapered muzzle.
• Ears: Short, triangular, and set high, lying close to the head.
• Body: Compact and well-muscled, with a natural bobtail or docked tail in some individuals.
The Brittany is known for its enthusiasm, intelligence, and affectionate personality, making it an outstanding hunting companion and family pet.
• Energetic and Athletic: This breed has high stamina and endurance, requiring plenty of physical activity.
• Highly Intelligent and Trainable: Brittanys are quick learners and excel in obedience, agility, and hunting training.
• Affectionate and Friendly: Forms strong bonds with family members and enjoys being around people.
• Excellent Hunting Instincts: Naturally talented at pointing, flushing, and retrieving.
• Social and Good with Other Dogs: Gets along well with other dogs and can adapt to multi-pet households.
For those looking for a high-energy, intelligent, and affectionate companion, the Brittany is an excellent choice.
• Ideal for Hunters and Outdoor Enthusiasts: Excels in upland bird hunting and retrieving.
• Loving and Devoted Companion: Forms deep bonds with family and enjoys human interaction.
• Easy to Train: Their eagerness to please makes them one of the most trainable sporting breeds.
• Great for Active Families: Perfect for individuals or families that enjoy running, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
• Compact and Agile: Medium size makes them easy to handle at home and in the field.
The Brittany requires regular exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction to stay happy and well-adjusted.
• Grooming: The low-maintenance coat requires brushing 1-2 times a week to remove loose hair.
• Exercise: Needs at least 1 to 2 hours of daily physical activity, including runs, playtime, and hunting exercises.
• Mental Stimulation: Enjoys training exercises, scent work, and interactive games to keep their mind active.
• Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet high in protein to support their high energy levels.
• Training and Socialization: Early training helps develop obedience and good manners, especially in high-energy households.
Brittanys are generally healthy dogs, but they may be prone to certain hereditary conditions.
• Hip Dysplasia: Affects mobility in some individuals.
• Epilepsy: Some Brittanys may have a genetic predisposition to seizures.
• Ear Infections: Their floppy ears require regular cleaning to prevent infections.
• Hypothyroidism: Some Brittanys may develop thyroid-related issues affecting metabolism.
• Obesity: Their love for food and high energy levels require careful portion control and regular exercise.
Compared to the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Brittany is smaller, more agile, and slightly easier to train. Compared to the English Setter, the Brittany is more energetic and requires less grooming.
Unlike the Cocker Spaniel, which is also used for flushing game, the Brittany is better suited for long-distance hunting and has higher stamina.
The Brittany is perfect for active individuals, hunters, and families looking for a loving, intelligent, and high-energy dog. If you enjoy outdoor activities, field sports, or competitive training, the Brittany will be a loyal and skilled partner.
However, if you prefer a low-energy, low-maintenance breed, or do not have time for regular training and exercise, this breed may not be the best fit.
United Pet Club is here to help you find the perfect Brittany companion. Whether you're looking to adopt or connect with trusted breeders, we provide valuable resources to guide you every step of the way.
Explore our platform to learn more about Brittany dogs, their history, and how to care for them. Contact United Pet Club today to start your journey with this energetic and versatile French hunting dog!