Brittany - Breed Introduction

The Brittany is a happy, lively, intelligent breed that enjoys hunting and working, and even enjoys working with other dogs. Affectionate and independent, the Brittany can make a good family dog. Because of its manageable size, the Brittany is a popular choice as a companion dog among hunters.

The Brittany typically stands between 17 and 21 inches in height (43 to 53 centimeters) and weighs 30 to 40 pounds (14 to 18 kilograms).

History of Breed

It is assumed that the Brittany probably originated in the region of France bearing the same name. It is widely thought that the Brittany is the result of cross breeding between the Orange and White Setter and some other unidentified dog of French origin. The earliest anyone has been able to locate documentation of the Brittany in France was in 1896.

Some countries refer to this dog as the Brittany Spaniel, although its characteristics are more like those of a setter or pointer. In many places, including the United States, it is simply called the Brittany.

Color and Coat

Brittanys are most commonly white with orange patches, but they may also be liver and white, black and white, liver tri-color, or black tri-color, in either a clear or roan pattern. Black is not an acceptable color under the guidelines of the American Kennel Club or the Canadian Kennel Club, but it otherwise considered acceptable in the rest of the world.

The coat of the Brittany is dense, of moderate length, and can be either flat or wavy.  Slight feathering can appear on the ears and legs, but dense feathering is not desirable and can impede the dog’s ability to work.

Personality and Temperament

The Brittany is sweet in nature and notably easy to train. Some say that a stern look is all that is needed to scold a misbehaving Brittany. Care must be used not to be overly harsh with these dogs so as to break the animal’s spirit. They are highly sensitive and eager to please.

These dogs are energetic and must be exercised, physically and mentally, on a daily basis. If not, they can become destructive as they try to entertain themselves.

Brittanys are good with children if introduced to them at an early age. Because of their exuberance, care must be taken that the dog does not knock small children over. They share a love of human and animal companionship alike, and enjoy being part of a multiple dog family.

Show Characteristics

Solidly built yet not heavy, the Brittany’s body is as long as it is tall. It has long legs that have free, easy movement. When they step, the hind foot should reach at least to the place where the front foot had landed, if not in front of it.

Some Brittanys are born with naturally docked tails, while others have long ones. Long tails are usually cropped to a length of 1 to 4 inches. In countries that ban tail docking, the tail should be carried level with the back or slightly lower.

The Brittany should have an alert and eager expression, with well set eyes behind a heavy eyebrow. Ears are triangular and short, set high upon the head. Nostrils may be fawn, pink, or dark brown, but never black. Any black in the coat is also grounds for disqualification.

The body should have a deep chest and a short, straight back. There should be a slight slope from the highest point of the shoulder to the base of the tail. Hindquarters should be muscular, broad, and strong.

Typical Health Concerns

Brittanys are typically healthy animals, but they can be prone to hip dysplasia and epilepsy. Ear infections can be a common affliction.

Grooming

All that is needed to keep the coat of this dog in good condition is regular brushing. Bathing should be done only when necessary. For proper show grooming, the coat will need to be trimmed carefully.

Country of Origin

The Brittany originated in France.

Average Life Span

The Brittany can be expected to live between 10 and 12 years.