Brittany
Breed History:
The Brittany originated in the Brittany region of northwestern France, where it was developed during the 17th and 18th centuries as a versatile bird-hunting dog. Believed to have descended from local spaniels crossed with English Setters, the breed was selectively refined for its exceptional ability to point, flush, and retrieve game birds. Unlike traditional spaniels, the Brittany naturally points before flushing game, making it one of the most versatile sporting breeds.
The breed gained international recognition for its speed, intelligence, endurance, and close-working hunting style. It was officially recognised in France in 1907, and today it is one of the most popular upland bird dogs in Europe and North America. Beyond the hunting field, the Brittany is also cherished as an energetic, affectionate, and highly trainable family companion.
Today, the Brittany is admired as a loyal family companion, exceptional hunting dog, and versatile sporting breed known for its intelligence, endurance, and outstanding pointing and retrieving abilities.
If you want to learn about other pointer breeds, check out our page "Different Pointer Dog Breeds".
|
Gender |
Height |
Weight |
|
Male |
48–51 cm |
14–18 kg |
|
Female |
47–50 cm |
13–17 kg |
Size – Medium
Life Expectancy: 12–14 years
Breed Appearance:
The Brittany is a compact, athletic, and well-balanced dog built for speed, agility, and endurance.
The breed commonly features:
- Slightly rounded head
- Medium-length, tapered muzzle
- Amber or dark brown expressive eyes
- Short, triangular pendant ears
- Deep, well-developed chest
- Strong, muscular neck
- Straight, athletic limbs
- Naturally short or docked tail where permitted
Its dense, flat to slightly wavy coat is weather-resistant without being overly heavy.
Common coat colours include:
- Orange and white
- Liver and white
- Orange roan
- Liver roan
- Tricolour (less common)
The breed's balanced proportions and elegant movement reflect its heritage as a fast, agile upland bird dog.
Breed Type – Sporting / Pointing Dog:
The Brittany is an intelligent, energetic, and highly versatile sporting dog.
It is known for being:
- Loyal
- Intelligent
- Affectionate
- Energetic
- Eager to please
- Gentle
The breed forms strong bonds with its family and is excellent with children and other dogs. It thrives on companionship and enjoys having a job to do.
Training:
The Brittany is highly intelligent and eager to learn, making it one of the easiest sporting breeds to train.
Training should focus on:
- Early socialisation
- Positive reinforcement methods
- Basic obedience training
- Recall training
- Field training
- Retrieving exercises
The breed excels in:
- Pointing
- Retrieving
- Field trials
- Agility
- Obedience
- Search and rescue
Consistent, reward-based training helps bring out the breed's natural enthusiasm and versatility.
Health & Care:
The Brittany is generally healthy but may be prone to several health concerns, including:
-
Hip dysplasia
-
Hypothyroidism
- Allergies
- Epilepsy
- Ear infections
- Progressive retinal atrophy
Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.
Living Conditions:
The Brittany thrives in active homes where it receives plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation.
Ideal environments include:
- Houses with securely fenced yards
- Rural or suburban homes
- Active families
- Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts
- Homes with access to parks, trails, or fields
The breed prefers living indoors with its family and may adapt to apartment living only if its high exercise needs are consistently met.
Exercise:
The Brittany has high exercise requirements.
Recommended activities include:
- Long daily walks
- Running
- Hiking
- Retrieving games
- Agility
- Field work
- Mental enrichment activities
At least 1.5 to 2 hours of daily exercise helps keep the breed physically fit and mentally satisfied.
Grooming:
The medium-length coat requires moderate maintenance.
- Brushing two to three times per week
- Occasional bathing
- Regular ear cleaning
- Nail trimming
- Routine dental care
The breed sheds moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding during seasonal coat changes.
