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Breed Characteristics
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Brittany
| Other Names | Brittany Spaniel, Epagneul Breton, American Brittany, Brittany Wiegref, French Brittany |
| Country of Origin | France |
| Weight | Males: 35 - 40 lbs. (16 - 18 kg) Females: 30 - 40 lbs. (14 - 18 kg) |
| Height (at withers) | Males: 17 - 21 in. (43 - 53 cm) Females: 18 - 20 in. (46 - 51 cm) |
| Coat | The single coat is lightly feathered, never curly, but dense, flat or wavy. |
| Colour | All over the world the Brittany or Epagneul Breton accepts 5 colours: orange and white, liver and white, black and white, liver tricolour, and black tricolour, in either a clear or roam pattern, with some ticking. |
| Litter Size | 1 - 11 puppies, average 6 |
| Life Span | 12-15 years |
| Origin & History | The origin of the Brittany is somewhat unknown. There is speculation of it being the cross of an Orange and White Setter and some not clearly identified French dog. The dog is suggested to have originated in the French province of Brittany. The Brittany was first shown in 1896. It is one of the most popular pointing dogs for bird hunting. It is considered to be the smallest of the gun dogs. The Brittany to this day is still used widely for its work as a hunting and gun dog. The name "Brittany" is taken from the Brittany region in northwestern France where the dog originated. Images of orange and white Brittany-like dogs hunting and retrieving game were first seen on tapestries and paintings from the 17th century. The first written and verifiable record of Brittanys comes from a hunting description written by Reverend Davies in 1850. He described hunting with small "bobtailed" dogs who pointed and were excellent retrievers. It was around the same time that the modern Brittany is rumored to have been bred by mating with English Setters. The Brittany was first shown at the Paris Dog Show in 1900. The Brittany was first recognized as a breed in 1907 when an orange and white male named "Boy" was registered in France. As a result, the first standards were outlined in the same year. America recognized the Brittany in 1931 and the breed was approved by the American Kennel Club in 1934. In 1982 the "Spaniel" was officially dropped from the name |
| Personality | The Brittany is intelligent and easy to handle and train for hunting. It is a loving and gentle animal; obedient and always eager to please. Happy and alert, this vigorous breed is a very active and enthusiastic hunter. Affectionate, yet independent; it is a free-thinker. Good-natured and easy to care for. Brittanys that lack in mental and or physical exercise will become hyperactive and unstable as the energy builds up inside them. When they are not hunting they need to be taken out on daily pack walks where the dog is made to heel beside the handler. Never let them walk out in front, as pack leader goes first. They also need an owner who is firm, but calm, confident and consistent all at the same time, setting the rules and sticking to them. Brittanys that lack in mental/physical exercise and/or are not secure with their place in the pack may become nervous and/or timid. Socialize extensively as a puppy. Because of the dog's hunting instincts, the Brittany likes to roam. They are good with children if they are raised with them from puppyhood and/or properly socialized. It adapts to all types of terrain: woods, plains or hills. It's resistant to cold and damp conditions. It is used especially for hunting woodcock, partridge and hare, and is always active, enthusiastic and untiring. It also has an outstanding instinct for retrieving from water. The Brittany has earned great popularity among millions of hunters because of its moderate size, which allows hunters to transport them easily. Because of its jolly character, it is also popular as a companion dog. |
Care Requirements
| Health | Prone to hip dysplasia, seizures and breast cancer. |
| Grooming | Regular brushing of the medium-length, flat coat is really all that is needed to keep it in good condition. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. A low-maintenance dog, but careful trimming is necessary if you plan on showing them. Check the ears carefully, especially when the dog has been out in rough or brushy terrain. This breed is a light shedder. |
| Exercise | Brittanys need and love extensive exercise and have great stamina. They should be taken on a long, brisk daily walk or jog and need an active owner. |
| Other Considerations | The Brittany is not recommended for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do best with acreage. This breed is resistant to cold and damp conditions. |
