At once boisterous and regal, the Brittany is an award-winning hunter. This breed has impressive scent tracking abilities — they can smell a flock of birds almost a football field away! Bred for their hunting prowess, Brittanys are aristocratic in appearance and have charming personalities.
More than just hunters, though, Brittanys are also avid canine athletes and loving family companions. Whether on the agility course or just chasing a frisbee, your Brittany loves to be on the move with you.
Originally from France, this medium-sized and high-energy breed can grow to between 30-40 pounds and lives an average of 12-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Sporting group.
AKC Recognized | Y |
Breed's original pastime | Pointing, retrieving |
Origin | France |
Breed group | Sporting |
Average lifespan | 12-14 years |
Size | Medium |
Bark factor | Moderate |
AKC Ranking | 30 |
Family | Gundog, spaniel |
Date of origin | 1800s |
Original function | Pointing and retrieving |
Today's function | Pointing and retrieving |
Average size of male | Height: 17.5-20.5 Weight: 30-40 |
Average size of female | Height: 17.5-20.5 Weight: 30-40 |
OTHER NAME | None |
Energy level | High energy |
Exercise needs | High |
Playfullness | Very playful |
Affection level | Very affectionate |
Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
Ease of training | Hard to train |
Watchdog ability | High |
Protection ability | Moderately protective |
Grooming needs | Moderately maintenance |
Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A BRITTANY'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
This strong, rugged breed makes for good family dogs — they are loyal and often wonderful with children, though their energy level means they'll do best when supervised with little ones. Very playful, cheerful, and affectionate, Brittanys are often friendly toward other dogs and pets. A stranger is just a Brittany's newest friend.
WHAT IS BRITTANY BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Brittanys are versatile and zealous hunters. Your Brittany will need room to stretch his legs and regular exercise — think long walks or vigorous romps in the yard every day. They make for alert watchdogs, but they're not very protective. They can be somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A BRITTANY?
This breed is very easy to train. Brittanys are typically submissive, obedient, biddable, and eager to please.
They can be sensitive, so be gentle with them. Use patience and encouragement to train your Brittany and this dog will fetch you the moon if you ask for it.
Regular exercise is important for keeping your canine companion's body and mind healthy and happy. These dogs excel at agility, flyball, obedience, and field trials. They make for good citizens at the dog park.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO BRITTANYS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Brittany's short coats are soft and feathered; their hair can be wavy or flat. These dogs are relatively easy to groom. Their coats shed mud and dirt, so they won't need frequent baths. They'll need weekly brushings or combings. Your Brittany will shed seasonally; their shedding is usually moderate.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO BRITTANYS HAVE?
This is a generally healthy breed. Be sure to keep their long ears clean, as they can be prone to infections.