The Brittany Dog Breed

Formerly known as the Brittany Spaniel, the Brittany is actually a pointing breed

. These medium-sized hunting dogs have more in common with Pointers and Setters than with Spaniels since they point their game.

The Brittany is a popular dual-purpose dog and is one of the Sporting dogs which has not suffered from a split between dogs used for hunting and dogs which are shown in the conformation ring. A Brittany used for hunting looks just like the same dogs seen in the show ring. In fact, many dogs do both.

The Brittany makes an ideal family companion. They are friendly, happy dogs with a willing attitude. It's believed that the Brittany may share a common ancestry with the Welsh Springer Spaniel, which it resembles. Pointing dogs may have been added around 1900 to intensify the hunting characteristics they have today.

The Brittany was named after the French province of Brittany where it is said to have originated. Dogs resembling the Brittany can be seen in paintings from the 17th century. The first written evidence that describes the Brittany comes from 1850 in which a small bobtailed hunting dog is described. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1934.

The Brittany's coat is relatively easy to care for. The coat requires regular brushing but it is not very long and most owners find them easy to groom. The coat is usually orange and white or liver and white. The coat may be either patched or roaned. The coat is dense and flat or wavy but it shouldn't be curly.

Brittany's should not have long feathering like Setters.

Brittany's are usually about 17 1/2 to 20 inches tall at the top of the shoulder. They typically weight between 30 and 40 pounds.

The eyes of the Brittany should have the soft expression that is usually seen in a bird dog. Darker eyes are preferred.

Dogs may be tailless or have a docked tail about four inches long.

The overall impression of a Brittany should be that he is a medium-sized, leggy dog. He should be strong, vigorous, energetic and quick of movement.

Brittany's are happy, alert dogs and should never be mean or shy.

Brittany's are very good with children and make excellent family dogs. They tend to be devoted to their families. Like many sporting dogs, they can be "velcro" dogs -- they want to be with people all the time. Although they are a hunting dog they tend to have a soft disposition and they may not do well if they are kenneled. They thrive when kept in a family environment.

Brittany's generally live 14-15 years and their health is usually quite good. They may have problems with hip dysplasia so you should ask breeders about the hip testing for the parents of any puppy you are considering. Brittany's are also disposed to ear infections since they have long, floppy ears. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent ear infections.

Brittany's do require lots of exercise. They are an active dog and they can develop behavior problems if they don't receive enough exercise.

by: Tristan Andrews

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