The Brittany is a high-energy sporting breed that requires significant exercise. This native of France is affectionate and smart.

Physical Characteristics

• Medium build
• Round head with high-set ears, deep-set eyes and dry, taut lips
• Coat: Short, somewhat feathered hair; comes in orange and white, liver and white or tri-colored
• Hazel or amber eyes
• Nose can be fawn, tan, brown or dark pink; never black
• Naturally tailless or docked to four inches
• Height: 17-21 inches
• Weight: 30-40 pounds
• Average lifespan: 10-12 years

Temperament

• Happy, affectionate, kind, obedient, smart, gentle, eager to please
• Interaction with people: Good with children if properly socialized; can be too energetic for small children
• Level of attention needed: Needs significant companionship
• Training: Needs early socialization

At Home

• Not recommended for apartments; best in rural setting
• Needs long, daily walks or jogs

Brief History

• Originated in the 1800s in the Brittany province of France
• Ancestors date back to 150 A.D.
• Depicted in 17th century tapestries and paintings
• First written documentation was a clergyman’s account of an 1850 hunting trip
• First brought to the U.S. around 1931

Fido's Facts

• Initially registered as the Brittany spaniel, this breed is actually a member of the pointers; in 1982 “spaniel” was officially dropped from the name
• Talents include hunting, pointing and retrieving
• More than 500 Brittanys have achieved the title of Dual Champion (winner of both field and show competitions) at American Kennel Club dog shows