Meet the Breed: The Brittany

Overview:

• Height: 17"- 21”
• Weight: 30-35 pounds
• Historical function: Bird hunting
• Modern function: Companion, hunting
• AKC classification: Sporting

Physical Characteristics:

The Brittany is a medium-sized leggy dog with floppy ears, and a medium wavy or flat coat. The coat colors may be orange and white, liver and white, liver tricolored, black tricolored, and black and white. Usually the tail is docked, but that practice is falling out of favor and is illegal in parts of the world.

History of the Breed:

The name "Brittany" comes from a region in northwestern France. Orange and white spaniels were pictured in tapestries from the 17th century. The dogs made excellent bird retrievers. Prior to the 1982, this breed was referred to the Brittany Spaniel, but it is now officially called simply Brittany.

Temperament:

The Brittany is happy and active and is popular with hunters and pet owners alike due to the intelligence and trainability. As bright, active dogs, Brittanys need a good amount of exercise to keep them from being destructive or high strung. Good with children when socialized from a young age.

• Best suited for: Active families and hunters.
  
• Preferred living conditions: The Brittany loves hunting and as a family dog, a fenced yard is a must. 
  

Care and Health:

• Grooming requirements: Easy to care for with regular brushing. Light shedder.
• Exercise needs: Daily walk to keep these dogs well behaved.
• Life expectancy: 12-15 years.
• Health concerns: May be prone to hip dysplasia, seizures, and breast cancer.

Breed Club Links: The American Brittany Club

BaxterBoo.com Perfect Pairings: Gourdo Interactive Dog Toy by RuffWear.

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Photo courtesy of uberphot.