Brittany Breed Information and Facts

Considering getting a Brittany? Makes sure you know the characteristics of the breed. We've put together the following Brittany breed information and facts to create a profile of this dog so you have the critical information necessary to make a decision.

 

 

An athletic and affectionate breed, the Brittany is beloved as both a hunting dog and companion. The Brittany has a life expectancy of 12 years and produces an average of 6 puppies per litter, although they can have as many as 11.

 

The Brittany is named for the French province from which they originated. The first official documentation of the Brittany dates back to 1850 when an English clergyman wrote about his experience hunting with the new breed. However, the existence of the Brittany may go back even further. Paintings from the 17th century show dogs similar to the Brittany being used to capture small animals.

 

Originally called a “French Spaniel,” there is a strong resemblance between the Brittany and the Welsh Springer Spaniel. Many believe the two breeds were mixed at some point or at least share some of the same ancestry. Some still refer to the Brittany as the “Brittany Spaniel,” although the American Kennel Club officially dropped “Spaniel” from their name in 1982.

 

The Brittany has a beautiful orange and white or liver and white coat that is slightly feathered. They are distinguished by their deep set, amber eyes with heavy, expressive brows. The Brittany is a medium-sized dog with long legs, weighing between 28 and 33 pounds and standing between 17 and 21 inches tall.

 

When it comes to grooming, the Brittany requires little care. The breed sheds lightly and their short coat needs only a regular brushing and an occasional bath. Of course, if the Brittany is used for hunting, they may need baths more frequently. A Brittany who hunts should also have their ears checked and cleaned following their adventures to prevent infection.

 

The Brittany is a happy and loyal dog. Their natural instinct to hunt and run makes them alert, adventures and playful.  

 

The Brittany is a high energy dog that needs to stay busy both physically and mentally. The breed loves to be with their family above anything else and if they are left alone for too long, they are likely to get into trouble by chewing furniture or digging holes in the yard.

 

The Brittany is well behaved around children and often acts as a protector and guard dog. Most Brittanies are polite; if a little shy, around strangers.

 

The Brittany is smart and easy to train, making them an ideal breed for hunters or first-time dog owners. Whether trained as a hunting dog or a companion, a Brittany wants to please their owner. They are known for being shy and sensitive, and respond best to calm, consistent training. The Brittany is motivated by affection and other positive reinforcement.

 

Although the Brittany gets along well with children and is friendly to strangers, they should be socialized as early as possible to help them overcome their shyness and manage their energy.

 

The Brittany requires plenty of activity and attention. If they do not have some type of regular activity, they can act out. They love to run and roam and can make great jogging companions. The Brittany does best in a home with a big yard and is not well suited to apartment life.