Information on the Brittany Spaniel

Is a versatile hunter, ideal for hunters who want a compact dog that can cover a lot of ground.

Because it is moderately sized, good-natured and easy to care for, the Brittany Spaniel is also popular as a companion dog, particularly for active persons.

Appearance of the Brittany Spaniel
Height: 17 - 21 inches
Weight: 35 - 40 pounds
Lifespan: About 10-12 years

The Brittany is a medium-sized dog with a long, lightly feathered single coat. The tail is either naturally short or docked to less than four inches. The ears are triangular shaped and short, slightly fringed and hang close to the head. The eyes are amber or hazel, depending on the coat color.

Brittany Spaniels colors include colors Orange & White, Liver & White, Black & White, Liver Tri-color, and Black Tricolor. Regular brushing of the coat is really all that is needed to keep it in good condition. Check the ears carefully, especially when the dog has been out in rough or brushy terrain. This breed is a light shedder.

Use of Brittany Spaniels in the field
The Brittany Spaniel points and hunts very similar to the manner of a setter and is used especially for hunting woodcock, partridge, and hare. An intelligent, active and enthusiastic hunter, this dog is easy to handle and train. Brittany Spaniels are resistant to cold and damp conditions and adapts to all types of terrain: woods, plains or hills. They have a marvelous instinct for retrieving from water.

The Brittany Spaniel is highly trainable and obedient but is very sensitive to reprimand. A gentle training approach is best. They are very active animals and have great stamina. When they are not hunting they need to be taken out on long daily walks or jogs.

The Brittany Spaniel at Home
The Brittany Spaniel is a loving and gentle animal that will get along very well with other members of the family. They are good with children if they are raised with them, and get along well with other animals.

The Brittany is not recommended for apartment life. Brittanys need extensive exercise. They should be taken on a long, brisk daily walk and do best with an active outdoor person or hunter. Brittanys who lack in mental/physical exercise may become nervous and or timid if unable to burn off energy.

The History of the Brittany Spaniel
The Brittany Spaniel originated in Brittany, a province in France. It is thought to be a cross between a Spaniel, a Pointer and perhaps the Orange & White Setter. They are most often found in the United Kingdom and France, but are also used as gun dogs in the United States. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1938 and is often referred to simply as the Brittany instead of the Brittany Spaniel.