Brittany Breed Guide
Also known as: Brittany Spaniel, Épagneul Breton
Compact sporting dogs with endless energy, Brittanys are eager hunting partners who also make devoted, active household companions.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
14-20 kg
Lifespan
12-14 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Medium
Weight
14-20 kg
Lifespan
12-14 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Brittanys
The Brittany originated in the Brittany region of France during the 17th century, developed from various spaniels and setters to create an ideal pointing and retrieving dog. Originally called the Brittany Spaniel, the breed name was shortened in 1982 to reflect their pointing rather than flushing heritage.
Brittanys are medium-sized dogs with dense, flat coats in orange and white or liver and white patterns. They're known for their eager expressions, athletic build, and boundless energy in the field.
These dogs are intelligent, eager to please, and make excellent family pets for active households. They require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation, excelling in hunting, agility, and other dog sports. They're generally good with children and other pets when properly socialised. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, certain eye conditions, and epilepsy. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Brittanys
Expert advice on keeping your Brittany healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Maintaining optimal nutrition proves essential for supporting the remarkable energy levels characteristic of Brittanys. These athletic dogs require carefully balanced meals featuring high-quality protein sources to sustain their active lifestyle and maintain healthy muscle mass. A well-structured feeding plan should incorporate lean meats, nutritious fats, and complex carbohydrates to fuel their daily activities.
Portion control plays a crucial role in managing a Brittany's diet effectively. While these enthusiastic dogs may eagerly anticipate mealtimes, it's important to resist overfeeding despite their seemingly boundless energy. Establishing consistent feeding schedules and measuring portions helps prevent weight gain that could impact their agility and overall health.
Hydration demands particular attention for Brittanys, especially during periods of intense activity. Fresh, clean water should always be readily available, and incorporating moisture-rich foods can provide additional hydration support. Working closely with veterinary professionals to adjust portions based on activity levels, age, and overall health status ensures your Brittany receives appropriate nutrition while maintaining a healthy weight.
How healthy is your Brittany?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Brittanys from our community of pet parents
Brittany dogs are known for their upbeat and friendly temperament. They are intelligent, energetic and enjoy the company of their human families. These dogs are also known to be quite sensitive and thrive on positive reinforcement. They are excellent with children and generally get along well with other dogs, making them a wonderful choice for a family pet.
Dog Breeds Similar to Brittany
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Brittany
Vizsla
Hungary's golden athletes, Vizslas are affectionate, energetic sporting dogs whose velcro nature and athletic ability suit very active owners wanting devoted companions.
Pointer
Classic bird dogs with natural style, Pointers are athletic, gentle sporting dogs whose instinctive pointing ability and friendly nature suit sporting enthusiasts.
English Setter
Elegant and gentle, English Setters are sporting dogs whose feathery coats and friendly nature make them beautiful, active household members.