The Brittany is a bundle of boundless energy in a compact, athletic package. Formerly known as the Brittany Spaniel, the “Spaniel” was officially dropped from the name in 1982 because his hunting style more closely resembles that of a pointer or a setter. He points game rather than flushing it like a traditional spaniel.

Whatever you call him, he is one of the most popular and versatile hunting dogs in the world. He is fast, agile, and seemingly tireless. At home, he is a happy, affectionate family dog who wants to be involved in absolutely everything you do. But prospective owners must be warned: if you don’t give him enough vigorous exercise, he will literally bounce off the walls. This is a high-octane dog for a high-octane lifestyle.

History and Origin: The French Pocket Pointer

The breed originated in the rugged French province of Brittany (Bretagne), located on the northwestern peninsula of France. In the mid-19th century, French hunters needed a small, versatile dog that could hunt woodcock and partridge in the dense brush and heathland of the region. They needed a dog that was easy to transport and inexpensive to feed. They crossed their local small spaniels with English Setters and Pointers brought over by British aristocrats who came to shoot partridge.

The result was a “pocket pointer”—a dog with the keen nose and pointing instinct of a setter but the compact size and agility of a spaniel. The dogs were bred strictly for performance. The first recognizable Brittany was a white and mahogany dog named “Boy,” born in 1896. The breed was officially recognized in France in 1907 and in the US in 1934. Today, there is a slight divergence in type: American Brittanys tend to be taller and faster (running big fields), while French Brittanys are smaller and work closer to the hunter.

Physical Characteristics

The Brittany is a leggy, square-built dog. He is built for speed and agility.

• Height: 17.5-20.5 inches (44-52 cm).
• Weight: 30-40 pounds (14-18 kg).

Distinctive Features

• Legs: Long for his size, giving him a ground-covering stride.
• Ears: Short, triangular, and set high.
• Coat: Dense, flat, or wavy. Not curly. Minimal feathering compared to other spaniels.
• Colors: Orange and white or liver and white. Roaning (ticking) is common.
• Tail: Naturally short or docked to less than 4 inches. Some are born tail-less.

Temperament and Personality: The Happy Camper

Brittanys are famously happy.

The Worker

They are intense in the field. They love to run and hunt. They have a “soft” mouth for retrieving.

The Family Dog

They are sensitive and affectionate. They bond closely with their family. They can be prone to separation anxiety (“velcro dogs”).

The Energy

They have high energy. They are not couch potatoes.

Training and Exercise Needs: High Octane

Exercise

The Brittany is a tireless worker. He needs rigorous exercise, not just a casual stroll.

• Daily: An hour of vigorous running, hunting, or off-leash play is the minimum. If you are a runner, he is your dream partner. He will outlast you.
• Sports: They excel in dog sports. Agility, flyball, dock diving, and field trials are perfect outlets for their energy and drive.
• Mental Stimulation: A bored Brittany is a destructive Brittany. He needs a job to do.

Training

He is smart, willing, and sensitive.

• Softness: He has a “soft” temperament. Harsh corrections or yelling will cause him to shut down or urinate submissively. He lives for your praise. Positive reinforcement is the only way to train him.
• Socialization: Early socialization is key. Some Brittanys can be shy or submissive (submissive urination is a known trait) if not properly confident.

Health and Lifespan

Brittanys are generally a very healthy and robust breed, often living 12 to 14 years.

• Hip Dysplasia: Like many active breeds, hip dysplasia can occur. Responsible breeders screen for this.
• Epilepsy: The breed can be prone to seizures.
• Hypothyroidism: Can cause lethargy and weight gain.
• Cleft Palate: Occasionally seen in puppies.

Grooming and Care: Wash and Wear

The Brittany is a low-maintenance “wash and wear” dog.

• Brushing: A weekly brushing with a soft brush or hound glove will keep the coat in good condition and remove loose hair.
• Bathing: Bathe only when dirty. Their coat tends to shed dirt easily.
• Ears: Because they are drop ears, they trap moisture. Check and clean them weekly to prevent infections.
• Nails: Active dogs wear them down, but check regularly.

Nutrition

Active dogs need high-quality fuel.

• Quality: Feed a high-protein, high-quality kibble to support his energy levels.
• Weight: If he is not hunting or running daily, be careful not to overfeed, as he can become overweight.

Is a Brittany Right for You?

The Brittany is an amazing dog, but he is high-energy.

Yes, if:

• You are an active hunter, runner, or hiker.
• You want a medium-sized dog that travels well.
• You want a happy, affectionate, and sensitive companion.
• You are willing to use positive training methods.

No, if:

• You live in an apartment without a yard.
• You work long hours and the dog will be crated.
• You want a fierce guard dog (he loves everyone).
• You want a “couch potato” pet.

For the active family who wants a partner for every adventure, the Brittany is the perfect, portable, happy-go-lucky friend.