The Brittany is a breed of gun dog that is primarily bred for bird hunting. Although the dog is a spaniel, the breed's working characteristics are more akin to a pointer or setter.

Appearance

Brittanies are mostly white with orange or liver spots. Individuals can have spots in combinations of these colors. Some individuals also have black spots, but this is contrary to breed standard. The coat is of moderate length, dense, flat, or wavy, with slight feathering on the ears and legs. Too much feathering is undesirable as it impedes the dog’s work in thick brush. The breed standard calls for a dog weighing between 30 and 40 pounds (13 to 18 kg) and standing 17½ to 20½ inches (44 to 52 cm). The dog is squareish when viewed from the side, with shoulder height equaling body length (from withers to base of tail). Show dogs have their tails docked in some countries, while the tails of working or companion dogs are frequently left long.

Temperament

The breed is noted for being easy to train, sensitive, and sweet-natured. Many enthusiasts agree that it takes little more than a stern look or cross word to chastise a Brittany. As a consequence, care must be taken during training so as not to break the dog’s spirit. Brittanies are excellent with children, but they are an exuberant breed and may accidentally harm small children. Brittanys get along well with other dogs, and enjoy working with other dogs as a team. The dogs are active and require frequent exercise and room to run.

As pets

Brittanies can make first-rate companion dogs, if they are given frequent opportunities to run. Their outgoing nature makes them poor candidates for watch dogs or protectors.

History

As the name implies, Brittanies were developed in the Brittany province of France in the 1800s.

Training, method of work

Brittanies are happiest when hunting. See the related sections in the gun dog article for details.

External links

• The American Brittany Club
• Brittany Club of Great Britain
• Société Centrale Canine (France)