Brittany (Breton)

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Compact, athletic gundog from France, known as the Brittany or Épagneul Breton, prized for its lively, affectionate nature and hunting talent
• Medium sized, often described as “all in one piece,” with a short tail or naturally bobbed tail and a soft, easy to maintain coat
• Highly energetic and intelligent, needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well behaved
• Generally friendly with children and sociable with other dogs when well socialized, but can be sensitive and not fond of harsh handling
• Versatile partner in modern life, from family companion and jogging partner to active hunting dog, agility dog, and scent work enthusiast

Appearance & Coat

The Brittany, or Breton, is a medium sized pointing dog with a compact, athletic outline. When you see a good Brittany in motion, the first impression is of balance, lightness, and enthusiasm. Nothing about the dog feels heavy or exaggerated. The body is slightly shorter than the height at the withers, which gives the breed a square, agile look that suits a working gundog moving through fields and cover.

Adult males typically stand around 47 to 51 centimeters at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller at 46 to 50 centimeters. The weight range is generally between 14 and 18 kilograms, depending on sex, bone structure, and fitness. A well conditioned Brittany should look lean but muscular, with a deep chest for good lung capacity and a strong back that supports long, active days outdoors. Although compact, this is not a toy or delicate dog. The bone is solid but refined, and the whole dog gives the impression of energy and endurance.

The head is clean and refined, without looseness or heaviness. Ears are set high, relatively short, and lie close to the head, often fringed with light feathering that adds charm without becoming cumbersome. The eyes have a kind, alert expression that many owners describe as “sparkling,” reflecting the lively, eager character of the breed. The muzzle is neither long and narrow nor short and blunt. Instead, it is well balanced and suitable for carrying game gently when working in the field.

One characteristic people immediately notice is the tail. Many Brittanys are born with a naturally short tail, sometimes just a few centimeters long. Others have a slightly longer tail, but the ideal in the standard is short, carried level with the topline when the dog is alert. This short tail contributes to the tidy silhouette and is also practical in dense undergrowth.

The coat of the Brittany is fine to medium in texture, tight lying and not overly long. It offers natural protection against weather and rough terrain but does not form heavy fringes or excessive feathering that would catch burrs. On the ears, legs, and underside of the body there may be light feathering, which should be silky and not woolly. The coat is not curly, and a straight or slightly wavy texture is typical.

Colors are one of the most visually striking features of the breed. Traditional and widely seen combinations include:

• White and orange
• White and liver (brown)
• White and black
• Tricolor (white, black, and tan or white, liver, and tan)
• Roan patterns, such as orange roan or liver roan

The white is usually broken up by patches and ticking that can give a speckled appearance. The overall pattern often blends beautifully with field and woodland surroundings, which is an advantage in its original hunting role.

Coat care for a Brittany is refreshingly straightforward. The breed does not have the heavy, double coat of some other working dogs, so routine grooming is easy if done regularly:

• Brush at least once or twice a week to remove loose hair and dirt. A soft slicker brush or a rubber grooming mitt works well.
• Check and gently comb out light feathering on ears, chest, and legs to prevent knots, especially after country walks.
• Inspect ears weekly. The drop ear can trap moisture and debris, so wipe them carefully and keep them dry. This is particularly important for dogs that swim often.
• Trim nails regularly, as active dogs that work on soft ground may not wear them down enough naturally.
• After walks in fields or forests, run your hands through the coat to check for burrs, grass seeds, and small twigs, especially between the toes and in the feathering.

Most Brittanys shed moderately throughout the year, with seasonal shedding in spring and autumn. Shedding is usually manageable with regular brushing. Bathing can be done as needed, typically every couple of months, or after particularly muddy adventures. Use a gentle dog shampoo to preserve the natural oils that help protect the coat and skin.

Overall, the Brittany’s appearance reflects its function. Everything about the build, from the balanced proportions to the protective yet easy care coat, is designed to support a tireless, eager worker that can also fit comfortably into family life.

Temperament & Personality

The Brittany is often described as a cheerful, affectionate, and energetic companion that thrives on close interaction with people. In many ways, the breed combines the sensitivity and attachment of a spaniel with the focus and drive of a pointing dog. This makes the Brittany a particularly rewarding partner for active owners who enjoy having a dog that is truly part of their daily life.

At home, many Brittanys show a strong desire to be near their people. They are usually not aloof or distant. Instead, they like to follow you from room to room, check on what you are doing, and settle nearby when you sit down. This can be charming, but it also means that they do not enjoy being left alone for long hours each day. If a Brittany is regularly isolated without company or stimulation, it may become bored, vocal, or destructive.

With families, the breed tends to be affectionate and playful. A well socialized Brittany can be delightful with children, especially school aged kids who know how to handle dogs respectfully. The dog’s natural enthusiasm often leads to lively games in the garden or fetch sessions in the park. Care should be taken around very small children, as a young or boisterous Brittany may accidentally knock them over while racing around. As with any breed, interactions between dogs and children should always be supervised, and children should be taught not to pull ears or tail, or disturb the dog when resting.

Brittanys are often friendly toward strangers, although individual dogs vary. Some may be quite open and sociable, greeting visitors with wagging tail and curious sniffs. Others can be reserved at first, especially if they have not been exposed to a variety of people and places when young. The breed is not typically a natural guard dog, but many will bark to signal something unusual. They are more suited as alert dogs than as protectors.

With other dogs, the Brittany is usually social and playful when properly socialized. Many enjoy dog parks, group walks, and canine sports where they can meet others. Their body language is often lively and expressive, with bouncy play styles. However, as a hunting breed, they may have a strong prey drive. This can influence how they behave around smaller pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, or birds. Some Brittanys can live peacefully with cats, especially if they grow up together, but it depends on the dog and how introductions are managed. Owners should not assume that every Brittany will be automatically safe around small animals.

One of the temperamental hallmarks of the breed is sensitivity. Brittanys typically respond poorly to harsh, loud, or heavy handed handling. Raised voices, rough corrections, or inconsistent rules may cause the dog to become anxious or shut down. On the other hand, they usually respond beautifully to calm, confident guidance and plenty of praise. When they feel secure and understood, Brittanys are eager to please and form deep, trusting bonds with their people.

Common challenges in the daily life of a Brittany often arise from their intelligence and energy. Boredom is the enemy. A Brittany that does not receive enough physical and mental exercise may show:

• Restlessness and pacing
• Excessive barking or whining
• Destructive chewing
• Escaping or roaming if given the chance

These behaviors are usually signs of unmet needs rather than “bad” character. Once the dog is given a clear routine, interesting walks, and some kind of “job” such as training, scent games, or dog sports, these problems often improve dramatically.

Another challenge can be recall outdoors. Because many Brittanys have a strong instinct to search and chase, some will run far to follow interesting scents. Consistent training, use of a long line during adolescence, and building a good foundation of engagement can help a great deal. However, some individuals may never be fully reliable off leash in high wildlife areas, so owners must be realistic and cautious.

In the right home, the Brittany’s temperament is a true joy. This is a dog that wakes up ready for the day, eager for adventure, and then happily curls up at your feet in the evening. Their combination of warmth, alertness, and sensitivity makes them wonderful companions for people who appreciate an interactive, expressive dog.

Training & Exercise

Training a Brittany can be an enjoyable experience, provided you understand what motivates this breed. These dogs are intelligent, responsive, and quick to learn, but they also have an independent streak shaped by their history as working gundogs that search fields and woodlands at some distance from the handler. The key is to channel that independence into cooperation, rather than trying to suppress it.

Positive reinforcement methods suit the Brittany very well. They usually respond strongly to:

• Food rewards
• Toy play, especially fetch
• Verbal praise and affectionate touch

Training sessions should be kept short, engaging, and varied. Repetitive drills can quickly bore an intelligent dog that was bred to make its own decisions in the field. Mixing obedience exercises with fun activities like scent games, short retrieves, or balance work on low obstacles helps keep the dog’s attention and enthusiasm.

Early training should focus on basics that are especially important for a hunting bred, energetic dog. These include:

• Reliable recall, starting indoors and in safe, low distraction areas, then gradually building up difficulty
• Loose leash walking, so that daily walks are pleasant and controlled
• Calm behavior around other dogs and people, including settling on a mat in public places
• Impulse control exercises such as waiting at doors, sitting before meals, and brief stays

Because Brittanys are sensitive, avoid harsh corrections, loud shouting, or aversive training tools. These can damage trust and may create anxiety or defensive behaviors. Instead, guide the dog with clear signals, reward desired actions generously, and manage the environment so that the dog does not repeatedly rehearse unwanted behaviors.

Exercise needs for the Brittany are significant. This breed is not suitable for a very sedentary household. A typical adult Brittany will need at least one to two hours of physical activity per day, combined with mental stimulation. This does not have to be extreme athletic effort, but it should include a mixture of:

• Brisk walks or jogs
• Off leash running in safe, enclosed areas, if recall is reliable
• Ball games or frisbee sessions
• Scent work, such as searching for hidden treats or toys
• Structured training that tires the brain as well as the body

Many Brittanys thrive in dog sports and activities that allow them to use their natural talents. Popular choices include:

• Agility, which uses their speed and agility in a controlled setting
• Obedience or rally, which builds focus and teamwork
• Field work or hunting tests, allowing them to point and retrieve in a guided way
• Mantrailing and tracking, where their excellent nose can be fully used
• Canicross or bikejoring, for very sporty owners who enjoy running or cycling with a canine partner

For working or hunting households, the Brittany can be a highly capable pointing dog for birds such as partridge and pheasant. Proper training for field work should start gently and positively, ideally with guidance from experienced trainers or clubs familiar with pointing breeds. Even if you do not hunt, offering search games in tall grass or woodland can satisfy some of the dog’s natural searching instincts.

Puppies and young dogs require careful balance between exercise and rest. Their joints and growth plates are still developing, so intense jumping, long runs, or repeated stair climbing should be avoided. Instead, focus on short, frequent outings, gentle play, socialization with well chosen people and dogs, and basic obedience. As the dog matures, activity can gradually increase to full adult levels.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical. Many behavioral issues in Brittanys stem from a lack of mental challenge rather than insufficient walking distance. Useful mental activities include:

• Puzzle feeders and slow feeding toys at mealtimes
• Short daily training sessions where you teach tricks or refresh commands
• Scent games, such as hiding treats around the home for the dog to sniff out
• Rotating toys, so that “old” toys feel new again when reintroduced after a few days

In summary, the Brittany thrives in a home where training is seen as an enjoyable shared activity, not a chore. When their minds and bodies are given healthy outlets, these dogs become attentive, polite, and deeply bonded companions who are a pleasure to live and work with.

Health

The Brittany is generally considered a robust and hardy breed, especially when bred and raised with care. However, like all purebred dogs, Brittanys have certain health issues that occur more frequently within the breed. Responsible breeders work to reduce these risks through health testing, thoughtful breeding decisions, and honest communication with puppy buyers.

One of the more commonly discussed issues in the Brittany is hip dysplasia. This is a developmental condition where the hip joint does not fit perfectly, which can lead to discomfort, lameness, and arthritis over time. In many countries, reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs with hip scoring or radiographic evaluation before mating. When you are looking for a puppy, it is wise to ask about the parents’ hip scores and choose lines where hip health is being actively monitored and improved. Keeping your Brittany at a healthy weight and avoiding excessive high impact exercise during growth also helps protect the hips.

Some Brittanys may be at risk for elbow dysplasia, although it is less commonly reported than hip issues. Again, responsible breeders may screen elbows and monitor for any signs of lameness or joint discomfort in their breeding stock. As an owner, you should pay attention to any persistent limping, stiffness after exercise, or reluctance to jump, and consult a veterinarian promptly if you notice such signs.

Eye health is another area of focus. Certain hereditary eye conditions can appear in pointing breeds, such as cataracts or retinal problems. Many breeders have their dogs examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist, often under organized eye testing schemes. When choosing a puppy, ask if both parents have had recent eye examinations and what the results were.

Epilepsy has been noted in some Brittany lines. This is a neurological condition that can cause seizures. If you are speaking with a breeder, it is appropriate to ask whether there have been any cases of epilepsy in the family lines and what steps are being taken to avoid passing on this risk. While epilepsy cannot always be completely predicted, transparency and record keeping are valuable tools in managing it.

Like many active breeds, Brittanys can also suffer from injuries linked to their energetic lifestyle. Cuts, torn nails, muscle strains, and occasional sprains may occur when a dog is racing through rough terrain or jumping obstacles. Regular checks after exercise, sensible warm up and cool down routines, and keeping the dog in good muscular condition all help reduce such injuries. Many owners of highly active Brittanys also find value in periodic checkups with a physiotherapist or chiropractor who is experienced with sporting dogs.

Ear issues can occur due to the drop ear structure, which can trap moisture and debris. Dogs that swim often or get wet in the field may be more prone to ear infections. Routine ear cleaning with a suitable product, and careful drying after water activities, can prevent many problems. If you notice head shaking, ear scratching, redness, or a bad smell from the ear, treatment should be sought quickly, as ear infections can become quite painful.

Brittanys usually have a good life expectancy for a medium sized dog. Many live between 12 and 14 years, and some reach 15 or even 16 years in good health. To support a long, healthy life, owners should focus on:

• Providing a balanced, high quality diet appropriate to the dog’s age and activity level
• Keeping the dog lean, as excess weight puts strain on joints and organs
• Regular vaccinations and parasite control as recommended by a veterinarian
• Dental care, including tooth brushing or dental chews, to prevent gum disease
• Routine health checkups, at least once a year, to catch any developing problems early

In many regions, recommended health tests for breeding Brittanys include hip evaluation, sometimes elbow evaluation, and hereditary eye testing. DNA tests may also be available for certain conditions, depending on the country and the lines involved. A serious breeder will gladly explain which tests they use and why.

For prospective owners, it is helpful to budget for both routine and unexpected veterinary costs. Even a generally healthy Brittany may need occasional treatment for minor injuries or age related issues. Having pet insurance or a dedicated savings fund can provide peace of mind and ensure that you can give your dog the care it needs at every stage of life.

Overall, the Brittany’s health profile is encouraging, especially in lines where breeders combine active working ability with structured health testing. With proper care, regular checkups, and a lifestyle that matches their nature, most Brittanys enjoy many years of energetic, happy life alongside their human families.

History & Origins

The Brittany, known in its homeland as the Épagneul Breton, has its roots in the rugged, windswept region of Brittany in northwestern France. This area is characterized by rolling fields, heather covered moors, and coastal landscapes, which shaped the type of dog hunters needed. Local sportsmen required a compact, hardy, and versatile pointing dog that could work over varied terrain and in changeable Atlantic weather, locate game birds, and retrieve them gently.

The early ancestors of the Brittany are believed to include local French spaniels and possibly dogs brought by visiting hunters from Britain, including pointing and setter types. The name “Épagneul” was historically used in France for various pointing spaniels that worked within gun range, flushing or pointing game for hunters on foot. Over time, the dogs of Brittany developed their own distinct style and look, adapted to the local hunting conditions and preferences.

By the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the Brittany type was becoming clearly defined. Hunters appreciated a dog that was smaller and more agile than some of the larger setters, yet with excellent stamina and a keen nose. The breed’s ability to search quickly, point game firmly, and then retrieve made it a valuable partner for shooting parties. It was especially associated with hunting woodcock, partridge, and pheasant.

The first official breed standard for the Brittany was drawn up in France in the early 1900s. The breed gained formal recognition under the name “Épagneul Breton à courte queue” reflecting the naturally short tail often seen in the breed. As interest grew, Brittanys began to appear outside France, first across Europe and then further abroad. Enthusiasts admired the combination of compact size, strong work ethic, and friendly temperament.

During the twentieth century, the Brittany spread throughout Europe and to North America, where it also became established as a versatile bird dog. In some countries, the breed became known simply as the “Brittany,” while in others the French name and heritage are emphasized. Although slight variations in type and emphasis exist between working and show lines, and between different regions, the core traits of the breed have remained remarkably stable: a lively, intelligent, and willing dog that excels in the field and fits well into family life.

In France and many European countries, the focus remains on preserving the Brittany as a dual purpose dog, valued both for its working ability and its appearance. Field trials and hunting tests are important tools for breeders who wish to maintain the dog’s natural pointing and retrieving instincts. At the same time, the breed is a familiar sight at dog shows, where judges look for the distinctive square outline, balanced construction, and expressive head described in the standards.

Today, the Brittany is used around the world as a versatile gun dog for a variety of game birds in fields, moorland, woodland, and even wetlands. It is appreciated by professional hunters and weekend sportsmen alike. Beyond hunting, the breed has found roles in modern activities such as search and rescue, detection work, and many canine sports, where its agility, nose, and eagerness are strong assets.

In many urban and suburban homes, the Brittany now lives primarily as an active companion animal. The same qualities that once helped it work long hours in challenging landscapes now help it thrive as a jogging partner, hiking buddy, and family friend. The history of close cooperation between dog and hunter has produced a breed that naturally looks to people for guidance and partnership, which is one of the reasons so many owners feel such a strong bond with their Brittany.

The story of the Brittany is therefore not just about a regional hunting dog from France. It is about a small, adaptable pointing breed that has successfully transitioned into modern life without losing its essential character. Whether seen in the fields of Brittany, in a forest in Denmark, on a training ground in Germany, or on a walking path in another part of the world, the Brittany remains true to its origins as a compact, tireless, and affectionate working companion.

Living with the Breed

Living with a Brittany is a rewarding experience for people who enjoy an active, involved relationship with their dog. This is not a breed that is content to lie around all day and be walked only for a few minutes in the evening. Instead, the Brittany tends to thrive in homes where exercise, training, and shared activities are part of the daily routine.

New owners should first consider their lifestyle. If you like long walks, hikes, runs, or outdoor sports, a Brittany can be a wonderful match. They are sturdy enough to keep up on longer adventures, but compact enough to fit comfortably in most living spaces and cars. They can adapt to life in a house with a garden or an apartment, provided their exercise needs are met. For apartment living, extra effort is required to provide multiple daily outings, opportunities to run in safe areas, and mental enrichment at home.

Commitment is an important word when thinking about this breed. A Brittany puppy will grow into a busy, curious adolescent that tests boundaries, explores everything with its nose, and may seem to have endless energy. This stage requires patience, consistent training, and thoughtful management. Crate training can be helpful for creating a safe resting place and preventing destructive behavior when you cannot supervise. Puppy proofing the home, removing tempting items from reach, and providing appropriate chew toys are also wise steps.

Daily life with an adult Brittany typically includes:

• Morning and evening walks, ideally with off leash time where safe and legal
• Play sessions, such as fetch or tug, to burn off energy and strengthen your relationship
• Short training sessions spread throughout the day, reinforcing good manners and adding new skills
• Periods of calm in the home, teaching the dog to relax and settle rather than staying constantly “on the go”

Financially, owning a Brittany is similar to owning other medium sized, active breeds. Annual costs will usually include:

• Quality food, adjusted for activity level. Working or very athletic dogs may require more calories.
• Routine veterinary care, such as vaccinations, parasite prevention, and annual health checks.
• Pet insurance or a savings plan, to prepare for unexpected illness or injury.
• Grooming supplies, including brushes, nail clippers or grinder, shampoo, and ear cleaner.
• Equipment such as collars, harnesses, leads, identification tags, and perhaps a GPS tracker if you do a lot of off leash hiking.
• Training classes or activities, which are often very beneficial especially during the first years.

Useful equipment for a Brittany often includes a comfortable, escape proof harness for walks, as this can provide better control than a collar alone during the early training stages. A long line is extremely helpful when working on recall in open areas. Sturdy, chew resistant toys, puzzle feeders, and treat dispensing balls are valuable tools for keeping an intelligent dog occupied.

At home, many Brittanys appreciate having more than one resting place. A soft bed in a quiet corner allows for undisturbed naps, while another mat or bed in the living area lets them rest near the family. Teaching a “go to bed” or “place” command is very practical, as it allows you to send the dog to a chosen spot when needed, such as when guests arrive or during mealtimes.

Socialization is crucial in the first months. Introducing the puppy to a variety of people, other dogs, sounds, surfaces, and environments builds confidence and helps prevent later shyness or overexcitement. Well run puppy classes and controlled play sessions with friendly adult dogs are often very positive experiences.

For people who hunt or wish to participate in field activities, living with a Brittany includes planning regular training days and hunting trips. Many working owners will schedule parts of their year around the hunting season. Outside the season, they often maintain the dog’s fitness and skills through other activities and regular field training. For non hunting owners, local dog sport clubs can provide an outlet through agility, tracking, scent work, or obedience.

Emotionally, a Brittany often forms a close bond with its main caregiver. They like routine and clear communication and can be upset by frequent changes in household members or schedule. That said, they are usually adaptable if their core needs for security, activity, and attention are met. Most do well in families where everyone participates in the dog’s care and training, which also helps prevent over attachment to a single person.

If you appreciate a dog that is lively yet affectionate, keen to work yet happy to cuddle, and if you are prepared to invest time each day in meeting its needs, the Brittany can be a deeply satisfying companion. Living with this breed means embracing a lifestyle that includes fresh air, movement, training challenges, and many moments of shared joy, from watching your dog race across a field with ears flying to feeling it sigh contentedly at your feet after a full and happy day.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical temperament of a Brittany and are they good family dogs?

They are generally friendly, affectionate, and highly people oriented. Most do very well in active families and tend to be gentle with children, but their energy level and enthusiasm can overwhelm very young kids if not supervised and trained. They thrive on close contact and tend to form strong bonds with their household.

How much exercise does a Brittany need each day?

This is a high energy pointing breed that usually needs at least 60 to 90 minutes of vigorous activity daily, not just casual walks. Off leash running in safe areas, field work, or structured sports such as agility and canicross suit them well. Without enough physical and mental exercise, they can become restless and develop problem behaviors.

Can a Brittany live in an apartment or is a house with a yard required?

Apartment living is possible if the dog receives plenty of daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation. They do not self exercise in a yard, but a securely fenced space can be very helpful for safe off leash running. The key factor is how much time the owner can devote to activity, not the size of the home.

What health problems are most common in Brittanys?

They are generally robust, but can be prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, certain eye diseases such as cataracts, and ear infections due to their drop ears. Responsible breeders usually screen hips and eyes and monitor for seizure disorders in their lines. Regular veterinary checks and keeping the dog at a lean weight help reduce risk of joint and other health issues.

Are Brittanys easy to train or are they too independent?

They tend to be intelligent, eager to please, and very responsive to positive reinforcement methods. Their hunting heritage gives them a strong prey drive and enthusiasm in the field, so early recall training and impulse control are important. Harsh corrections usually backfire with this sensitive breed and can damage trust.

Does a Brittany get along with other pets, including cats?

Many live peacefully with other dogs and can coexist with cats if raised together and properly supervised. However, their natural instinct is to chase birds and small wildlife, so introductions to smaller pets should be done carefully. Individual temperament and early socialization make a big difference in how they handle multi pet homes.

How much grooming does a Brittany’s coat require and do they shed a lot?

The medium length, lightly feathered coat is relatively low maintenance compared with many sporting breeds. Weekly brushing is usually enough to remove loose hair and prevent tangles, with more frequent work during seasonal shedding and after time in fields or brush. They do shed year round, but not typically as heavily as many double coated breeds.

Is the Brittany a hypoallergenic breed?

No, this breed is not considered hypoallergenic. They shed and produce dander, which can trigger symptoms in people with dog allergies. Individuals with sensitivities should spend time around adult dogs of this breed before committing to ownership.

How suitable is a Brittany for hunting and field work today?

The breed was developed as a versatile bird dog and many still have strong natural pointing and retrieving ability. They can perform well in upland bird hunting, field trials, and hunt tests with appropriate training and conditioning. Even non hunting homes should provide outlets that mimic field work, such as scent games or search tasks.

How long do Brittanys live and what can owners do to support a long, healthy life?

Average life expectancy is often between 12 and 14 years, with some individuals living longer. Keeping them lean, well exercised, mentally engaged, and on a balanced diet helps maintain overall health. Regular veterinary care, hip and eye checks when young, and prompt treatment of ear or skin issues are also important for longevity.

Sources

• The Kennel Club (UK)
• Société Centrale Canine (France)
• Dansk Kennel Klub (Denmark)
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
• Verein für Britische Hütehunde (Germany)