Viewing 0 of 2824 breeders
Find Brittany (Breton) breeders near you
The Brittany (Épagneul Breton) is a compact, athletic French gundog with a short or bobbed tail and easy‑care coat. Affectionate, sensitive, and highly energetic, it needs substantial daily exercise and gentle, positive training, thriving as both an active family companion and versatile hunting dog.
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.