Brittany Spaniel
Breed Description

The Brittany is recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide under the simple designation of "Brittany," though it is commonly known by several alternative names. The breed is frequently called the Brittany Spaniel, which was its official name in the United States until 1982 when the American Kennel Club formally dropped the "Spaniel" designation. This change reflected the breed's classification as a pointing dog rather than a traditional flushing spaniel. In its native France, the breed is known as the Epagneul Breton, which translates directly to "Brittany Spaniel" in English. Other regional names include the French Brittany, particularly when distinguishing between American and French bloodlines that have diverged somewhat in type.

The name "Brittany" derives from the Brittany region in northwestern France where the breed originated. Various informal nicknames used by enthusiasts include Brit, Brittany Wiegref, and American Brittany when referring to American-bred dogs. The breed may also be referenced historically as the Brittany Pointer, acknowledging its hunting style. Understanding these naming variations is particularly important for those researching breed history, as early documentation may use different designations that all refer to the same versatile sporting companion we recognize today.

The Brittany is officially recognized by all major international kennel organizations, each maintaining specific standards for the breed. The American Kennel Club (AKC) registers the breed as "Brittany" and classifies it within the Sporting Group. Visit their website at https://www.akc.org for complete breed standards. The United Kennel Club (UKC) also recognizes the breed as "Brittany" within their Gun Dog Group, with standards available at https://www.ukcdogs.com.

Internationally, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognizes the breed under its French name "Epagneul Breton" and classifies it in Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.2 (Continental Pointing Dogs, Spaniel type). The FCI standard can be found at https://www.fci.be. The Kennel Club (UK) registers the breed as "Brittany" within the Gundog Group, with information available at https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk. The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) recognizes the "Brittany" in the Sporting Group at https://www.ckc.ca.

The American Brittany Club, founded in 1942, serves as the national breed club in the United States and works closely with the AKC to maintain breed standards, promote responsible breeding, and organize events. In France, the Club de l'Epagneul Breton oversees breed development and preserves traditional French type. Notably, French and American standards have diverged somewhat over the decades, with American Brittanys typically standing slightly taller and exhibiting somewhat different hunting styles than their French counterparts.

The breed standard describes a compact, athletic dog with clean lines and an alert expression. Brittanys compete successfully in conformation shows, field trials, hunt tests, and various performance events. The breed is eligible for AKC titles in obedience, agility, tracking, rally, and dock diving, in addition to its traditional hunting certifications. Working certifications include Junior Hunter, Senior Hunter, and Master Hunter titles through AKC hunt tests, as well as Field Champion titles earned in competitive field trials. The breed's versatility is further demonstrated through its success in other venues, making it one of the few breeds that can excel in both show and field competition.

The Brittany presents as a medium-sized sporting dog with a compact, square-proportioned body that exemplifies athletic grace and agility. The overall silhouette should convey power without bulkiness, combining elegance with substance in a package designed for endurance and quick movement across varied terrain. Dogs typically stand between 17.5 and 20.5 inches at the withers, with an ideal weight ranging from 30 to 40 pounds. The breed displays a harmonious balance between all body parts, with no single feature dominating the appearance.

The head is proportionate to the body size, featuring a rounded skull that is of medium length. The stop is well-defined but not excessive, creating a distinct break between the skull and muzzle. Eyes are set well into the skull, expressing an alert and intelligent demeanor. Eye color should harmonize with coat color, typically appearing in shades of amber or dark brown, with darker eyes generally preferred. The expression is soft yet keen, reflecting the breed's dual nature as both a determined hunter and gentle companion. Ears are set high on the skull, positioned above eye level, and hang close to the head in a triangular shape with slightly rounded tips. When pulled forward, the ear leather should reach approximately to the nose tip.

The muzzle tapers gradually toward the nose without appearing either snipy or square. Lips are tight-fitting without excessive flews, contributing to the clean, refined head type. The nose features well-opened nostrils with coloration that matches or complements the coat, typically appearing in shades of brown, tan, or pink depending on the dog's color pattern. Jaws are strong enough to retrieve game but not overly heavy. The neck is of medium length, strong and muscular without being thick, rising smoothly from the shoulders and blending cleanly into the body without excessive dewlap.

The body structure emphasizes a square proportion, with the length from forechest to rear approximately equal to height at the withers. The topline is level or slopes very slightly from withers to croup, maintaining strength through the back. The chest reaches to the elbow level with well-sprung ribs that provide adequate lung capacity without creating a barrel-chested appearance. The loin is short and strong, connecting smoothly to a well-muscled croup that slopes gently. The breed may be born naturally tailless, have a naturally short tail, or have the tail docked to approximately four inches, though docking practices vary by country and regulation.

Front legs are straight and vertical when viewed from the front, with elbows held close to the body. Shoulders are sloping and muscular, providing the reach necessary for ground-covering movement. Pasterns are slightly sloped for shock absorption. The hindquarters demonstrate powerful muscling through the thighs and gaskins, with hocks well-let-down and perpendicular to the ground. Feet are compact and well-arched with thick pads, designed for navigating rocky or rough terrain. Dewclaws may be removed.

The coat is one of the breed's most distinctive features, appearing dense and either flat or slightly wavy, though never curly or silky. Hair length is medium, shorter on the head and front of the legs, with feathering evident on the ears and moderate feathering on the rear legs and belly. The coat texture provides weather resistance without being overly thick. Acceptable colors include orange and white, liver and white, with clear or roan patterns, and black is acceptable in the US standard though not in all countries. Tricolor patterns may appear but typically feature orange or liver with minimal black markings. Some ticking or roaning within the white areas is common and acceptable.

Movement should appear smooth, efficient, and ground-covering, demonstrating the breed's function as a tireless hunting companion. The gait shows good reach in front and strong drive from behind, with the topline remaining level and steady. At increased speeds, legs converge toward a center line of travel. The overall impression should be of a dog built for sustained work, capable of maintaining pace throughout a long day in the field while possessing the speed for quick bursts when locating or pursuing game birds.

The Brittany originated in the Brittany province of northwestern France, with the breed's development tracing back several centuries. Historical records and artwork from the 17th and 18th centuries depict dogs resembling modern Brittanys working alongside hunters in the French countryside. The breed evolved through the practical needs of French peasant hunters who required versatile dogs capable of pointing and retrieving game birds across varied terrain while being compact enough to live in modest homes. Unlike large pointing breeds developed for aristocratic estates, the Brittany was a working person's dog that needed to excel without requiring extensive resources.

The modern Brittany type became more refined during the mid-1800s in the small town of Pontou in the Douron Valley of Brittany. Local sportsmen crossed native spaniel-type dogs with English Setters that had been brought to the region by British hunters. These crosses aimed to combine the English dog's superior pointing instinct with the local dog's tractability, close-working range, and retrieving ability. The resulting dogs worked within gun range rather than ranging far afield, making them ideal for foot hunters working smaller parcels of land.

The first Brittany was officially registered in France in 1907, and the initial breed standard was drafted that same year. The club L'Epagneul Breton Club was founded in 1907 to preserve and promote the breed. French breeders emphasized maintaining the breed's working ability, ensuring that conformation standards never overshadowed field performance. During this formative period, naturally short tails became a recognized feature, with the breed club acknowledging both naturally tailless puppies and those born with full tails requiring docking.

Brittanys arrived in North America in the early 1900s, with the first imports coming to Mexico around 1925 and the first American litter born in 1928. The American Kennel Club granted official recognition to the breed in 1934 under the name "Brittany Spaniel." The breed's popularity grew steadily through the mid-20th century, particularly among bird hunters who appreciated the dog's size, versatility, and cooperative temperament. American breeders gradually developed a slightly different type than their French counterparts, with American dogs typically standing taller and exhibiting more animated hunting styles.

A significant milestone occurred in 1982 when the American Kennel Club officially changed the breed's name from "Brittany Spaniel" to simply "Brittany," recognizing that the breed functioned as a pointing dog rather than a traditional flushing spaniel. This change reflected the breed's classification based on working style rather than physical appearance. The United Kennel Club followed suit with similar recognition. Meanwhile, French breeders continued using the name Epagneul Breton, maintaining the "spaniel" designation despite the breed's pointing function.

Throughout the late 20th century, American and French breeding programs diverged noticeably in their emphasis. American breeders developed lines with increased height, reaching the upper limits of the standard, while French breeders maintained a more moderate size. These differences became pronounced enough that some enthusiasts distinguish between "American Brittanys" and "French Brittanys," though they remain the same breed with a common foundation. The American Brittany Club has periodically discussed whether to recognize these as distinct varieties, though no formal split has occurred.

The breed has maintained remarkable popularity in field competition, consistently ranking among the top contenders in pointing breed field trials and hunt tests. More dual champions have been titled in the Brittany than in any other sporting breed, demonstrating the successful preservation of both working ability and show quality within individual bloodlines. This achievement speaks to responsible breeding practices that have avoided the sharp divergence between field and show types that has affected many other sporting breeds.

Today, the Brittany ranks consistently among the top 30 most popular breeds in the United States, valued both as a versatile hunting companion and as an active family pet. The breed has also gained recognition in performance sports beyond hunting, excelling in agility, obedience, rally, and other competitions that showcase intelligence and athleticism. Conservation of the breed's working heritage remains a priority among dedicated breeders worldwide, with emphasis on maintaining the sound temperament, bidable nature, and natural hunting instincts that have characterized the Brittany for generations.

The Brittany possesses a temperament ideally suited for both field work and family companionship, combining enthusiasm with sensitivity in a uniquely balanced package. The breed demonstrates exceptional eagerness to please, working cooperatively with handlers rather than displaying the independence common in some hunting breeds. This collaborative nature makes Brittanys highly responsive to training while maintaining enough drive to work enthusiastically in challenging field conditions. They form intensely loyal bonds with their families and thrive on human companionship, often following their favorite people from room to room throughout the day.

Energy levels in the Brittany are consistently high throughout most of the dog's life, with puppies and young adults displaying seemingly boundless enthusiasm. This breed was developed to hunt from dawn until dusk, and that stamina remains ingrained in their genetic makeup. Without adequate physical and mental outlets, Brittanys may develop behavioral problems stemming from frustration and boredom. They excel in active households where family members enjoy outdoor activities, participating eagerly in hiking, running, swimming, and various dog sports. The breed typically maintains playfulness well into middle age, retaining puppy-like enthusiasm even after physical maturity.

Intelligence characterizes the Brittany temperament, with these dogs demonstrating quick learning ability and excellent problem-solving skills. They notice patterns in daily routines and can anticipate events based on subtle cues, sometimes seeming almost telepathic in their ability to read human intentions. This intelligence, combined with natural curiosity, means Brittanys require regular mental challenges to prevent boredom. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and novel activities help satisfy their need for mental stimulation. The breed generally exhibits good memory, retaining training lessons well and rarely requiring extensive repetition once a concept is learned.

Sensitivity is a notable breed characteristic that affects training approaches and daily interactions. Brittanys typically do not respond well to harsh corrections or rough handling, instead thriving under positive reinforcement methods that emphasize rewards and encouragement. They can become anxious or withdrawn if treated harshly, potentially developing behavioral issues if subjected to punitive training techniques. This sensitivity extends to environmental stressors, with some individuals showing wariness in chaotic or unpredictable situations. Early socialization helps build confidence, though the breed generally maintains a somewhat soft temperament throughout life.

Social nature defines much of the Brittany personality, with most individuals displaying friendly attitudes toward people and other dogs. The breed typically shows enthusiasm when meeting new people, though they may initially display slight reserve before warming up completely. Stranger aggression is not characteristic of the breed, and excessive shyness or defensive behavior would be considered atypical. With proper socialization, Brittanys usually coexist peacefully with other household pets, though their strong prey drive requires careful management around small animals like cats, rabbits, or pocket pets.

Territorial behavior and guarding instincts are minimal in most Brittanys, though they will alert to unusual sounds or activities around their homes. The breed is better suited as a watchdog than a guard dog, as they typically lack the suspicion and protectiveness desired in guarding breeds. Most Brittanys would sooner befriend an intruder than challenge them, making the breed unsuitable for serious protection work. This friendly nature is generally considered an asset rather than a liability, contributing to the breed's reputation as an excellent family companion.

Adaptability varies among individual Brittanys, with some adjusting readily to changes in routine or environment while others prefer predictability. As a group, the breed handles transitions best when their core needs for exercise, companionship, and mental engagement remain met. They can adapt to various living situations provided they receive adequate activity, though their high energy makes them better suited to homes with yards rather than small apartments. The breed's sensitivity means that major lifestyle changes should be introduced gradually when possible, with extra attention given during adjustment periods to maintain emotional security.

The Brittany thrives in active family environments where members regularly engage in outdoor activities and can dedicate significant time to exercise and companionship. This breed is ideally suited to households with older children or teenagers who can participate in vigorous play and exercise routines. With younger children, Brittanys typically display excellent patience and gentleness, though their exuberance during play requires supervision to prevent accidental knockdowns of small toddlers. The breed's playful nature makes them wonderful companions for children who enjoy outdoor games, fetch sessions, and adventures in nature.

Living space requirements for the Brittany extend beyond simple square footage to include access to areas for exercise and mental stimulation. While the breed can adapt to various housing situations, homes with securely fenced yards provide ideal environments for burning energy between structured exercise sessions. Fencing should be at least five to six feet high, as athletic Brittanys can clear lower barriers when motivated. The fence should also extend slightly below ground level or include barriers at the base, as some individuals may attempt to dig underneath when pursuing interesting scents or sights.

Urban living can work for Brittanys provided owners commit to extensive daily exercise through multiple long walks, jogging sessions, or trips to dog parks. However, suburban or rural settings generally suit the breed better, offering more space for movement and typically providing closer proximity to fields, trails, or other natural areas where the dog can safely explore. Apartment living presents challenges due to the breed's energy level and potential for developing noise-related behavioral issues when under-exercised and bored. Neighbors in close proximity may not appreciate the vocalizations of a frustrated Brittany lacking adequate outlets.

Climate tolerance in the Brittany is generally good across a wide temperature range, though extremes in either direction require management. The breed's medium-length coat provides reasonable insulation during cool weather, allowing comfortable outdoor activity in autumn and winter conditions. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing, especially with wind chill, can become uncomfortable. During hot weather, care must be taken to prevent overheating, particularly during midday heat. Early morning or evening exercise sessions are advisable in summer, with plenty of water access and shaded rest areas available during outdoor activities.

Alone time tolerance varies significantly among individual Brittanys, though as a group, the breed prefers spending most of their time with their families. Many Brittanys develop separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods, potentially leading to destructive behaviors, excessive vocalization, or house soiling. The breed is not well-suited to households where all family members work full-time outside the home unless arrangements can be made for midday breaks, dog walker services, or doggy daycare. Crate training combined with gradual alone-time conditioning helps many Brittanys learn to cope with reasonable periods of solitude, though eight-plus hour absences remain challenging for most individuals.

Multi-pet households can work well with Brittanys, particularly when the breed is raised alongside other animals from puppyhood. The breed's generally social nature facilitates positive relationships with other dogs, and many Brittanys enjoy having canine companions for play and company. Interactions with cats require careful introduction and supervision, as the breed's prey drive can trigger chasing behaviors toward fleeing felines. Cats that stand their ground and establish boundaries often coexist successfully with Brittanys, while timid or running cats may perpetually trigger the dog's hunting instincts. Small caged pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, or birds should be housed securely beyond the dog's reach, as intense interest in these animals is natural and difficult to eliminate through training alone.

Daily routine considerations for Brittany ownership include substantial time commitments for exercise, training, and companionship. Most Brittanys require at least one to two hours of vigorous exercise daily, divided across multiple sessions. This might include morning and evening walks or runs, midday play sessions, and weekend adventures in natural settings. Mental stimulation through training games, puzzle toys, or scent work should supplement physical exercise. The breed does best with predictable daily schedules that include consistent exercise times, feeding routines, and rest periods, as structure helps manage their high energy and provides security.

Training the Brittany typically proceeds smoothly due to the breed's high intelligence and strong desire to please their handlers. These dogs respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement techniques using treats, toys, and praise as motivators. Their sensitivity means harsh corrections or punitive methods often backfire, potentially causing the dog to shut down or become anxious rather than learning the desired behavior. Consistent, patient training that breaks complex tasks into smaller steps yields the best results. Most Brittanys demonstrate rapid learning once they understand what is being asked, often requiring fewer repetitions than many other breeds to master new commands.

Socialization should begin early and continue throughout the first year, exposing the Brittany puppy to various people, animals, environments, and experiences in positive, controlled settings. Well-socialized Brittanys develop into confident adults comfortable in diverse situations, while inadequate socialization can result in fearfulness or anxiety around novel stimuli. Puppy kindergarten classes provide excellent socialization opportunities while introducing basic obedience concepts in structured environments. The critical socialization window extends from approximately three to sixteen weeks of age, making early acquisition and proactive exposure essential.

Basic obedience training should be a priority, teaching fundamental commands like sit, down, stay, come, and loose-leash walking. Reliable recall is particularly crucial for Brittanys, as their hunting heritage and prey drive can lead them to pursue interesting scents or sights when off-leash. Training recall in progressively more distracting environments, using high-value rewards and practicing regularly, helps build reliability. However, even well-trained Brittanys should only be allowed off-leash in secure, fenced areas or designated off-leash zones, as the instinct to chase can occasionally override training.

Exercise requirements for the Brittany are substantial and non-negotiable for maintaining the breed's physical and mental health. These dogs need a minimum of one to two hours of vigorous exercise daily, with more active individuals benefiting from even greater amounts. Appropriate activities include long walks or jogs, hiking on trails, swimming, fetch games with balls or flying discs, and participation in dog sports like agility, flyball, or dock diving. Simply releasing a Brittany into a backyard is insufficient, as these dogs need purposeful activity and interaction rather than wandering aimlessly alone.

Mental enrichment should accompany physical exercise, as the Brittany's intelligence demands regular cognitive challenges. Scent work activities that engage the breed's natural hunting abilities provide excellent mental stimulation. Hide-and-seek games with treats or toys, puzzle feeders that require problem-solving, and training sessions teaching new tricks all contribute to mental satisfaction. Many Brittanys excel at competitive obedience, rally, or tracking, activities that combine physical movement with mental focus. Rotating toys and regularly introducing new activities prevents boredom and maintains engagement.

For owners interested in hunting with their Brittany, basic field training can begin once the puppy has mastered fundamental obedience and is physically mature enough for sustained field work. Professional trainers experienced with pointing breeds can help develop the dog's natural abilities through structured programs. Many Brittanys demonstrate instinctive pointing behavior even without formal training, though refinement of these skills requires knowledgeable guidance. The breed's versatility allows them to hunt various upland game birds including pheasants, grouse, woodcock, and quail.

Common training challenges with Brittanys often relate to managing their high energy and enthusiasm rather than unwillingness to learn. Impulsivity can make patience during training sessions difficult, particularly for young dogs. Teaching calm behaviors like settling on a mat or maintaining stays requires consistent practice. Some Brittanys show sensitivity to environmental stimuli, becoming distracted by sounds, sights, or scents during training. Working in gradually more challenging environments while maintaining high-value rewards helps build focus. Jumping up to greet people is another common issue, addressed through consistent management and teaching alternative greeting behaviors. Overall, the Brittany's trainability and eagerness to work make them relatively straightforward to train for owners committed to positive methods and patient, consistent practice.

The Brittany is generally considered a healthy and robust breed with good longevity, typically living between 12 to 15 years when provided with appropriate care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention. The breed's development as a working dog has contributed to overall soundness, as functional structure and good health were essential for dogs expected to hunt all day across challenging terrain. However, like all purebred dogs, Brittanys can be affected by certain hereditary health conditions that responsible breeders screen for and work to minimize through selective breeding practices.

Prospective Brittany owners should seek puppies from health-tested parents and breeders who can provide documentation of screening results. While health testing cannot guarantee freedom from all conditions, it significantly reduces risks and demonstrates breeder commitment to improving breed health. Many Brittany breed clubs maintain health databases tracking conditions within the breed, contributing to research efforts aimed at reducing hereditary problems. With appropriate preventive care, quality nutrition, adequate exercise, and prompt attention to health concerns, most Brittanys enjoy long, active, healthy lives as cherished family companions.

The Brittany's grooming requirements are relatively moderate compared to many sporting breeds, though regular maintenance is necessary to keep the coat healthy and prevent matting. The medium-length, flat or wavy coat requires brushing two to three times weekly under normal circumstances, with more frequent attention during seasonal shedding periods. A slicker brush or pin brush works well for removing loose hair and preventing tangles, particularly in the feathered areas on the legs, chest, and ears. Thorough brushing distributes natural oils throughout the coat, promoting shine and skin health while reducing the amount of hair shed around the house.

Bathing needs vary depending on the individual dog's activities and environment. Active Brittanys that spend substantial time outdoors may require bathing every four to six weeks, while less active individuals might need bathing only every eight to ten weeks. Over-bathing can strip natural oils from the coat and skin, potentially causing dryness and irritation. Use a high-quality dog shampoo formulated for medium-coated breeds, ensuring thorough rinsing to prevent residue buildup. Dogs that swim frequently in lakes, ponds, or pools should be rinsed with fresh water after swimming to remove contaminants, though this doesn't necessarily require full shampooing.

Trimming and thinning help maintain a neat appearance, particularly for show dogs, though pet Brittanys can remain perfectly comfortable with minimal trimming. The feathering on ears, legs, chest, and tail may be tidied with thinning shears to prevent excessive length that can collect burrs, seeds, or debris. Some owners trim the hair between foot pads to prevent ice balls from forming in winter and to reduce tracking dirt into the house. Hair around the ears may be trimmed slightly to improve air circulation and reduce infection risk. Professional grooming is not essential for this breed, as most maintenance can be easily performed at home with basic tools and techniques.

Nail care is important for maintaining proper foot structure and preventing discomfort during movement. Nails should be trimmed every two to three weeks, keeping them short enough that they don't touch the ground when the dog stands. Active Brittanys that regularly run on hard surfaces may naturally wear their nails sufficiently to require less frequent trimming. Use proper dog nail clippers or a grinding tool, taking care to avoid cutting into the quick, which contains blood vessels and nerves. Puppies should be conditioned to nail trimming from an early age to prevent resistance to the procedure as adults.

Ear cleaning deserves special attention in Brittanys due to their drop ear conformation that restricts air circulation. Weekly inspection of the ear canals helps detect problems early, with cleaning performed when dirt or wax accumulation is visible. Use veterinary-approved ear cleaning solution on a cotton ball or pad, gently wiping the accessible portions of the ear canal without inserting anything deep into the canal. Dogs that swim frequently or live in humid climates may benefit from more frequent ear cleaning and drying. Any signs of redness, odor, discharge, or discomfort warrant veterinary examination, as ear infections require prompt medical treatment.

Dental hygiene should be part of the regular grooming routine, with daily tooth brushing being ideal for preventing periodontal disease. Use enzymatic toothpaste formulated for dogs, as human toothpaste can be toxic to pets. Finger brushes or soft-bristled toothbrushes designed for dogs work well. Dental chews and toys supplement brushing but cannot replace it entirely. Professional dental cleanings performed under anesthesia at your veterinarian's office may be necessary every one to three years depending on individual needs and home care effectiveness. Maintaining oral health prevents painful dental disease and may extend lifespan by reducing bacteria that can affect major organs.

If you're looking to adopt an American Brittany, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful American Brittanys waiting for their forever homes.