Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Brittany (or Brittany Spaniel) is a compact, closely knit dog of medium size, and leggy in appearance. They are strong, vigorous, energetic and have quick movement. Brittany Spaniel dogs can be tricolor, black and white or liver and white. They have short drop ears that are high on the head, and have medium length hair with has splotches of color on the body and face. Sometimes they have freckles. Brittany Spaniel dogs can be born with or without tails, or with naturally docked tails. The appropriate length for the tail according to the AKC is four inches. The Brittany's first love is birds, then people. Brittany Spaniels make excellent pointing birds dog because of their keen sense of smell. They are the only spaniel that points to game, thus making them the most popular breed for pointing field trials. Their ability to point and obey is unmatched. Brittany Spaniel dogs, or Epagneul Bretons, do try to please their masters and are excellent at obedience. They are agreeable with children and other pets, but should not be rough-housed with, as they can become too excited around some children. Brittany Spaniel dogs make excellent search dogs, originally bred for searching out woodcock in the regions of France. Their temperament is quite mild and obedient. Colorful in body and spirit, the Brittany makes an awesome hunter and companion.

TEMPERAMENT

Brittany Spaniel puppies and dogs are loyal, obedient, friendly, highly intelligent, active. They are very energetic and love to do a job. Brittany Spaniel puppies and dogs are very apt to pleasing their owners, and enjoy a good run. They are good-natured, lively and trainable. They tend to be very obedient and love the outdoors. Brittany Spaniel puppies and dogs need gentle training, not harsh deterrence training.

GROOMING

Brittany Spaniel dogs don't need a lot of grooming. The Brittany Spaniel needs minimal trimming of their hocks and feet. Grooming twice a week is sufficient. Regular nail care is necessary, but minimal. Brushing their coat daily will help keep it clean.

HEALTH

Brittany Spaniel puppies and dogs are relatively healthy dogs. Possible health concerns include hip dysplasia, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), skin problems by allergies, heart defects and epilepsy. If the dog is poorly bred it may result in temperament problems, such as nervousness or anxiety.

EXERCISE

Brittany Spaniel puppies and dogs need regular exercise or they may become restless.

TRAINING

They will benefits from training with a firm but gentle hand.