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History
This hearty hunting dog probably originated in Brittany, a province in France. The Brittany Spaniel was first shown in that country in 1896. A versatile hunter, the Brittany can point as well as retrieve. An excellent worker on upland game, quail, woodcock, pheasant, grouse, and chukar, the Brittany Spaniel is one of the most popular pointing breeds for bird hunting.
Description
The Brittany Spaniel is a hearty, vigorous, medium sized, closely knit, leggy dog with a fairly short, lightly feathered single coat. He is very agile and active. He comes in orange-and-white, or liver-and-white in either a clear or roan pattern, with some ticking. Tri-color (liver-orange and white) is allowed, but not preferred. Black is a disqualification. The eyes are amber or hazel, depending on coat color. The nose may not be black. The high-set ears are rather short in a triangular shape, slightly fringed and hanging close to the head. The tail is either naturally short or docked to less than 10,2 cm.
Talents
Hunting, retrieving, and pointing.
Personality
Gentle, a very active and enthusiastic hunter. Affectionate. Smart and very trainable for hunting. Independant free-thinker. Good natured and easy to care for. Some are nervous or hyperactive. Socialize extensively as a pup. Happy and alert.
Behavior
Children: Good only when raised with children from puppyhood.
Friendliness: Reserved with strangers.
Trainability: Slightly difficult to train.
Independence: Fairly independent.
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: Generally good with other pets.
Combativeness: Not generally dog-aggressive.
Noise: Average barker.
Notes
The Brittany Spaniel likes to roam. Some skilled trimming of the coat is needed for proper grooming. Generally a low-maintenance dog. Brittanys need extensive exercise. Best for an active outdoors person or hunter.
Grooming
Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: Some trimming or stripping (little skill required).
Coat: Feathered coat.
Shedding: Light shedder.
Docking: The tail is customarily docked.
Exercise: Vigorous daily exercise needed.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Very active indoors.
Apartments: Not recommended for apartments.
Outdoor Space: Best with acreage.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
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