Brittany or commonly known as Brittany spaniel or Brittany gun dog has a soft spot for all the fluffy pet lovers. Certainly with their playful and high energy personality what could go wrong? This french bred gundog is a medium sized agile dog. Having a soft orange and white mixture they are really beautiful dogs.
Breed overview
Breed overview- Group: Sporting
- Height: 17.5 – 20.5 inches (45 – 52 cm)
- Weight: 30 – 40 lbs (14 – 18 kg)
- Coat: Dense, either flat or wavy, with slight feathering
- Coat Color: Orange and white or liver and white; roan patterns possible
- Life Span: 12 – 14 years
- Temperament: Energetic, affectionate, intelligent
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: France
Brittany spaniel Personality & Traits
Brittany dogs are known for their versatility, combining the playful, energetic spirit of a sporting breed with the affection and loyalty of a companion. Whether YOU’re hiking in the wilderness or relaxing at home, a Brittany will want to be by YOUR side, making them ideal for active families.
Traits
- Affection Level: High
- Friendliness: Extremely friendly
- Good with Kids: Generally yes, but early socialization is key
- Exercise Requirements: Very high, around 1-2 hours a day
- Playfulness: High; loves games like fetch or agility
- Energy Level: High, requiring both mental and physical stimulation
- Ease of Training: Easy, thanks to their eagerness to please
- Intelligence: High, making training enjoyable for both YOU and the dog
- Barking Frequency: Moderate
- Shedding Amount: Moderate to high
Brittany Dog Care Guide
1. Exercise Needs
Brittanys thrive on activity and require 1-2 hours of exercise daily. Whether YOU live in the city or countryside, a Brittany will want to run, play, and explore. Try alternating between off-leash runs, long walks, and games like fetch or even agility courses to keep them satisfied.
2. Grooming Routine
While Brittanys aren’t high-maintenance, their coats need regular brushing to avoid matting, especially if they’re outdoors a lot. Brush them 2-3 times a week and check for any burrs or debris. Bathing should be occasional—about once a month or as needed.
3. Training Tips
Brittanys are eager to please, so training tends to be a positive experience. Keep sessions short, around 10-15 minutes, but frequent. They respond well to positive reinforcement, so focus on praise, treats, and affection. Socialization is crucial from a young age, particularly with other pets.
4. Common Health Issues
Like all breeds, Brittanys are prone to certain genetic conditions. It’s crucial YOU know what to look out for so YOUR dog stays healthy. Regular vet visits, ideally every 6-12 months, will help keep them in top condition. Here are the common issues:
- Hip Dysplasia: A genetic disorder affecting the hip joint, common in medium and large breeds. Studies suggest around 20% of Brittanys may develop hip dysplasia .
- Epilepsy: Seizure disorders can occur, usually between ages 2-5.
- Hypothyroidism: The thyroid gland’s underperformance, often leading to weight gain and lethargy.
- Cataracts: This eye condition can occur in Brittanys, especially as they age.
- Cleft Palate: This birth defect affects the roof of the mouth, although it’s relatively rare.
5. Diet & Nutrition for Brittany spaniel
Brittanys are active dogs, so a diet rich in protein and healthy fats is essential to support their energy levels. Look for high-quality dog food, ideally those that list meat as the first ingredient. They’ll generally require about 1.5-2 cups of kibble daily, divided into two meals. Be cautious of overfeeding—Brittanys are prone to weight gain if under-exercised.
Where to Find or Adopt a Brittany
Adopting a Brittany is a rewarding experience, and YOU have options! Rescue organizations dedicated to the breed, such as the American Brittany Rescue or National Brittany Rescue & Adoption Network, often have dogs in need of a forever home. If YOU opt for a breeder, ensure they conduct genetic testing for hereditary conditions, like hip dysplasia and epilepsy, to guarantee YOU get a healthy pup.
Brittany spaniel: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely loyal and affectionate
- Highly trainable
- Excellent for active owners or families
- Friendly with children and pets
Cons:
- High energy can be overwhelming for some
- Needs a lot of exercise
- Prone to certain genetic health issues
Owning a Brittany is like having a workout partner, a loyal friend, and a cuddle buddy all rolled into one. With proper care and attention, YOU can have a healthy, happy dog by YOUR side for years to come. Before making a decision, consider YOUR lifestyle—if YOU’re active and ready for an adventure-loving companion, Brittany could be YOUR perfect match!
