Introduction
The Brittany is a lively, intelligent, and affectionate dog breed originally developed for bird hunting. Known for their athleticism and friendly nature, Brittanys make excellent companions for active families. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from temperament and grooming to common questions like “Do Brittany dogs bark a lot?” and “How much do Brittany dogs cost?”
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Name | Brittany |
| Origin | France |
| Breed Group | Sporting |
| Size | Medium |
| Height | 17.5–20.5 inches (44–52 cm) |
| Weight | 30–40 pounds (13.5–18 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years |
| Coat Type | Dense, flat or wavy |
| Coat Colors | Orange & white, liver & white, roan patterns |
| Temperament | Energetic, loyal, affectionate |
| Exercise Needs | High – 1 to 2 hours daily |
| Grooming Needs | Low to moderate |
| Good with Kids | Yes |
| Good for Families | Yes |
Image Alt Tag: Brittany dog standing in a field with white and orange coat
Is a Brittany a Good Family Dog?
Absolutely! Brittanys are affectionate and friendly, making them an ideal choice for families. They’re great with children and typically get along with other pets. Their high energy and enthusiasm are best suited to households that enjoy outdoor activities and have time for daily exercise and mental stimulation.
History and Origin
The Brittany originated in the Brittany region of northwestern France, where it was bred for bird hunting as early as the 17th century. Its natural pointing and retrieving abilities made it a favorite among hunters. Recognized by the AKC in 1934, the breed’s name was shortened from “Brittany Spaniel” to “Brittany” in 1982 to reflect its unique hunting style.
Appearance and Coat
Brittanys are medium-sized with compact, athletic builds. Their coats are typically dense, flat, or slightly wavy, with feathering on the legs and chest. Most commonly, their colors are orange and white or liver and white, with spots or ticking.
Temperament and Personality
Brittanys are gentle, smart, and eager to please. They bond closely with their family and are known for their cheerful and sensitive personalities. While they’re friendly with strangers, they’re also alert, which makes them decent watchdogs. They thrive on companionship and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too often.
Are Brittany Dogs High Maintenance?
No, Brittanys are not considered high maintenance in terms of grooming or health. However, their daily exercise and mental stimulation needs are high. Key points:
- Grooming: Weekly brushing is usually enough
- Health care: Regular vet checkups; generally healthy breed
- Activity: Needs lots of running, playtime, or dog sports
- Mental stimulation: Thrive on training, games, and new experiences
Their maintenance needs are manageable if you lead an active lifestyle.
Training and Intelligence
Highly intelligent and eager to please, Brittanys are quick learners and excel in obedience and agility training. Their sensitivity means they respond best to positive reinforcement rather than harsh corrections. Start early and keep sessions engaging to avoid boredom.
Do Brittany Dogs Bark a Lot?
Brittanys don’t bark excessively, but they will bark to alert you of visitors or when they’re bored or anxious. They’re vocal during play or when under-stimulated. Proper exercise, socialization, and training from a young age can help prevent nuisance barking.
Grooming and Care
Brittanys have low to moderate grooming needs. Here’s how to care for them:
- Brushing: Once or twice per week
- Bathing: Only when needed
- Ears: Clean regularly to prevent infections
- Nails: Trim monthly
- Teeth: Brush 2–3 times weekly
Image Alt Tag: Grooming a Brittany dog outdoors with a brush
Health and Common Issues
Brittanys are generally healthy but may be prone to:
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Ear infections
- Hypothyroidism
To ensure a healthy pet, choose a responsible breeder who performs genetic testing and schedule regular veterinary care.
How Much Do Brittany Dogs Cost?
Expect to pay $800 to $1,500 for a Brittany puppy from a reputable breeder. Additional costs include:
- Vaccinations and vet care
- Spaying/neutering
- Training and supplies
- Food and grooming tools
While the upfront cost is moderate, Brittanys are fairly affordable long-term with proper care.
Exercise Needs
This is an extremely active breed. Brittanys require:
- 1 to 2 hours of exercise daily
- Access to open areas for running or agility
- Mental games and training tasks
- Time with their family—no backyard-only lifestyle
A tired Brittany is a happy Brittany!
Pros and Cons of the Brittany
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affectionate and loyal | Needs lots of daily exercise |
| Great with kids and other pets | Can suffer from separation anxiety |
| Easy to train and intelligent | Not ideal for small apartments |
| Low grooming requirements | May bark if bored or under-stimulated |
Fun Facts About Brittanys
- Brittanys are among the few gun dogs that point and retrieve.
- They are one of the most successful breeds in AKC field trials.
- Despite their size, they can outperform larger breeds in stamina.
Final Thoughts
The Brittany is a high-energy, loyal, and affectionate breed that thrives in active households. While they don’t require excessive grooming or vet care, they do demand plenty of attention, exercise, and love. If you want a happy, intelligent, and playful companion to join you on outdoor adventures, the Brittany may be your perfect match.
Internal Link:
Interested in another energetic breed? Check out our Border Collie guide.
External Link:
Learn more from the AKC’s official Brittany page.
