The Brittany is a happy, energetic pointing dog with a keen nose and a joyful, eager nature. Bred in France as a gun dog, the Brittany is smaller and livelier than other setters and pointers — a tireless worker in the field and a cheerful, affectionate companion at home.
Quick Facts
- Origin: France (Brittany).
- Group: Sporting.
- Lifespan: 12–14 years.
- Weight: 14–18 kg.
- Height: 44–52 cm at the shoulder.
- Temperament: Happy, eager, energetic, affectionate.
- Good with kids: Yes — playful and gentle with children.
- Good with other pets: Yes, usually friendly with other dogs and cats.
- Exercise needs: Very high — about 1.5 hours a day.
- Grooming: Moderate — medium coat with feathering, regular brushing.
Temperament & Personality
Brittanys are cheerful, people-loving dogs that bond closely with their family. They are eager to please, quick to learn and full of energy — a dog that is happiest when it has a job to do. They are gentle with children and friendly with other dogs. They can be sensitive and do not like being left alone for long — loneliness can lead to barking and anxiety. They are not guard dogs. A bored Brittany will invent its own entertainment, which usually means chewing, digging and escaping.
Health
Brittanys are generally healthy and long-lived. Known issues include hip dysplasia, epilepsy in some lines, eye problems including cataracts, and hypothyroidism. Buy from a breeder who health-tests the parents, and see the vet regularly.
Training
The Brittany is one of the easiest sporting breeds to train — it was bred to work closely with people and loves learning. Short, fun, reward-based sessions work best, and Brittanys excel at obedience, agility and field work. Start socialisation early so the dog is confident with strangers, children and other animals. Because they learn so fast, they also learn bad habits fast, so be consistent from day one.
Food & Nutrition
A Brittany needs a good-quality complete food in measured meals, matched to its activity — a working or very active Brittany eats more than a pet Brittany. Two meals a day suit most adults. Treats should be counted as part of the daily intake. A vet can advise the right amount for your dog’s age and weight, and fresh water should always be available.
Grooming
The Brittany’s medium-length coat with feathering on the ears, chest, legs and belly needs brushing two to three times a week to prevent tangles, and baths when dirty. The feathering tangles easily, so a quick brush every few days is ideal. Trim nails, clean ears, and check for mats behind the ears and under the legs. Brittanys shed moderately.
Exercise
A Brittany needs about 1.5 hours of activity a day: long walks, running, hiking and off-lead play, plus mental work such as scent games and training. This is not a breed for a short walk around the block — a Brittany needs to run, think and work every day. Without it, expect chewing, digging, barking and escaping.
Is the Brittany Right for You?
The Brittany suits active, outdoorsy owners who run, hike or do dog sports and can give it 1.5 hours of exercise and plenty of company every day. It is a superb family dog for an active household. It is less suited to flat living, long hours alone, or owners who want a calm, low-energy companion.
FAQs
Are Brittanys good for first-time owners?
Yes, for an active first-time owner who is ready for the exercise and training commitment. They are friendly and trainable, but their energy level surprises many new owners.
Do Brittanys shed a lot?
Moderately. Their medium coat sheds all year and needs brushing two to three times a week.
How much exercise does a Brittany need every day?
About 1.5 hours of walks, running and play, plus training to keep the mind busy.
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