Brittany Spaniel

The Brittany Spaniel breed standard was accepted in 1938, and before that the breed had undergone several modifications. The dog is believed to have sprung from the White and Orange Setter and have been influenced by some French breed. This is an excellent hunting companion. Both the Brittany and its ancestors were used extensively for hunting hare, partridge, woodcock, etc.

Brittany Spaniels are very affectionate and intelligent hunters. They are known for their superb retrieving abilities. Being an excellent swimmer, the Brittany Spaniel is very adept at retrieving game from water. Resistant to weather extremes and naturally tireless, they can hunt all day long. These dogs are intelligent thinkers, and they are renowned for their ability to work out their own hunting strategies. They can hunt in various types of terrain. Their moderate size makes them easily transportable, which is yet another reason why they are so popular among hunters.

Brittany Spaniels are not only superb hunters. Their docile temperament and natural eagerness to please their loved ones by acting in an obedient and intelligent way makes them great family companions. Brittany Spaniels are sweet with every member of the family they live in and are good with children. Well socialized dogs are tolerant of other pets, but many dogs tend to instinctively chase other animals; therefore, they should not be trusted with non-canine pets, especially fowl.

Brittany Spaniels are very active and energetic, so they are not intended for prolonged confinement. They are not recommended for apartment life, and they are best suited for the countryside. If you live in a city and would like to obtain this particular dog, you will need quite a large yard for your dog to exercise every day. Brittany Spaniels cannot live without proper mental stimulation, and they will only feel okay providing they enjoy an opportunity to practice hunting – their basic designation.

Brittany Spaniels are medium-sized (wither height averaging 18-20 inches) and sturdy dogs. They have short and slightly feathered coats, which come in 5 colors: Liver and White, Black and White, Orange and White, Black Tricolor, and Liver Tri-color. All these colors are accepted world wide, except for Black, which is not recognized in the USA and Canada. The dog has brown or hazel eyes; the eye color depends on the coat color. The nose should not be black. The Brittany Spaniel is a healthy dog, and he rarely suffers genetic diseases.