Description

When it comes to elegant, powerful hunting dogs in the medium build range, there is nothing quite like a Brittany dog. These gorgeous animals are built for life in the woods from their medium weight and high energy to their amazing stamina. These dogs are compact for their height and have a graceful long leg appearance. Many people are surprised by their appearance, thinking a hunting dog would need to be heavier. Nothing could be further from the truth in terms of size. These dogs can keep up with any other hunting dog breed out there.

Even the skin on these gorgeous animals is adapted to life spent hunting. On the face and the rest of the body, these dogs have loose, moveable skin. The advantage to this feature is that twigs, thorns, and sticks can’t stick in their skin as easily and create injuries. They are almost imperious to that type of injury in the field.

An avid hunter wouldn’t be too worried about the smaller stature of the Brittany dog compared to other breeds, especially when you consider that these dogs are much simpler to move around from place to place.

Coat Description

The Brittany dog has a dense coat with wavy texture. It is considered to be a single coated dog. Most people refer to the coat’s texture as a cross between soft and wiry.

For the record black Brittany dogs are never accepted by the various kennels. However dogs with white, orange, and liver coloring or any pattern containing those colors is considered to be acceptable.

History

The beginnings of the Brittany breed of dog is steeped in mystery. Some experts think the dog is a cross between a white and an orange setter. Regardless this dog is very popular today as hunting and wonderful family dog especially in Britain and France.

Temperament

Just because the Brittany dog is a hunting dog, don’t think it doesn’t have a charming disposition. These dogs are incredibly intelligent and very sweet to their owners. They are also known for being very obedient when properly trained. The Brittany dogs have one goal in life and that is to please their owner or family. This is a great dog to have in house full of kids as they are very patient and easy to take care of. The Brittany dog is known for having a consistently pleasant nature. A new owner won’t have to worry about moodiness or other problems.

It is important to note that the Brittany dogs need to be socialized at a young age. If they are not taught how to be around other dogs and people early they are prone to developing issues like overwhelming fearfulness and anxiety.

Another thing to keep in mind, if a person or family isn’t going to able to give their pet a lot of attention, deciding on another type of dog really would be best.

Health Problems

Like most species of hunting dogs, the Brittany dogs are pretty hardy as long as they are well cared for. Even the healthiest dogs may have problems with their eyes like glaucoma. Joint problems like spinal paralysis affecting the hind quarters and hip dysplasia are possible as well. Overall though these dogs are very healthy additions to any home or kennel.

Grooming

Taking care of the Brittany dog is pretty simple. They don’t need a bunch of maintenance. You will need to wash their coats about once a month and twice weekly brushings are highly recommended. If you are planning to use your dog for show, it may be necessary to have the vet or a professional take care of the in depth grooming for you.

Exercise

You may have noticed that the Brittany dog is described as very energetic. As you can imagine that means that these dogs have to be kept entertained. This dog is the perfect companion for just about any outdoor activity you want to engage in. biking, hiking, and swimming are ideal for these energy filled dogs. Of course the dog doesn’t actually bike, but he or she will be able to keep up with you if you do.

Training

As mentioned, these dogs have to be socialized early. Otherwise you are running the risk of creating a dog that won’t be able to function hunting or doing anything else. Using love, gentleness, and consistency should be enough to train these brilliant dogs to do what is necessary.

You will have to detail your training to the tasks you expect the dog to perform.