Bracco Italiano

The Bracco Italiano is an ancient breed from Italy. It is believed to have been around since the 4th century as seen in photos in literature and paintings. There are claims that it is a Segugio Italiano and Asiatic Mastiff cross. Some others say it is a descendant of the St. Hubert Hound. The two initial variations of the breed were (1) the Piedmontese Pointer that originated in Piedmont, and (2) the Lombard Pointer from Lombardy.

As records show, the Bracco was utilised by Italian aristocrats and hunters during the 17th century to hunt feathered game. It almost became extinct between the 19th and 20th century but allegedly saved by Italian breeder Ferdinando Delor de Ferrabouc. Breed standards have been set in 1949 in Lombardy. It first came to England in 1989 and it remains a rare breed in the UK.

A large, powerful hunting dog with a noble appearance, the Bracco Italiano stands 55 to 67 centimetres at the withers and weighs 55 to 88 pounds. This muscular and strong-looking dog has a distinctive head, which is long, angular and narrow at the zygomatic arches. Giving this breed a somewhat “Roman nose” are its straight, deep a slightly arched muzzles. It has a strong jaw with a perfect scissor bite. It’s fairly large dark ochre or brown and oval eyes have a soft expression. Its floppy ears are set level to the corner of its eyes. It has a nice symmetrical facial mask that matches its coat colour.

The Bracco’s coat is short, dense and glossy. According to The Kennel Club, the standard colours are white, white with orange, white with amber or chestnut markings, white with speckles, roan with solid markings, and chestnut that has a warm and metallic sheen.

It has low grooming needs as it only requires regular brushing and occasional bathing. Frequent brushing means a shinier coat.

Aside from the dog’s coat, owners should also make sure that other aspects of grooming are taken care of. Braccos are prone to ear infections so make sure to keep them clean and dry. Teeth must be brushed twice a week, nails regularly trimmed and skin inspected for red spots and parasites.

The Bracco is an intelligent breed that is also a people pleaser. This combination may sound perfect when it comes to dog training but for this breed, think again. It has a tendency to test you and decides whether your command is worth following. Obedience training should start early to avoid developing a dominant nature that can be risky in large dogs. While it is important to be firm, it is worth noting that it is a sensitive dog so harsh methods don’t typically work. When you establish your alpha role and treat them with kindness, Braccos would become obedient.

Dog breeds have general characteristics but this does not mean that your Bracco will develop them all. Heredity, environment, socialisation, and training contribute to its overall character. Diet is also believed to influence a dog’s level of intelligence.

• Senior and less active: up to 1,400 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 1,600 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 1,800 calories daily

The annual amount to raise a Bracco Italiano can range from £1,300 to £1,900 a year. However, costs can differ significantly if your dog requires major surgeries or long-term treatments.  Factors such as size, age and health also contribute to the costs. Premium dog food and treats can go as high as £60 a month. You also have to buy necessary equipment and supplies, which will initially cost around £200.

You also have to factor in important routine vet visits for annual booster vaccination and flea/worming treatments. These can easily add up to around £1,200 a year. As a safety net for unexpected vet expenses, you will have to purchase pet insurance (£50 a month for basic and £100 for lifetime). Price for Bracco Italiano start at £1,000 and £1,200.