Brittany Spaniel

The Brittany Spaniel originated from the northwestern region in France called Brittany. Similar-looking dogs were seen in paintings and tapestries in the 17 century. They were developed to hunt, point and retrieve game. The Brittanys we see today are said to have been crossed with English Setters. The first recognised Brittany was a dog named Boy, which was registered in France in 1907. That same year, the first standards were made. The Brittany may have been called a spaniel family but its working characteristics are similar to pointer gundogs.

Breeders nowadays often differentiate between American Brittanys and French Brittanys, which are the same breed with the former being taller and quicker. Because of its appealing appearance, as well as its kind and loyal nature, the breed remains one of the most popular gundogs in France and Europe.

The Brittany is an elegant, lively and medium-sized dog with an intelligent and vigorous expression. Being one of the smallest gundog breeds, it stands 47 to 51 centimetres at the withers and weighs 30 to 45 pounds. It has a slightly rounded head, a tapered muzzle, strong jaws with a perfect scissor bite, and a medium-length neck. Its expressive eyes are brown to dark and its ears are triangular with slightly rounded tips. This dog is solidly built yet lightweight and moderately well-boned.

The Brittany Spaniel has an attractive dense and flat coat that is not curly or wiry. It has a lot of feathering on the ears, abdomen and back legs. According to The Kennel Club standards, the colours should be orange and white, liver and white, black and white, roan, or tricolour.

Grooming is quite easy because it does not have an undercoat, making it less bulky. It does need regular brushing to avoid matts and tangles. It may be necessary to trim overgrown feathering to keep it tidy.

As it is generally a clean dog, bathe your Brittany as needed. Always make sure your dog’s teeth are brushed twice a week, ears cleaned and dried, nails trimmed, and skin inspected for abnormalities and fleas.

Trainings are generally easy because they are people-pleasers and sensitive to correction. As long as they are not distracted with birds, their favourite prey, they will gladly participate and respond in trainings. If not socialised early, they have a tendency to be shy and aloof to people outside of the household. As an intelligent and energetic dog, it requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Each breed may have a certain pre-disposition when it comes to temperament and intelligence. However, this does not mean that your puppy will inherit all these traits. Its upbringing has a huge impact on its overall character.

• Senior and less active: up to 930 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 1,040 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 1,200 calories daily

Brittanys are moderately expensive dogs since it is a medium-sized dog with no special eating requirements. Plus, it does need to be taken to a professional groomer. Obtaining a well-bred Brittany will cost £500 to £1,000 and insuring it will be around £20 to £40 per month, depending on coverage.

Vet fees can cost as much as £1,000 on the first year for veterinary routine check-ups, neutering, vaccination, deworming, and others. This does not include major surgeries or long-term medication.