The
Brittany is a breed of gun dog that is primarily bred for bird
hunting. Although the dog is often referred to as a spaniel, the breed's working
characteristics are more akin to a pointer or setter.
Appearance
The Brittany should be athletic, compact, and solidly built without being
heavy. It is long-legged and elegant. Its expression should be one of
intelligence, vigour, and alertness. It should never be heavily built or
cumbersome. Its gait is elastic, long, and free.
Coat and color
The most common color pattern for Brittanys is white with orange patches.
Other accepted colors are liver and white, black and white, liver tri-color and
black tri-color. Any of these color combinations can be found in a clear or roan
pattern with some ticking. The American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club do
not recognize black as an acceptable color for the breed, but it is allowed in
all other registries worldwide. The coat is of moderate length, dense, flat, or
wavy, with slight feathering on the ears and legs. Too much feathering is
undesirable as it impedes the dog’s work in thick brush.
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Size
They are between 39 - 51 cm (17½ - 22 in) at the withers, with the UKC and
AKC preferring smaller dogs. They weigh 14 - 20 kg (30 - 45 lb). The dog is
squareish when viewed from the side, with shoulder height equaling body length
(from withers to base of tail). Show dogs have their tails docked in some
countries. The tails of working or companion dogs are rarely left long.
Types
Many breeders differentiate between "American" Brittanys and "French" style
Brittanys. Although generally recognized as sub-sets of the same breed, there
are recognizable differences between the two. The American Brittany is taller
and faster. It has been bred to cover more ground in order to hunt wide open
spaces common in the United States. The French Brittany appears more
"spaniel-like" in that it is smaller and the French Brittany generally works
more closely to the guns.
Temperament
The breed is noted for being easy to train, sensitive, and sweet-natured.
Many enthusiasts agree that it takes little more than a stern look or cross word
to chastise a Brittany. As a consequence, care must be taken during training so
as not to break the dog’s spirit. Brittanys are excellent with children but they
are an exuberant breed and if not well supervised may accidentally harm a small
child. Brittanys get along well with other dogs and enjoy working with other
dogs as a team. Many Brittany enthusiasts encourage new Brittany owners to be a
two dog family. The dogs are active and require frequent exercise and room to
run. As pets Brittanys are first-rate companion dogs but they do need plenty of
exercise. Their outgoing nature makes them poor candidates for protectors.
Health
Brittanies are generally healthy dogs, though some genetic disorders are
prevalent. They can be prone to Hip dysplasia, and Epilepsy. Their ears can be
prone to infections.
History
As the name implies, Brittanys were developed in the Brittany province of
France in the 1800s.
Training, method of work
Brittanys are happiest when hunting but make no mistake, Brittanys are
excellent companion dogs and can be wonderful family pets.
References
- Thoms, Jerry. "The French Brittany". Gun
Dog Magazine.
Wiki
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