Brittany
Description
The Brittany is a compact hunting dog originally bred in France's Brittany region during the late 1800s. It combines traits from local French Spaniels and English Setters, resulting in a versatile pointer and retriever with a keen nose and quick reflexes. Weighing between 30 and 40 pounds, this breed sports a short, double coat that often features roan, ticked, or spotted patterns in colors like liver, orange, black, and white. Brittanys thrive on activity and mental challenge, making them ideal for owners who can match their drive. They bond closely with families and usually get along well with other dogs, but their strong prey drive means they might chase small animals if not supervised. Their moderate barking suits homes that tolerate some noise but not constant alerting. This breed demands consistent training and engagement to keep their focus sharp and behavior balanced.
Grooming
The Brittany’s short double coat requires regular upkeep to stay healthy and clean. Brush twice weekly to remove loose hairs and prevent mats, increasing to daily sessions during heavy shedding in spring and fall when the undercoat ‘blows’ out. Use an undercoat rake on dense areas to reach trapped fur. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is sufficient; always dry thoroughly to avoid skin issues. Avoid shaving the coat, as it protects the dog from weather and skin damage. Coat colors vary widely, including black & white, liver roan, and orange & white, but none need special stain treatment. • Brush 2× weekly; daily during shedding • Use undercoat rake on thick spots • Bathe every 6–8 weeks, dry well • Never shave the double coat Pro tip: Schedule a professional de-shed treatment every 6 to 8 weeks to manage heavy seasonal shedding and keep your home cleaner.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Brittanys need about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to channel their natural stamina and curiosity. Morning walks can be brisk and focused on training or scent work, while evening strolls should allow more freedom to explore and sniff. This routine helps manage their strong hunting instincts and keeps them mentally sharp. Example routine: 45 minutes of brisk walking with obedience drills in the morning, then 40 minutes of off-leash exploration or scent games in a secure area after dinner. Consistent, varied walks prevent boredom and reduce the chance of destructive behavior at home.
Boarding
When boarding a Brittany, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to accommodate their medium build comfortably. They thrive with two active play sessions daily, combining physical exercise with scent or brain games to engage their sharp minds. Avoid small-animal toys to prevent accidental ingestion or chasing behaviors, and ensure fencing is secure to contain their natural drive to pursue. Staff should be aware of the breed’s moderate barking and high prey drive, managing interactions carefully with other dogs and supervising outdoor time closely. Enrichment that mimics hunting tasks helps reduce stress and keeps them content during their stay.