Bracco Italiano

AffectionateGentleEager to pleaseHigh energyReserved with strangers

The Bracco Italiano is a sturdy, affectionate pointing dog from Italy, bred to hunt birds in open country. At home he tends to be gentle, eager to please, and attached to his family, though he can be reserved with strangers at first. With children he is usually patient and sweet, and he gets along well with other dogs. He is often more content in a house with a yard than in a small apartment.

Day to day he needs a good amount of activity: daily walks, room to run, and mental work such as scent games or training. Without enough outlet he can become restless or noisy. He does best with consistent training, positive reinforcement, and plenty of time with his people rather than being left alone for long periods.

Good for: Active families with a yard and time to train

Size	large
Weight	55–88 lb
Height	22–26 in
Exercise	about 90 min a day
Shedding	moderate
Origin	Italy

Before you choose a Bracco Italiano

He needs a lot of daily exercise and companionship, so make sure your schedule can support that before choosing him.

Living with a Bracco Italiano

Exercise

Plan roughly one to two hours of activity a day, including brisk walks and off-leash running in a safe area. Scent work and fetch help meet his hunting instincts.

Grooming

His short, dense coat sheds moderately year-round and heavier in seasonal changes. Brush weekly, bathe only as needed, and check his ears regularly because they are floppy.

Health

Bracco Italiano can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, and certain eye conditions. Ask your vet about screening and what routine checkups should include for this breed.

Hip dysplasia
Ear infections
Progressive retinal atrophy

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a Bracco Italiano

Feeding, adult

3.75–5 cups a day

About 1,525 kcal, roughly 29 lb of dry food a month at 55–88 lb. Start here and adjust to the bag and your vet. Portion calculator →

What a year costs

$2,400–$4,050

Food about $1,122, plus routine vet care, parasite preventives and gear. US averages; insurance and emergencies on top.

Weather

Watch above 72°F, stop at 82°F

Coat or short walks below 32°F. Big dogs overheat before small ones: water on every warm walk, and pavement checked with the back of your hand.

LIVE · New York

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Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Do Bracco Italianos shed a lot?

They shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding in spring and fall. Weekly brushing keeps loose hair under control and helps keep the coat healthy.

Can a Bracco Italiano live in an apartment?

It is possible but not ideal. He needs substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation, so he is happier in a home with a yard and regular outings.

Do Bracco Italianos bark a lot?

They are not especially barky, but they can bark or vocalize when bored, under-exercised, or left alone for long periods. Consistent routine helps prevent this.