Dog breeds / Brittany
Photo: Pharaoh Hound · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Dog breed
Brittany
The Brittany is a friendly, eager, and people-focused spaniel-type gundog. Most are happy to sit beside you on the couch after a good run, and they tend to get along well with children and other dogs when socialized early. They are sensitive to tone, so firm but gentle training works far better than harshness, and they can be quite vocal when bored.
Day to day, a Brittany needs real exercise: long walks, games of fetch, or time to run in a safe, open area every day. Mental work matters as much as physical, so scent games, short training sessions, and puzzle toys help keep them settled. Without an outlet for their energy, they can become restless and destructive indoors.
Good for: Active families, outdoorsy owners, homes with a yard
| Origin | Brittany |
Living with a Brittany
Exercise
Plan at least an hour of vigorous activity daily, such as running, fetch, or a long hike. Off-leash time in a secure area is ideal for a bird dog bred to range.
Grooming
The medium-length, flat or wavy coat sheds moderately and needs brushing once or twice a week. Bathe only as needed, and check ears regularly because the floppy shape traps moisture.
Health
Brittanys can be prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and certain eye conditions. Ask your vet about screening and whether the breeder has health-tested the parents.
Questions owners ask
Do Brittanys shed a lot?
They shed moderately year-round, with heavier seasonal shedding. Weekly brushing and a rubber grooming mitt help keep loose hair under control around the house.
Can a Brittany live in an apartment?
It can work if the owner commits to daily runs and mental games. Without enough exercise, a Brittany may become restless and noisy in a small space.
How much exercise does a Brittany need?
Most need at least an hour of vigorous activity each day, plus training or scent work. Running, fetch, and hiking all suit this athletic gundog well.
Good picks for a Brittany
