Brittany, ooh la la

So is the Brittany the dog for you? Let's find out.

First off most people call the Brittany by the name of Brittany Spaniel, however, the breed has only one name and that is Brittany. The breeds working characteristics are more similar to those of a Pointer or Setter than a Spaniel. The name Brittany comes from the Province of France (now Bretagne Region of France). Brittany images were first seen from the 17th century on paintings and tapestries. In 1850 Rev. Davies writings described hunting with small bobtailed dogs who were pointed and were excellent retrievers. Around that time it's rumored the Brittany had been bred by mating with English Setters. The breed was first recognized in 1907 in France with the registration of an orange and white male by the name of "Boy." That same year the first standards were outlined. The breed was introduced in the United States in 1931. It was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1934 and is in Group 1 -  Sporting. The breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1948 is in the Gun Dog Group.

They weigh around 30 to 40 pounds. Males and females both measure at 17 1/2 to 20 1/2 inches from the shoulder. Brittany's are typically quite athletic, compact, energetic, and solidly built without being heavy. Some are born with naturally short tails and others have long tails. The long tail is normally docked to a length of 1 to 4 inches. Not all countries allow for docking. The UKC does not penalized dogs with a full tail. Colors are orange and white or liver and white.

The Brittany is sweet-natured, friendly and eager to please. They are excellent family pets as well as working dogs in the field. They are great with kids. They do not need a heavy hand in training; they may quit if discipline is too stern. This breed is ideal for an active owner. It can have a reputation for being crazy or uncontrollable with the problem mostly likely due to lack of exercise and training This is not common in well cared for dogs. Socialization is very important and must start at a young age as the Brittany can become very shy.

If this is the breed for you, recognize that your Brittany will need exercise, a job or a purpose. Jobs to consider are track trail or hunting.