Brittany

Breed Type: Sporting
Common nicknames: Brittany Spaniel
Coat: Wavy, double
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, patient, energetic
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Color & patterns:
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Brittany - orange and roan
Brittany - orange and white
Brittany - orange and white
The Brittany Spaniel is known for their boundless energy and intelligence, making the breed a favorite among active individuals and families. Their medium-sized frames and athletic build make them the perfect companions for outdoor adventures, from hiking trails to beach escapades. These pups are natural athletes who excel in various dog sports like agility and obedience and are always ready to embark on a new quest and fill your days with excitement. The Brittany’s friendly nature makes them the life of the party wherever they go. These pups are also incredibly affectionate and love being part of a family; their loyalty knows no bounds. Get ready to experience life to the fullest with this lively and intelligent breed by your side.

Brittany characteristics

Learn about about Brittany basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Brittany facts.

Average height

18-19 inches (45.7-48.3cm)

Average weight

27-50 pounds (12.2-22.7 kg)

Average lifespan

12-14 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
Do Brittany dogs shed?

Yes, Brittany dogs shed, but they are considered moderate shedders. Brittanys have a single coat, which means they do not have an insulating undercoat like some breeds, but they still shed hair throughout the year, especially during seasonal changes. Brushing a few times a week can cut down on shedding and keep the coat healthy.

What colors do Brittanys come in?

Brittanys come in colors including orange and white, liver and white, liver roan, live white and orange, and orange roan. The orange or liver colors may be solid or roan, which is an even mixture of colored hairs and white hairs, giving the appearance of speckling or mottling.

How big do Brittany dogs get?

Brittany dogs are medium-sized. Adult Brittanys are generally 17.5 to 20.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 30 to 45 pounds.

When do Brittanys stop growing?

Brittany dogs usually stop growing by around nine to 12 months of age, but they might continue to fill out and develop muscle mass until they are around 18 months to two years old.

Where did Brittany dogs originate?

They were bred as hunting dogs, particularly for pointing and retrieving game birds.

How many types of Brittanys are there?

There is one type of recognized Brittany dog breed. However, there are two different standards for the breed: one for the American Brittany and one for the French Brittany. 

The French Brittany, also known as the Brittany Spaniel, originated in France and is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The American Brittany, recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), was developed in the United States. 

Both breeds are medium-sized with a compact, muscular build, but there are slight differences in appearance. American Brittanys tend to have a slightly larger frame and a fuller coat than French Brittanys. French Brittanys come in more colors than American Brittanys.

How long do Brittanys live?

Brittany dogs typically live between 12 to 14 years. However, like any breed, individual lifespan can vary based on factors such as genetics, overall health, diet, exercise, and quality of care.

Brittany temperament

Learn about about the Brittany temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Brittanys good with kids?

Yes, Brittanys are good with kids. They are gentle, affectionate, and patient with children and have the boisterous energy to match that of active older kids.

Pet parents should always supervise interactions between Brittanys and kids to ensure that both the dog and the child understand how to behave appropriately around each other. Teaching children how to safely interact with dogs can help prevent any potential misunderstandings or accidents.

Are Brittanys good family dogs?

Yes, Brittanys are good family dogs. They form strong bonds with their human family members and enjoy being included in family outings. They are energetic and playful, which can be a perfect match for active families that enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, running, or camping.

Additionally, Brittanys are usually good with children and other pets when properly socialized and trained. However, as with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your dog to keep both the child and dog safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

Are Brittanys easy to train?

Yes, Brittanys are easy to train. Intelligent and eager to please, they respond well to positive-reinforcement training methods, including praise, treats, and play. With consistent and patient training, Brittanys can learn a variety of commands and behaviors relatively quickly.

However, training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed, and it’s worth noting that some Brittanys have an independent streak, which can lead to stubbornness or distraction during training sessions.

Do Brittany dogs bark a lot?

No, Brittanys don’t bark a lot, though, like most dogs, they might bark due to boredom when left alone for long periods of time. You can help eliminate boredom barking with daily exercise, plenty of attention, and proper training.

Are Brittanys good with cats?

Yes, Brittanys can be good with cats, but this can depend on the individual dog’s temperament, socialization, and training, as well as the personality of the cat. Some Brittanys have a high prey drive due to their hunting instincts, which could potentially lead to chasing or aggressive behavior toward cats or other small animals.

Early exposure to cats, positive reinforcement training, and supervised interactions can help teach Brittanys appropriate behavior around cats and establish a harmonious relationship. Always introduce Brittanys to cats gradually and under controlled circumstances to ensure both the dog and the cat feel safe and comfortable.

Do Brittany dogs get along with other dogs?

Yes, Brittany dogs get along with other dogs as they generally have a friendly and sociable temperament. Of course, individual temperament can vary, and not all Brittany dogs get along with other dogs. Proper socialization from a young age helps Brittanys develop good social skills and learn how to interact appropriately with other dogs.

Are Brittany dogs smart?

Yes, Brittany dogs are smart. They are quick learners and eager to please, which makes training a breeze. Their intelligence is also reflected in their problem-solving abilities and they can make use of these excellent skills in agility and other canine sports.

Are Brittany dogs loyal?

Yes, Brittany dogs are loyal. They are affectionate and devoted dogs who thrive on companionship. Brittanys always want to be by your side, follow commands readily, and show protective instincts toward their family members.

Are Brittany dogs good for first-time pet parents?

Yes, Brittany dogs are good for first-time dog parents under the right circumstances. Brittanys are high-energy dogs who require regular exercise and mental stimulation. First-time pet parents should be prepared to provide daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for activities such as running, hiking, or participating in dog sports. 

Brittanys also need a lot of time and attention from their pet parents. Potential pet parents must consider their lifestyle and whether it aligns with the needs of a Brittany. Active individuals or families that enjoy outdoor activities and can provide a stimulating environment might be well-suited for a Brittany.

Are Brittanys good indoor dogs?

Yes, Brittanys are good indoor dogs, especially if they receive enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. Although they are active and energetic dogs, they are also known for their calm demeanor indoors, particularly when their exercise needs are met.

Brittanys are not couch potatoes, though. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for activities such as fetch or interactive toys can help keep Brittanys happy and content while living indoors.

Do Brittany dogs swim?

Yes, Brittany dogs can swim, and many enjoy water activities because their sporting and hunting background often makes them naturally inclined to water. With proper introduction and encouragement, many Brittanys can become confident swimmers. Always supervise dogs around water, however, especially if they are new to swimming or if they are swimming in unfamiliar or potentially hazardous conditions.

Are Brittanys good guard dogs?

No, Brittanys are not good guard dogs in the traditional sense. Although they might alert their pet parents to the presence of strangers by barking, Brittanys are more likely to greet visitors with enthusiasm rather than suspicion, and they don’t possess the protective instincts characteristic of breeds specifically bred for guarding purposes.

Brittany health

Learn about about the Brittany health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do Brittanys have a lot of health problems?

Brittanys are a relatively healthy dog breed, but like all purebred dogs, they are prone to certain health issues. Some of the health problems seen in Brittanys include:

  • Hip dysplasia: This is a common orthopedic condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to instability and potential arthritis.

  • Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia involves abnormal development of the elbow joint, which can lead to lameness and arthritis.

  • Epilepsy: Some Brittanys develop epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.

  • Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to various symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.

  • Skin issues: Some Brittanys develop allergies, which can manifest as skin irritation, itching, and ear infections.

  • Eye issues: Brittanys might be susceptible to certain eye conditions, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and glaucoma.

Are Brittany dogs hypoallergenic?

No, Brittany dogs are not hypoallergenic. Brittanys have a dense, medium-length coat that sheds moderately throughout the year.

Popular Brittany mixes

Breeds that are commonly mixed with Britannys include Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, and Border Collies. Characteristics of a Brittany mix can vary widely depending on the specific breeds involved, the individual dog’s genetics, and its upbringing. A few common Brittany mixes include:

  • Brittnepoo (Brittany + Poodle)

  • Labany (Brittany +  Labrador Retriever)

  • Borcolliebrit (Brittany +  Border Collie)

  • Brittany Bourbonnais (Brittany + Braque de Bourbonnais)

Brittany Mixes picture

Find Brittany puppies near you

Adopting a Brittany

Learn about acquiring a Brittany - the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.