Brittany Spaniel
Summary
The Epagneul Breton, originating from the French region of Brittany, is the smallest of the pointing dogs in Group 7 and the only "spaniel" that points instead of flushing game. It is an exceptionally versatile breed — pointing, flushing, and retrieving — and is the most popular hunting dog in France. Compact and agile, it is distinguished by its short tail (natural or docked) and the balanced temperament that makes it equally suited for hunting and domestic life.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 48–51 cm
- Height (female)
- 47–50 cm
- Weight (male)
- 14–18 kg
- Weight (female)
- 13–17 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Dense but relatively fine, flat or slightly wavy; soft feathering on the front and rear legs
- Common Colors
- Orange and white, liver and white, black and white, tricolor, roan in any of these combinations
Temperament & Personality
The Epagneul Breton is a cheerful, energetic, affectionate, and easy-to-train dog, with a sensitivity that requires positive reinforcement methods. It is an excellent family dog, good with children and other animals when socialized early. Its intelligence and eagerness to please make it one of the most accessible hunting breeds for first-time owners. In the field, it is tireless and passionate about work; at home, it is calm and affectionate.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Cataracts
- Ear infections
- Epilepsy
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Recommended Health Tests
- Epilepsy test
- Eye examination
- Orthopedic evaluation
- Thyroid evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
