Brittany Spaniel

Despite the "spaniel" label, the Brittany (Épagneul Breton) works as a pointer rather than a flushing spaniel, ranging the field to locate and indicate game. It is a compact, athletic French pointing gundog and one of the most agile and eager of the versatile gundog breeds.

The Brittany is a compact, medium-sized gundog, standing around 47–52 cm at the shoulder and weighing roughly 14–18 kg. Its build is athletic and balanced, making it one of the more agile pointing breeds.

Although both are popular gundogs, they work differently: the Brittany is a pointer that locates and indicates game, while the English Springer is a flushing spaniel. The Brittany is generally a little smaller and lighter. Both are energetic, affectionate and trainable, so the right choice depends on your activities and the working style you prefer.

A great deal. This is a very high-energy breed, comfortably needing one to two hours or more of vigorous daily activity including free running and scent or gundog work. Crucially, physical exercise alone is rarely enough; its quick, work-oriented mind also needs a job, whether gundog training, agility or scent games.

Yes, in an active home. Brittanys are affectionate, sociable and eager to please, forming close bonds and generally proving good with children and other dogs when well socialised. They can be sensitive, however, and are prone to separation-related distress, so they suit families who can offer plenty of exercise and company.

Brittanys carry a medium-length, slightly wavy coat that is typically white with patches of colour, most often orange-and-white or liver/brown-and-white, sometimes with roan or tricolour markings. The coat is relatively easy to maintain, needing brushing once or twice a week.

The Brittany is generally a healthy, sound breed, benefiting from a reasonable body of breeder health awareness as a popular working gundog. Responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia and pay attention to ear and eye health. Ask for hip scores and any relevant eye testing, and keep up routine ear cleaning and weight management.

A typical lifespan is around 12–14 years. As an active gundog it can be prone to exercise-related injuries in the field, so sensible conditioning, a healthy weight and routine preventive care all help support a long, active life.

Good with children. As a general guide, Brittany Spaniels tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.

As a healthy adult, a typical Brittany Spaniel needs 2 hours or more, plus a job to do of exercise a day (120–180 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.

Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.

Manageable for committed beginners. Brittany Spaniels are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.

Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Needs plenty of space. A Brittany Spaniel really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.