Brittany
Called a spaniel for most of its history, but it points rather than flushes, so the name was dropped. Compact, French, and one of the birdiest dogs in the field.
Overview
The Brittany is a French pointing dog, and the distinction matters: it points birds and holds, rather than flushing them the way a spaniel does. It was called the Brittany Spaniel for years and the name was changed to reflect what it actually does.
It is compact for a pointing breed at thirty to forty pounds, athletic, and it is one of the most successful field trial dogs there is.
Temperament
Bright, eager and enormously energetic. Brittanys are affectionate with their families, good with children, and friendly with other dogs.
They are sensitive and soft, and they respond badly to correction and well to enthusiasm. Some lines carry a shyness that needs early socialisation. They are also busy in a way that a quiet household finds difficult.
Care and grooming
A flat or wavy coat with light feathering that needs brushing twice a week. Moderate shedding and easy maintenance.
Hip dysplasia occurs, and so do epilepsy and hypothyroidism. Complement deficiency, a breed specific immune condition, has been identified. Twelve to fourteen years is normal.
Living and exercise
Two hours a day minimum, and they can do far more. This is a serious working gundog and it does not settle without exercise.
They excel at field work, agility and any sport involving running. A Brittany in a flat with two short walks becomes destructive, and it is a predictable outcome rather than a personality flaw.
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