History
The name derives its originating place, it was found in paintings and tapestries in the 17th century. They were displayed in orange and white and were presented to hunt games as well as retrieve. Current Brittanys started taking shape in Pontou, a small city in Brittany region, in the mid-1800s. It is assumed that it is a result of a cross between the dogs owned by English sportsman and French hunter, the male dog (lemon and white) with the female dog (mahogany and white) was crossed. They produced two pups and one possessed hunting quality, which became the first dog of this breed, became very famous in the area, and the local people became very fond of them due to their agility, speed, and intelligence.
First written representation was provided by Reverend Davis, defining it as a small-sized breed with retrieving and great pointing skills. It soon became famous in Britain, European countries and its native land.
Brittany got recognition in the USA in the year 1931 and AKC also recognized the breed in the same year. It was earlier known as ‘Britanny Spaniel,’ and there was a demand to eliminate ‘Spaniel’ as many experienced that it does not specialize in flushing like the spaniels, but in pointing. However, in September 1982 the name was officially changed from Brittany spaniel to Brittany.
Temperament & Personality
Brittany dogs have a charming appearance with a flexible nature. They are not only perfect hunting dogs but also serve as an excellent companion due to their gentle and sweet nature. Brittany have a friendly character which is ideal to cheer up the mood. They are very loyal and lovable. But it only suits those owners who can compete with its energy level as they are always active and prefer to do something or the other task. These dogs go well with children and make their best playmate, but their interactions require supervision as Brittany are incredibly enthusiastic and can the kid down. It also goes well with other pets, only if they are brought up together. Brittany has a prey drive, and they start chasing small animals or moving objects as soon as it sees them.
Exercise
Due to the excessive energy, they are not suitable for apartment life, but for the owners who require a hunting or working partner. They can do well in homes in the countryside with a large yard where they can move freely and release excess energy. The activities will be in the form of long walks, hiking, jogging, playing different games, playtime in the yard or Dogs Park, etc. If deprived of adequate exercising, they can develop destructive behaviors like barking, etc. Owners can also train them for dog sports like dock diving and agility.
Grooming
Its coat is wavy and flat and brushing them once a week will suffice its needs. Using a hound glove and a soft brush will add extra shine to its coat. Bathe them when they are incredibly filthy. However, during their shedding season (mostly in summer months) brush them every day to remove loose furs and dirt from the coat.
Their droopy ears are prone to ear infections due to water, dirt buildup and need regular checking to prevent infections and pain. Clean their ears with Vet prescribed ear solution. They do not drool or have tear stains, but cleaning their corner of the eyes with a damp cloth will keep it clean.
Brush their teeth twice a week to avoid development tartar and oral problems. Like other breeds, they also grow nails faster which can crack if not appropriately trimmed and hinder regular activities like walking, run, etc. However, trimming them twice a month will serve the purpose.
Health Problems
They are durable with a reasonably high lifespan. But it inherits some of the common problems like epilepsy, hip dysplasia, hyperthyroidism and canine discoid lupus erythematosus. Therefore, random tests like X-ray, blood tests can minimize the risk. Additionally, owners should make random visits to the veterinarian to prevent or reduce the chances of the disease.
Training
Britanny's are intelligent and loyal, which makes them easy to train. But being hypersensitive, they require a firm trainer who will deal with them carefully while teaching. Their training includes abundant pats and treats to keep them pampered and loved.
They are excellent chaser and leash training at early ages is crucial. They have a natural hunting instinct and to minimize it, the command is useful. It will refrain the pet from chasing an object which it is not supposed to. Also, commands enhance the communication between the dog and the owner.
Socialization at an early age will make them extrovert and friendlier. Apart from family members allow it to meet new people. Owners can take them to Dog parks, busy streets where they will meet new people, pets and various situations which will not only socialize them but also polish their skills.
Feeding
Brittany dogs do well on highly nutritious and well-balanced diet with a high protein and calorie content. Owners can feed them dry dog food or homemade food, but they should check its food intake as it has a tendency of hip dysplasia and gaining weight can increase the risk.
If choosing to offer dry food, make sure to opt for the food that is made for dogs with same energy levels and size. However, 3 1/5- 4 1/8 cups of dry food every day will suffice its energy requirements. For better digestion divide meals into two halves. Owners can also opt for raw food diet. Consult a dietician or a vet for a proper diet chart.
.png)
