American Brittany

Description

The American Brittany, often simply referred to as the Brittany, is a versatile and energetic hunting dog breed known for its exceptional fieldwork and friendly, affectionate nature. Originally bred as a pointing and retrieving gun dog, the American Brittany excels in bird hunting and is highly regarded for its stamina, agility, and keen nose.

Physically, the Brittany is a medium-sized dog with a compact and athletic build, typically weighing between 30 to 40 pounds. It has a distinctive coat that can be either wavy or flat, often in orange and white or liver and white, with a slightly rugged texture that helps it blend into outdoor environments. The breed’s ears are typically set high and have a soft, wavy texture, and its tail is often docked or left natural, depending on local customs.

Known for its high energy levels, the American Brittany thrives in active households and requires plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation. It is an enthusiastic and eager-to-please dog, making it relatively easy to train, especially when motivated by positive reinforcement and interactive activities.

The Brittany is friendly, outgoing, and enjoys being around people, including children and other pets, making it an excellent family companion. Its hunting instincts remain strong, so early socialization is important to help manage its prey drive and ensure good behavior with other animals.

This breed does well in homes where they have space to run and play, and they are best suited for active individuals or families who can provide them with the exercise and mental challenges they need. Whether as a hunting partner or a loyal family pet, the American Brittany’s enthusiasm, intelligence, and affectionate nature make it a popular choice among dog lovers.

History

The American Brittany, often referred to simply as the Brittany, has a rich history that originates in the Brittany region of France, where it was developed as a versatile hunting dog. Dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, the breed's ancestors were likely a mix of local French spaniels and English pointers brought over by British sportsmen. These dogs were admired for their agility, keen noses, and ability to work both as pointers and retrievers, making them excellent companions for bird hunters.

The Brittany first gained recognition as a distinct breed in the mid-19th century, with its reputation spreading across Europe as a skilled hunting dog, particularly for game birds like partridge and pheasant. Its compact size, stamina, and versatility allowed it to excel in a variety of terrains, from open fields to dense underbrush. The breed was first officially recognized in France in 1907 as the *Epagneul Breton*, or Brittany Spaniel, reflecting its origins as a spaniel-type working dog.

The breed made its way to the United States in the 1930s, where it quickly gained popularity among American hunters. American breeders focused on refining the Brittany’s abilities, favoring traits that enhanced its performance in upland bird hunting, including speed, agility, and pointing ability. Over time, the American Brittany began to diverge slightly from its French counterpart, particularly in appearance and style. In the U.S., the breed developed a leaner, more agile build and was often referred to simply as the “Brittany” rather than “Brittany Spaniel” to distinguish it from traditional flushing spaniels.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1934, and it has since become one of the most popular hunting dogs in the United States. While the breed continues to excel in field trials and hunting competitions, its friendly and affectionate temperament has also made it a beloved family companion. The Brittany’s intelligence, energy, and eagerness to please have cemented its reputation as both a tireless field worker and a versatile, loyal pet. Today, the American Brittany remains a testament to its French heritage while reflecting the refinements of its American evolution.

Colors

•  Black & White
•  Blue Roan
•  Liver & White
•  Liver Roan
•  Liver White & Orange
•  Orange & White
•  Orange Roan
•  Piebald
•  Roan
•  White / Black
•  White / Liver
•  White / Orange
•  White & Liver
•  White & Orange
•  White Black & Orange