The Brittany Spaniel originally was found in Breton. In a painting by Oudry in the early 1700s there is a portrait of a tail-less spaniel about the size and color of the Brittany that is pointing a partridge. The breed became popular with local poachers in the 1800s because of its agility and small size and its extraordinary ability to point and flush the birds, combined with a desire to retrieve and a willingness to work.
In modern times, the Brittany has become the most popular of the "pointing" breeds in the United States. It is extremely "birdy" and is tireless in the field. It will retrieve the birds also, which is not common with most of the pointers. The "Britt" also fits well into a household, being affectionate and friendly. He is a small dog with a love of the outdoors, being agile and compact he can fit into an urban household but needs to be well exercised. This is a dog whose first love is bird hunting and it is an independent dog.
It loves nothing better than to work with its human master on a "partnership" basis to bring in the birds. There are many hunters who swear by this dog as being one of the best bird hunting dogs they have ever had, once they have had a "Britt" they will never switch their loyalties. This is a breed that has retained a strong hunting presence in both England and the United States and it is not uncommon for "dual championships" (championships in conformation and hunting trials) to be shown in the show ring.
The Brittany is a smaller dog, standing 17 to 20 inches in height, with finer bones than many of the larger pointers. The coat should be somewhat sparse and lying flat with some waviness, although the dogs shown in the ring have a fuller coat it is not necessarily part of the standard of the breed. The coat should not be so heavy as to catch the burdocks and weeds but rather thin enough and silky enough that the dog can travel through heavy underbrush with ease.
Colors can be everything from orange and white to liver and white with orange and white being the most popular. Black is not allowed. The Brittany should be an athletic dog with the stride of the rear foot landing in the print of the front foot or beyond when moving. The tail is either short or bobbed.
In matters of temperament the Brittany is not overly aggressive and its behavior befits its function. It has never been used as a "guarding dog" but only as a "bird dog" and this is its first interest. It is friendly to humans but does not "crave" the human companionship as much as it craves the joy of the hunt. It is a willing worker and has a "soft" nature, it is a dog that is easy to train and does not need harsh discipline.
The Brittany Spaniel ? sometimes called simply the ?Brittany? - is one of the most popular birding dogs, but has also become a very popular family pet. The attractive coloration and easy temperament have brought it into many homes. Still, there are a number of bird hunters who are Brittany Spaniel enthusiasts.
The origin of the Brittany Spaniel is up for some debate. Some people believe the breed is a direct descendant of other spaniels, though others aren't sure this is true. Regardless of the bloodlines, it seems fairly obvious that the breed either originated or was brought to Brittany, France, where it gained popularity with hunters. What is clear is that the first Brittany Spaniel was officially shown in the late 1800s at a dog show in France. The beautiful dog was an immediate sensation, though it would be some four decades before the breed was recognized by dog organizations.
Though many people are adopting Brittany Spaniels as family pets, remember that these dogs were bred for stamina. They need plenty of exercise and that means that they need time outdoors. As a rule, they'll run and play by themselves, but they seem to prefer to play or hunt with their people.
Remember that these dogs were bred for hunting. They love to hunt and are almost ready to accompany their hunter on the next expedition. Some readily make the transition from indoor dogs to hunting and then readily come back inside with their ?indoor manners.?
They like cooler weather and will not let cold temperatures or even rain keep them penned indoors, given the opportunity. If possible, Brittany Spaniels will get their exercise from running and playing off leash. If you have to keep these dogs on leash, be prepared for a work out of your own!
Brittany Spaniels have a medium-length coat. It's easy to maintain with regular brushing, but you'll need to be sure nothing is tangled in it when they return from hunting trips or romps through the woods. The coat has a white base with spots that are either orange, liver or black. Combinations of colors occur occasionally. It's important to note that some canine clubs do not accept black Brittany Spaniels. Usually, ears and most of the face are the same color as the spots. Noses are always white. A black nose on the Brittany Spaniel is considered a disqualifying feature. Tails are naturally short, though some breeders dock dogs that are born with long tails, depending on the region.
As is true with many breeds that are extremely active and sensitive, the Brittany needs good socialization at an early age. Some of these dogs can become shy to the point of cowardly if they do not have that socialization or if they're treated badly. Consistency is vital to establishing good behavior.
The fact that these dogs can move from outdoors to the family hearth makes them a good choice for the hunter who plans only to keep one or two dogs. Though they may be more closely bonded to the hunter, they will also likely bond with all members of the family.
Charles Kassotis has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home Appliances, Gifts for loved ones and Pets. For more information on Brittany Spaniels and other Popular, and not-so-popular breeds of dogs, visit . Charles Kassotis's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.