Bracco Italiano Dog Breed

The Bracco Italiano is one of only 2 native Italian gundog breeds said to originate in the areas of Piedmont and Lombardy. They are excellent "air scenting", pointing and retrieving companions for hunters. Although reaching its peak in the Renaissance, when the aristocracy (including the Medicis) utilized them for flushing and net hunting, the breed has stood the test of time and transitioned well into the gundog arena. The breed is best for experienced owners of hunting breeds. Ideally, they need both a very active owner and a lot of space both indoors and out. This is not the breed for city or apartment dwellers and they do not thrive spending most of the day alone. Consider the following Bracco Italiano facts:

PROS

• Not aggressive around strangers
• Makes a good WATCHdog
• Hunting companion, pointing, retrieving
• Excellent sense of smell
• Great with kids
• Gets along with other pets
• Regal, dignified personality
• Bonds closely with the owner
• Enjoys family time
• Exercise buddy
• Low maintenance grooming

CONS

• Cannot be left alone frequently and for long periods
• Needs 2 hours outdoor time daily
• May become destructive without enough mental stimulation/interaction
• Not for apartments or small living spaces
• Not hypoallergenic
• Not super friendly/entertaining to strangers
• Difficult to train, especially for a novice owner

The Bracco Italiano is a large sized dog, weighing anywhere from 55-88 pounds and measuring 21.5-26.5 inches (at the shoulder). He/she is a powerful, athletic looking canine with plenty of lean muscle. The heads are narrow with lean cheeks and long ears. Coats are short, glossy and typically white and orange or white and chestnut; roan markings are standard and a mask is preferred. Below is some Bracco information in regards to intelligence, activity level and temperament:

A Bracco's facial expression does not lie-- they are quite intelligent, however, they can also be a handful and are recommended for experienced gundog owners. This is because they mature slowly and will stubbornly reject a command if they deem it harsh or unimportant. Mental stimulation is key to a well-behaved Bracco-- they don't need much repetition and enjoy hunting or hide and seek type games.

Members of this breed are very dignified and, although they may be aloof, will not be aggressive or shy around strangers; they make good alert dogs. With the exception of the birds they are famed for hunting, Braccos usually get along with other pets. Owners agree this breed is great with kids but, due to their large size, may pose an accidental hazard to small children.

Finally, Bracci need A LOT of exercise-- experts recommend 2 hours per day. A hunting owner or family is best or at least a very athletic, outdoorsy one. City life and apartment living is not for this breed; a vast property or large yard is necessary.

The temperament of the Bracco Italiano is said to be aristocratic, much like those that owned them at the height of their popularity. The regal, dignified expression is characteristic of the breed. Although sometimes aloof around strangers, they are not aggressive nor shy but will also not hesitate to sound an alert. Their personalities with their families are quite loving and eager to please; they will like to hunt with, play with or be around their owner as much as possible. This breed is able to spend time outside while you're going about your daily activities but prefers to sleep indoors with the owner (if possible).

Along with hunting or plenty of outdoor exercise, training is an important part of bonding with your Bracco. Perhaps this breed is better suited for experienced dog owners as they can think independently and, therefore, act quite stubborn; not to mention they are slow to mature out of the puppy stage. Harsh tones and punishment are counterproductive-- the more your Bracco feels mentally stimulated, the happier he/she will be.

The Bracco Italiano has a handful of health concerns. Choosing a responsible breeder that offers genetic testing, certifications or health guarantees is a good start, however, it's up to you to get your pet to routine veterinary appointments-- which can help detect or prevent disease in a seemingly healthy dog.

• Allergy to anesthesia is very important to note in the event your Bracco should require it
• The typical problems for most medium-large breeds, bloat and hip dysplasia, should also be watched for
• Eyelid issues are common-- entropion and ectropion result in "droopy" looking eyes
• Ear infections are fairly common
• Brucellosis is an infection of the reproductive tract that may result in infertility for both sexes
• Umbilical hernia is a bulge that shows up on the belly (it may go away during the first 6 months)
• Kidney disease and failure is a very dangerous condition on the Bracco's list