French Brittany Dog Breed

The French Brittany is a hunting dog. They can fulfill other jobs, but they are bred to be superior, versatile hunters. They are great family companions so long as they have an active master and life. Many French Brittany breeders say that these dogs are also good for first-time dog owners.

Here are some things you should know if you are planning on adopting one of this superb dogs:

PROS

• Very playful
• Highly agile
• Easy to train
• Brilliant bird dog
• Calm in the house
• Works well in water
• Wonderful with kids
• Amazingly energetic
• Top-rated hunting dog
• Exceedingly intelligent
• Loves to be with people
• Few genetic health concerns
• High tolerance to cold weather
• Perfect for highly active people

CONS

• Not hypoallergenic
• Can become easily bored
• May be stubborn at times
• Prone to separation anxiety
• Overly exuberant as a puppy
• Moderate to high grooming needs
• Lots of daily exercise is mandatory
• May injure themselves while working
• Very sensitive to harsh training methods
• Can be very expensive to adopt and keep

Although the French Brittany is a small dog — they are the smallest of all Pointers — they have immense stamina, strength, and vitality. They are known as one of the world's best and most versatile hunting dogs, and French Brittany breeders work to keep them that way.

When they are not hunting or in the field, these dogs are great in obedience, agility, and other competitions. They have remarkable intelligence and tend to mature somewhat quickly. They will attempt to get into hunting mode before they are really ready, and while they may fumble, they will quickly learn.

As these dogs are very sensitive, it's best to learn to work with them when they are stubborn. They know what to do, but sometimes they simply don't want to do it. Raising your voice could be enough to complicate matters. They prefer to please you and will be upset if they think you are not happy with their performance.

It should not come as a surprise that they are aggressive when on the hunt; they are one of the oldest of Spaniel-type breeds. They track, point and retrieve, and they are able to endure most any terrain. Most French Brittany breeders insist on their puppies going to proven hunters, but they will consider people who have extremely active lifestyles. These dogs need a great amount of exercise. Neglecting this requirement will prompt bad behavior.

For all their strengths, French Brittanys are very sensitive dogs. They are eager to please, and if they feel that you are pressuring them, they will often resist. These dogs want to learn and do, but patience must be applied even as they tend to hurry forward. They are excitable even as they are vigorous in their duties. They love to be around people, they love to be allowed to run free in wide open spaces, and they are a bit precocious. With the right person, they can be very happy, loyal and playful family companions.

They get bored easily, however, and are best when active with a purpose — such as hunting. If you are able to tire them out by day, they will be extremely appreciative by night and happy to simply sit with you as you read, watch TV or enjoy loved ones by the fire. The French Brittany temperament is one that requires careful management while training these dogs but will provide spectacular results soon enough!

The French Brittany is a relatively healthy breed. They have been carefully managed over the centuries. Most breeders of these dogs are especially devoted, and they work hard to keep their dogs healthy. There are concerns, however, and while some are genetic, others are work-related. Proper health tests, vet check-ups and proper grooming go a long way to keeping them in good shape. Making sure they aren't too rambunctious as puppies will help prevent injuries too.

Here are the main problems that the French Brittany may experience:

• Epilepsy
• Eye problems
• Hip dysplasia
• Ear infections
• Hypothyroidism
• Familial renal disease

Kept highly active and constantly loved, these dogs have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.