The Brittany is a friendly and good-natured dog. Just keep in mind that this breed loves to run and may drive you batty if you live in an apartment. Unless you’re prepared to spend a lot of time in the dog park or jogging with your Brittany, you should probably consider another breed.
Size:
Male: 35-55 lbs. Female: 35-50 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
With their boundless energy, the Brittany needs several long walks or jogs every day. This breed works best in active families with large, fenced-in yards, where they can run and play fetch. They also make great running partners. If not given enough exercise, the Brittany can become hyper and engage in destructive behaviors, like chewing.
Mess Factor:
The Brittany is a light shedder, which means that you won’t find clumps of dog hair on your couches. Keep in mind though: this breed loves spending time outdoors and, if you get a Brittany, there are sure to be some dirty paw prints in your future.
Barking and Volume:
Don’t worry—you won’t need earplugs. The Brittany is only an average barker
Training Requirements:
Good-natured and intelligent, this breed is easy to train. Owners need to be calm and confident and should never raise their voices. Brittanys are sensitive dogs and will become fearful if harshly chastised.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors: The Brittany is a hardy breed, but they are still prone to hip dysplasia and seizures. Ear infections are common, too. *A responsible breeder can minimize the risks of genetic disorders.
Grooming: Home grooming is adequate.
Training: A puppy class should be sufficient.
Grooming Requirements:
On a day-to-day basis, the Brittany only requires minimal grooming. A good brushing once a week will help these dogs maintain a healthy coat. You should pay special attention to the Brittany’s ears as they can become infected easily and will need regular cleaning.
Kid Compatibility:
The Brittany can be a great companion for your kids, provided that he has lots of interaction with children from puppyhood.
Longevity:
10 to 12 years.
Friendliness: Towards Animals
This breed gets along well with other pets and is usually not dog-aggressive.
Friendliness: Towards People
In general, Brittanys are affectionate dogs who love to lie curled up by their parent’s feet. However, some Brittanys are friendlier than others, and some dogs will be naturally more standoffish. If owning a sociable dog is important to you, then you need to make this clear to your breeder. Whether you have an affectionate or an aloof pooch, Brittanys need thorough socialization from an early age or else they may become shy and nervous. This breed tends to be reserved around strangers.
BE PREPARED FOR: A dog who needs so much exercise that it’ll whip you into shape, too.
