|
About Brittany Spaniel Dogs
Brittanys comprise a breed of medium-sized
hunting dogs which are named for the region in
northwestern France. They emerged, at the latest,
during the 17th century, which is known due to
their presence in artwork from that period. The
modern Brittany was bred in the mid-19th century,
during which the dogs were likely crossed with
English Setters. The Brittany was initially recognized
as a breed in the early 20th century.
Brittanys measure 17.5-20.5 inches
in height and should weigh 30-40 pounds. They
have solid builds that are compact without being
heavy; toplines sloping slightly down from the
apex of the shoulders to base of the tail; naturally
either short or long tails; long legs; deep chests;
medium-length necks; medium-length, rounded skulls;
short, V-shaped ears; and medium-length snouts.
Brittanys move with long strides that comprise
a free and elastic gait.
Brittanys have single-layered, medium-length
coats that are dense, flat, or wavy. Their fur
feathers slightly on their ears, legs, and tails.
Their coats may be orange and white; liver and
white; liver and white with orange markings; black
and white; orange roan; liver roan; or black roan.
Their noses are tan, fawn, dark pink, or any of
several shades of brown in color.
Brittanys are known to be good-natured
dogs with sweet temperaments. They are eager to
please, companionable, friendly, and sensitive.
Brittanys' sensitivity also, in part, makes them
easy to train, as they are very responsive to
correction. Brittanys are very loyal to their
humans. They also have high energy levels. Despite
their friendly disposition, Brittanys may be shy
if improperly socialized.
Being energetic dogs, most Brittanys
require at least one long walk daily, and many
may need even more physical activity. Because
of their energy level and athleticism, Brittanys
fare best in homes with fenced yards. Brittanys
tend to require lower maintenance with respect
to grooming; because they have single-layered
coats, they shed little, and their coats require
minimal grooming. However, because of their ears'
shape, Brittanys should have their ears cleaned
routinely. Because they are known to be great
with children, Brittanys may live with families
with children and function as good family pets.
Brittanys are prone to hip dysplasia,
a hip ailment common in many dog breeds; canine
discoid lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disease;
ear problems; and epilepsy. Despite their susceptibility
to these health complications, Brittanys are generally
healthy and resilient dogs. Their average lifespan
is about 12 years; however, about 20% of Brittanys
die of old age between at roughly 14-15 years
of age.
Spaniel Dog Gifts
|
Dog Pound
