Brittany Spaniel
Brittany's were bred as gun dogs/hunting dogs and they definitely have birds on the brain.
These energetic dogs are versatile family companions and hunting dogs who work more closely to hunters than other pointing breeds. If you can satisfy their high energy and exercise needs, this may be the breed for you!
The Brittany Spaniel is a happy, elegant dog who is described as an active, perfect family friend. Like all sporting breeds, the Brittany has energy to spare — he is certainly an Energizer Bunny of a dog — and that combined with his other qualities can make him a good fit for the right home.
Brittany's are remarkable in many ways. Their medium size — 30 to 40 pounds and 17 to 20 inches tall — is attractive to families and sportsmen alike. They're not too big to stay in the house or travel with you in your car if you have a passion for hunting.
However, the Brittany isn't for everyone. For one thing, his energy level might be more than many people bargain for. Brittany's have an irrepressible joy of life and a high level of enthusiasm for everything they do, whether that's playing with the kids, seeking out birds, or simply enjoying life with a good, stretched-out, no-holds-barred run. If you don't have the same energy and enthusiasm, it can be difficult to keep up with a Brittany.
All dogs like to have "work" to do, but Brittany's are especially task-oriented. You can't leave your Brittany home alone all day while you go to work and then expect him to be mellow and want to lie at your feet when you come home. Not going to happen with this dog! He will have a day's worth of energy and affection pent up, and he'll be bursting at the seams to expend both. Brittany's require an hour or more of exuberant exercise every day, which makes them unsuitable for most apartment dwellers.
Brittany's are known for being sensitive to harsh treatment. A stern look or a sharp word is often sufficient punishment when your Brittany is acting up. Train them firmly but gently, using positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards.
Because of their happy, friendly nature, Brittany's are good with children and other pets.
If you purchase your Brittany to use for hunting, you'll find that he works much like a pointer, with a smaller range. Brittany's point on game and willingly retrieve both on land and in the water. Brittany's have a natural instinct for hunting, which makes them a good choice for people who are new to the sport of hunting.
If you can keep up with the Brittany's exercise needs and need for a job, you'll find that he's a great family companion. Brittany's are good-looking dogs who attract compliments. Their grooming needs are relatively simple. They're always happy, friendly, and affectionate. They could well be the perfect dog for families who play hard, love the outdoors, and want a dog to share it with them.
Highlights
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Brittany's are high-energy dogs. They need at least an hour of intensive exercise each day. Without sufficient exercise, your Brittany may become neurotic and destructive.
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Brittany's are smart and need mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. Training for dog sports is a great way to provide this.
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Brittany's don't respond well to harsh treatment. Be gentle and consistent but firm — don't let them run the household.
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Brittany's are people-oriented and don't like to be left alone for long periods of time without something to keep them busy. If you work outside the home, you should consider getting two Brittany's to keep each other company.