Brittany Spaniel
Also known as Epagneul Breton · Bretonischer Spaniel · Spaniel Bretón
France, Continental Pointing Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 47–52 cm
- Weight
- 13–18 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Eager
- Affectionate
- Energetic
- Responsive
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Brittany Spaniel
The Brittany Spaniel, or Epagneul Breton, is a French gundog from Brittany, developed to find and point game birds and to retrieve. Despite its name it works more like a pointer than a typical spaniel. It is a medium-sized, athletic dog with a dense, flat or slightly wavy coat, often orange and white, liver and white or tricolour, and is often naturally short-tailed.
Temperament
Typically bright, eager and affectionate, with a gentle manner and strong enthusiasm for work. It tends to be sensitive and responsive, and generally does best with positive, reward-based training.
Exercise
Needs plenty of daily exercise, such as long walks, running and retrieving games. It is suited to active owners who enjoy outdoor activity.
Grooming
The medium-length coat needs brushing a couple of times a week and checking for burrs after walks.
Care & wellbeing
A very active spaniel, it can pick up grass seeds in the feathering on its ears and legs, so look through it after walks in long grass. It tends to be happiest when it has a task such as retrieving or scent games.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 15.5 kg adult- Water
- 620 ml–930 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 880 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Brittany Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A French pointing spaniel from the Brittany region, developed to find and point game birds and retrieve them. It is compact, energetic and a versatile hunting companion, and its working drive makes it a popular gundog and a lively family dog in active homes.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
Not every Brittany Spaniel is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Brittany Spaniel right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Brittany Spaniel get?
Adult Brittany Spaniels typically stand about 47–52 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 13–18 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Brittany Spaniels live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Brittany Spaniel need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Brittany Spaniel need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Brittany Spaniels easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Brittany Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Brittany Spaniels good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Brittany Spaniel live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Brittany Spaniels have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye problems. Not every Brittany Spaniel is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- France
- Type
- Continental Pointing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954