My journey with dogs has been shaped by decades of hunting, training, and breeding. I've worked with several remarkable breeds over the years, each contributing unique lessons to my understanding of what makes a great hunting dog. For 17 years, I owned and hunted with Springer Spaniels. They were tireless partners in the pheasant fields, excelling at flushing game within 30 yards. Their close-working nature and enthusiasm were a joy to watch, but as my hunting style evolved, I found myself looking for a dog with more range.
That search led me to Llewellyn Setters, known for their elegance and graceful movements in the field. They introduced me to the world of pointing dogs, and I spent several rewarding years working with them. My path took another turn ten years ago when I discovered Brittanys. It all began with Kaila, my first Brittany and the foundation of my current line. Kaila's intelligence, energy, and versatility established a lasting impression. Her daughter, Piper, carried on those traits, and now Piper's daughter, Tika, is proving to be just as exceptional. Each generation has deepened my respect and admiration for this remarkable breed.
The Brittany's roots trace back to the Brittany region of France, where the breed was developed in the mid-19th century. This picturesque region, known for its rolling countryside and abundant game, provided the perfect environment for breeding versatile hunting dogs. Historical records suggest that local Spaniels were crossed with English Setters brought to France by visiting sportsmen. The result was a compact, agile dog with a natural instinct for pointing and retrieving—a valuable asset for hunters who needed an all-purpose working companion.
Brittanys earned the nickname "the poor man's hunting dog" because they were prized by rural hunters and poachers who relied on their skills to put food on the table. Their small size, quiet demeanor, and ability to work efficiently made them ideal for hunting covertly on large estates. These qualities, born of necessity, remain hallmarks of the breed today.
The breed was first recognized in France in 1907, and Brittanys were brought to the United States in the 1920s. They quickly gained popularity for their versatility and adaptability. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Brittany in 1934. Originally called the "Brittany Spaniel," the name was shortened to "Brittany" in 1982 to better reflect their pointing style, which is more akin to a setter than a spaniel.
Brittanys are much more than outstanding bird dogs—they are exceptional companions. Their affectionate, loyal nature and eagerness to please make them wonderful family pets. They thrive on human interaction and form deep bonds with their families, often choosing one or two people as their primary focus. Brittanys are gentle with children, get along well with other dogs, and adapt well to various living situations—as long as their needs are met.
However, owning a Brittany is not for the faint of heart. This breed is bursting with energy and requires daily exercise for both body and mind. A bored Brittany will find ways to entertain itself, often by digging, chewing, or other undesirable behaviors. Regular physical activity—whether it's a long walk, a run, or time in the field—is essential.
Equally important are mental challenges. Brittanys are intelligent and thrive on tasks that engage their minds, such as training sessions, puzzle toys, or learning new commands. They are happiest when they have a job to do, and this mental stimulation is just as crucial as physical exercise.
In the field and at home, Brittanys are known for their versatility and adaptability. They are smaller than many other bird dogs, standing 17.5 to 20.5 inches tall and weighing 30 to 40 pounds. Their medium-length coat, which comes in orange and white, liver and white, or roan variations, is easy to maintain. It's worth noting that a black coat or nose is a disqualifying fault under AKC standards, as is any height outside the specified range.
What truly sets Brittanys apart is their temperament. They are independent enough to work at range in the field but maintain a strong connection with their handler. This balance of independence and loyalty is rare and makes them a joy to work with. Whether pointing game birds or retrieving them, Brittanys bring an unmatched intensity and focus to their work.
As a hunter, I've come to rely on Brittanys for their unmatched versatility. Unlike Spaniels, which work closely within 30 yards, Brittanys have the range and stamina to cover vast fields while maintaining an innate connection with their handler. Their compact size and agility allow them to easily navigate dense cover, and their keen noses make them highly efficient in locating birds.
Watching a Brittany lock into a point is an unforgettable experience. Their entire body conveys their focus and determination, and you can feel the intensity of their drive. Once the shot is taken, their retrieving skills come into play, ensuring no bird is left behind.
For me, Brittanys represent the culmination of my lifelong journey with dogs. My dogs—Kaila, Piper, and now Tika—have each brought something unique to my experience, and I've learned invaluable lessons from working with them. They've reinforced the importance of patience, consistency, and understanding in training. They've also shown me the joy of living in the moment, whether through the excitement of a successful hunt or the quiet contentment of a dog curled up at my feet after a long day.
If you're looking for a dog that can keep up with an active lifestyle, whether in the field or at home, Brittanys are hard to beat. They are loyal, intelligent, and endlessly enthusiastic—a true gift to anyone fortunate enough to share their life with one.
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