Brittany
Updated May 8, 2026
Brittany
Updated May 8, 2026
Social yet sensitive, the Brittany dog is an upbeat, cheerful soul. They thrive being around people and love to be part of a calm, chill family (as long as that family is also down for lots of outdoor adventures).
Active, Mellow, Social
30–40 pounds
17–20 inches
12–14 years
Liver and White, Liver Roan, Liver White and Orange, Orange and White, Orange Roan, White and Liver, White and Orange
Oh, to be a Brittany: These easygoing pups love nothing more than the company of their people, provided that their crew is a calm and comforting bunch.
Content to stroll around with their favorite duck plushie in their mouth at home, they’re also big fans of the great outdoors and need the exercise that a hiking or camping adventure provides. It does them good to feel the wind in their fur, and it’s a great time to bond next to a crackling campfire.
Despite their laid-back soul, these pups have the energy of 1,000 dogs, so they’ll need to get good sprints in daily, too (while stopping to say hi to everyone you pass).
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Brittany Characteristics
Brittany Appearance
Medium-sized dogs with an athletic form, intelligent eyes, and an energetic gait, Brittany dogs love to run fast and are built for outdoor adventuring.
- Ears
The Brittany dog breed's floppy ears are set high on their head with feathering on the edges.
- Eyes
Brittany eyes are usually darker in color, although they may also be amber.
- Nose
Their gently tapered muzzle has a fawn, tan, brown, or deep pink nose.
- Coat Length
A Brittany's soft, dense coat is either flat or wavy, and it may have light feathering on the ears, chest, and legs.
- Coat Color
Brittany coat colors are orange and white, or liver (reddish brown) and white. They may have markings that include spots, roan (an even mix of white and another color that doesn't fade as they age), and ticking (flecks of color on a white coat).
- Tail
While it was once common to dock a Brittany tail, nowadays many of these pups have their tails intact. Many groups, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, oppose tail docking, and many countries as well as U.S. states have banned the practice.
Brittany Temperament
Once called Brittany Spaniels, Brittanys are likely to love everyone, and you’re likely to easily make friends at the dog park, thanks to your easygoing pup.
In fact, these are friendly, affectionate dogs who love to spend time with people. No fan of chaos, the Brittany prefers a home that might be busy but never overwhelming. And as long as you’re there to provide lots of exercise, stability and routine, they’ll be delighted to be part of the family.
Because the Brittany temperament is so playful and social, you might never guess they’re sensitive at heart, too. Always offer praise and affection, and they’ll remain steadfast and loyal besties.
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How to Care for a Brittany
Brittany dogs’ grooming needs are on the minimal side, but you’ll need to make sure they get a lot of exercise.
Grooming
Training
Diet
Exercise
Environment
Brittany Health
The average Brittany lifespan is 12–14 years. Here are some health issues to be aware of.
- Cataracts: Cataracts are a common eye problem, and they can be hereditary. The most common symptom is a cloudy eye. Treatment is surgery.
- Epilepsy: Brittany dogs are prone to seizures caused by epilepsy, which typically begins between 6 months and 5 years old. It’s treated with lifelong medication.
- Glaucoma: Glaucoma occurs when fluid in the eyes doesn’t drain and pressure builds. It’s painful and can result in blindness, so it’s a medical emergency. Treatment is topical medications or surgery.
- Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is when the ball and socket of the hip and thigh bones don’t properly fit. It’s an inherited condition that can be made worse if a pup is overweight. It eventually leads to arthritis and pain. More severe cases may require surgery, but the condition is often treated with medications, joint supplements, special diets, weight management, and/or physical therapy.
- Hypothyroidism: Common in this breed, hypothyroidism includes symptoms like lethargy, hair loss, skin and ear infections, and weight gain. A blood test can diagnosis it, and treatment is a daily oral medication.
Brittany History
The Brittany’s origins come from the Brittany region of France, likely in the 17th century. In fact, hunting dogs who resemble the Brittany show up in paintings and tapestries from around that time.
In the 1600s, only nobles and wealthy landowners had enough money to keep dogs specialized for different types of hunting. The average person needed all-purpose dogs who could point, flush out animals, and retrieve, and that’s where the Brittany came in.
The American Kennel Club recognized the breed, then known as the Brittany Spaniel or even the French Brittany Spaniel, in 1934.
Brittany puppies can cost thousands of dollars. If you choose this route, pick a responsible breeder.
Adoption is another option, and there are many of these pups waiting for a forever home. Check out a Brittany rescue, like the American Brittany Rescue; keep an eye out at your local shelter; or search Chewy’s database of adoptable dogs in your area.