Brittany Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

Hip dysplasia affects approximately 14.6% of Brittanys according to OFA statistics, which is lower than many sporting breeds due to their compact size. Prevention requires mandatory OFA or PennHIP testing before breeding - only breed dogs with Good or Excellent ratings. Both parents should be tested at 2 years minimum. Early detection through X-rays ensures lifelong field performance. Their athletic build naturally protects joints, but responsible breeding selection is crucial for maintaining structural soundness.

Brittanys require 1-2 hours of VIGOROUS exercise daily without exception. This isn't casual walking - they need running, hunting, swimming, agility, or field work. Insufficient exercise leads to destructive behaviors, anxiety, and hyperactivity. Mental stimulation through training is equally important. Ideal activities include bird hunting, field trials, dock diving, or long runs. Screen potential puppy buyers carefully - Brittanys are NOT suitable for sedentary lifestyles. Their high energy is a blessing for active families but overwhelming for couch potatoes.

Epilepsy occurs in approximately 2-4% of Brittanys, with complex inheritance patterns likely involving multiple genes plus environmental factors. Most seizures begin between 6 months to 3 years of age. Breeding protocol: Never breed affected dogs, even if controlled with medication. Carefully review family history - avoid breeding dogs with affected siblings or parents. If a dog produces epileptic offspring, remove from breeding program. Early onset seizures (before 1 year) suggest stronger genetic component. Document all neurological issues in pedigrees for informed breeding decisions.

These are now considered separate breeds with distinct standards. American Brittany: 17.5-20.5 inches tall, leggier build, ONLY orange/white or liver/white coats (no black permitted), wider ranging hunting style, recognized as separate breed by AKC. French Brittany (Epagneul Breton): 17-19 inches, more compact cobby build, black/white tricolor accepted, closer working style to handler, maintained as original breed in Europe. They cannot be interbred for registration purposes. Americans excel in wide-open hunting, while French work better in thick cover.

Canine discoid lupus is an autoimmune condition occasionally seen in Brittanys that affects the nose leather, causing loss of pigmentation and crusting, especially with sun exposure. While the genetic component isn't fully understood, family history matters. Management is simple: sun protection (dog-safe sunscreen), avoiding peak UV hours, and monitoring for changes. Affected dogs live normal, happy lives with minor care adjustments. For breeding decisions, consider family history - if multiple relatives show symptoms, reconsider breeding. It's manageable but worth noting in health screening.

Approximately 30% of Brittanys are born with naturally short tails due to a dominant gene (C189G mutation in T-box gene). Breeding genetics: Natural bob x full tail = 50% natural bobs, 50% full tails (all healthy). CAUTION: Breeding two natural bobtails together produces 25% lethal homozygous puppies (absorbed in utero), 50% natural bobs, 25% full tails. This reduces litter size by 25%. Best practice is always breeding natural bob to full tail. With tail docking banned in many countries, the natural bob gene has become increasingly valuable for maintaining breed appearance.

Brittanys are excellent with children when properly socialized from puppyhood. Their gentle, affectionate nature makes them wonderful family dogs, but their high energy can overwhelm very young children - best with kids 6+ years who can participate in activities. They have strong pack mentality and thrive in multi-dog households. With cats, early socialization is key as their bird hunting instinct is strong. They're sensitive dogs needing positive training - harsh methods damage their temperament. Separation anxiety is common if left alone for long periods. Perfect for active families who include dogs in daily adventures.

Preserving hunting instincts maintains the breed's purpose and creates more balanced, fulfilled dogs. Natural pointing emerges at 8-16 weeks - a joy to witness! Field trial breeding lines show intense drive and wider ranging, while show lines work closer (better for families). Testing through AKC Hunt Tests (JH, SH, MH titles) or field trials proves ability. NAVHDA tests evaluate versatile skills. Dual champions excelling in both field and show are ideal breeding stock. Dogs with strong hunting instincts are happier, more focused, and easier to train. Even pet Brittanys benefit from maintained working ability through better focus and drive satisfaction.

MANDATORY: Hip X-rays (OFA or PennHIP) at 2+ years - only breed Good/Excellent ratings (14.6% dysplasia rate). Annual CERF/OFA eye exams to screen for cataracts, PRA. STRONGLY RECOMMENDED: Thyroid panel annually (10% develop hypothyroidism by age 7), Elbow X-rays (under 2% affected but worth checking), Primary lens luxation genetic test, Complement deficiency test (rare but available). CRITICAL: Evaluate hunting/field ability to maintain breed purpose. Complete health history review for epilepsy (2-4% occurrence). Testing creates healthier generations - your diligence matters!

Field trial lines are bred for intense hunting drive, wider ranging in field (may work 200+ yards out), higher energy requiring 2+ hours exercise daily, leaner build with longer legs, more independent thinking, and stronger prey drive. Show lines work closer to handler (under 100 yards), have slightly calmer energy (still need 1-2 hours exercise), more compact build meeting conformation standards, easier for average families to manage, and better suited for suburban living. Dual purpose lines combining both are ideal - proving dogs can excel in field trials AND conformation shows. Choose based on buyer's lifestyle and hunting goals.