The French Brittany Spaniel is a French breed of gundog originating in French province of Brittany and is named after it. Also called Le Fougueux, Epagneul Breton and French Brittany, the dog is used primarily for bird hunting. It is closely related to American Brittany with a difference in bloodline. The American Brittany has bloodlines of English Springer Spaniel. Though generally recognized as a sub-set of the same breed, the American and French Brittany Spaniels differ in lots of aspects.
The French Brittany dog is valued highly as a bird hunting, companion and show dog. The dog is calm yet energetic with a fantastic nose and uncanny bird sense. It hunts within the gun range and checks back with its partner, making it a unique and very favorite dog for foot hunters. It stands between 18 to 20 inches and weighs in accordance to the height.
The dog is medium in size, compact, energetic and solidly built without being heavy. It has a spaniel type head with a straight muzzle. Nose is large and wide with well open nostrils and comes in a colour that matches the coat. Slightly oval and obliquely set eyes are either dark in colour or have matching colour with that of coat or nose. Triangular shaped ears are set rather high and partially covered with wavy hair. The ears are flopped and quite mobile when the dog is attentive or on the move. Slightly curved neck is medium in length and well muscled. The back is short and strong with broad chest and well sprung ribs. Topline is level from short, broad and muscular loin to the beginning of the croup. Short tail is set high, carried horizontally and is mobile when the dog is excited or in action. Some dogs can born without a tail. The dog has a medium length coat that is fine, close-fitted or slightly wavy. It is shorter on the head and front limbs while heavier on hind parts. It comes in different colours including tricolour.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC but it is recognized by FCI.
