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BRITTANY |
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The "spaniels" of France are really all small set-ters. The Brittany may be close to the original couching dogs of medieval Europe. Except for his short tail, his similarity to the all-purpose setters of Germany and the Netherlands, and even the British setters, can be seen. The Brittany has a higher, smaller ear, lighter head and tighter skin than what is expected in flushing spaniels. Similar hunting dogs have been known for a long time in Brittany, and the presence of the Celts in Brittany, Wales and Ireland makes the origin of the red color an interesting topic. Hunting dogs born tailless have a French precedent in the Braque du Bourbonnais. The modern history
of the Brittany dates from the beginning of this century, when Arthur
Enaud created a planned breeding program to restore this old, but waning,
French breed. The Brit has become a popular hunting dog once again in
France and, since its entry into the USA in the 1930s, has enjoyed remarkable
success in the States as well.
American fanciers
have recently dropped the word "Spaniel," changing the breed
name to Brittany. The Brit works much the same as the pointers, the setters,
and the vorstehhunds. He is an aggressive searching dog and can
be pushed out to distance if the conditions warrant. A keen nose and classic
point gives him style and dash and, after the point, he retrieves from
land or water. His small size is ideal to minimize both the cost of feeding
and the space needed to keep and transport him. The Brittany is immensely
popular as a personal gun dog in the USA and consistently ranks well in
AKC registrations. American Brittany field trials are well attended, and
breeders are justifiably proud of a long list of dual champions. The breed
also has shown an aptness for obedience competition.
Harsh training
is not necessary as they are usually mild and obedient, often quite submissive
and wanting to please. The Brit is a good choice for new hunters as the
breed is a natural worker that handles easily. He has a tail either naturally
short or docked, so that the adult length is never more than four inches.
The American and Canadian standards allow only for the orange/white or
the rarer liver/white; yet in his country of origin the black/white and
tricolors also are recognized. Even the show specimens have not fallen
into the trap of exaggerated coat, and grooming is minimal.
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