Sporting Dogs
Bracco Italiano
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Large
Life Span
10 to 14 years
Weight
55 to 90 pounds
Height
22 to 26 inches
Breed Group
Sporting Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Bracco Italiano — Key Facts
About the Bracco Italiano
The Bracco Italiano is a large sporting dog known for being deeply loving with its family and friendly once acquainted. With a highly intelligent mind, better suited to homes with outdoor space, the Bracco Italiano is best matched with experienced owners. Typically standing 22 to 26 inches and weighing 55 to 90 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years, making it a devoted companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Sporting Dogs group, the Bracco Italiano brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Bracco Italiano is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Bracco Italiano loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Bracco Italiano has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Bracco Italiano is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Bracco Italiano tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
The Bracco Italiano warms up to strangers at a steady pace and is neither overly suspicious nor blindly trusting. This breed tends to be quiet and won't alert you to every passing noise. The Bracco Italiano has moderate wanderlust — a secure garden is always recommended. A strong prey drive means the Bracco Italiano should be kept on a lead around wildlife and small pets.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years, the Bracco Italiano is a medium-lived breed. The Bracco Italiano can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Responsible breeders will health-test their dogs — always ask for documented clearances.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. The Bracco Italiano has a moderate tendency to gain weight — monitor portion sizes and avoid too many treats. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Bracco Italiano is best suited to experienced dog owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. A home with outdoor space is strongly preferred.
Like most dogs, the Bracco Italiano is happiest when not left alone for extended periods. The Bracco Italiano manages moderate climates comfortably. The Bracco Italiano handles warm weather reasonably well with standard precautions.
In summary, the Bracco Italiano is a sociable and loving sporting dogs that fits well into a variety of households. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Bracco Italiano home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bracco Italiano good with kids?
The Bracco Italiano is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Bracco Italiano need?
The Bracco Italiano is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. Activities like fetch, hiking, and agility are ideal.
Does the Bracco Italiano shed a lot?
The Bracco Italiano sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing a few times per week helps manage loose fur.
Own a Bracco Italiano?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Bracco Italiano owners in Hushku.