Sporting Dogs
Brittany
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Medium
Life Span
10 to 13 years
Weight
30 to 40 pounds
Height
17 inches to 20 inches tall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Sporting Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Brittany — Key Facts
About the Brittany
The Brittany is a medium sporting dog known for being deeply loving with its family and outgoing and sociable. With a highly intelligent mind, better suited to homes with outdoor space, the Brittany is manageable for most owners. Typically standing 17 inches to 20 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 30 to 40 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 10 to 13 years, making it a devoted companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Sporting Dogs group, the Brittany brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Brittany is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Brittany loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Brittany has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Brittany is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Brittany tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
Friendly and open with new people, the Brittany rarely meets a stranger it doesn't like. The Brittany barks at a moderate level — enough to alert you, not enough to disturb the neighbours. The Brittany has a strong urge to explore, so a well-fenced yard and reliable recall training are essential. A strong prey drive means the Brittany should be kept on a lead around wildlife and small pets.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 10 to 13 years, the Brittany is a medium-lived breed. The Brittany is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.
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 Brittany 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 Brittany is a good fit for a wide range of owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. A home with outdoor space is strongly preferred.
The Brittany handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. This breed prefers warmer climates and should be protected from extreme cold. The Brittany handles warm weather reasonably well with standard precautions.
In summary, the Brittany 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 Brittany home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Brittany good with kids?
The Brittany is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Brittany need?
The Brittany 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 Brittany shed a lot?
The Brittany sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing a few times per week helps manage loose fur.
Own a Brittany?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Brittany owners in Hushku.