Comprehensive Brittany breeding information: Premier sporting dogs originally from France, these versatile hunters excel at both pointing and retrieving upland birds. Brittanys require active owners committed to maintaining both health and critical working ability through responsible breeding programs. SPORTING DOG HERITAGE: Developed in the Brittany province of France during the 1800s, originally called "Epagneul Breton." First recognized by AKC in 1934. Smallest of the sporting spaniels yet possesses remarkable stamina for all-day hunting. Natural pointing instinct emerges as early as 8 weeks old, with soft mouth for gentle retrieves. Excel in upland bird hunting (pheasant, quail, woodcock) and versatile enough for waterfowl work. HIP DYSPLASIA STATISTICS: Hip dysplasia affects approximately 14.6% of Brittanys tested (OFA statistics). Lower rate than many sporting breeds due to compact size and athletic build. OFA or PennHIP testing MANDATORY before breeding to maintain structural soundness. Early detection through X-rays at 2 years ensures lifelong field performance. Breeding only Good or Excellent rated dogs significantly reduces incidence. EPILEPSY CONCERNS: Epilepsy occurrence estimated at 2-4% in Brittany population. Inheritance pattern complex, likely polygenic with environmental factors. Careful family history review essential - avoid breeding dogs with affected siblings or parents. Most seizures begin between 6 months to 3 years of age. Controlled epileptic dogs should never be bred to prevent passing condition. CANINE DISCOID LUPUS: Autoimmune condition affecting nose leather, seen occasionally in Brittanys. Causes loss of pigmentation and crusting on nose, worse with sun exposure. Genetic component suspected but not fully understood. Simple monitoring and sun protection manages condition effectively. Affected dogs can live normal lives but breeding decisions should consider family history. EXERCISE REQUIREMENTS: CRITICAL - Brittanys need 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise DAILY without exception. Insufficient exercise leads to destructive behaviors, anxiety, and hyperactivity. Ideal activities include hunting, field trials, agility, dock diving, or long runs. Mental stimulation through training equally important - bored Brittanys become problem dogs. Screen potential puppy buyers carefully for commitment to active lifestyle. HUNTING INSTINCTS: Natural pointing ability typically emerges between 8-16 weeks of age. Strong prey drive for birds, less interested in fur-bearing game. Field trial breeding lines show more intense drive and wider ranging style. Show lines tend to work closer to handler, making better family companions. Dual champions proving excellence in both field and conformation are ideal breeding stock. AMERICAN VS FRENCH LINES: American Brittany: 17.5-20.5 inches tall, leggier build, orange/white or liver/white ONLY, no black permitted in coat, wider ranging hunting style, recognized as separate breed from French. French Brittany (Epagneul Breton): 17-19 inches, more compact cobby build, black/white tricolor accepted, closer working style, maintained as original breed standard in Europe. Cannot be interbred for registration purposes. NATURAL BOBTAIL GENETICS: Approximately 30% of Brittanys born with naturally short tails (bob tail). Caused by dominant gene (C189G mutation in T-box gene). Breeding two natural bobtails together can produce 25% lethal homozygous puppies (absorbed in utero). Recommended breeding: natural bob x full tail = 50% natural bobs, 50% full tails, all healthy. Some countries prohibit tail docking, making natural bob gene valuable. FAMILY DOG TRAITS: Excellent with children when properly socialized from puppyhood. Gentle, affectionate nature makes wonderful therapy dogs. High energy can overwhelm very young children - best with kids 6+ years. Strong pack mentality means they thrive in multi-dog households. Separation anxiety common if left alone for long periods. Need consistent positive training - harsh methods damage sensitive temperament. FIELD TRIAL BREEDING: Field trial champions command higher stud fees and produce sought-after puppies. AKC Hunt Tests: Junior Hunter (JH), Senior Hunter (SH), Master Hunter (MH) titles prove ability. Field trials test competitive hunting skills against other dogs. NAVHDA (versatile hunting dog) tests evaluate pointing, tracking, retrieving. Breeding field-proven dogs maintains working ability for future generations. HEALTH STATISTICS: Life expectancy 12-15 years with proper care. Hip dysplasia 14.6% affected (OFA database). Epilepsy 2-4% estimated occurrence. Elbow dysplasia less than 2% incidence. Eye conditions (cataracts, PRA) under 5% combined. Hypothyroidism approximately 10% by age 7. Complement deficiency (immune disorder) very rare but tested for. Overall one of healthier sporting breeds when properly bred. Petmeetly connects ethical Brittany breeders worldwide who prioritize health testing, maintain hunting ability, and educate about exercise requirements essential for this high-energy sporting breed.