Small MunsterlanderSame FCI section
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Brittany Spaniel
Health grade B- Shoulder height47–51 cm
- Weight13–18 kg
- Life expectancy12–14 yrs
- Puppy price1,200–2,500 €
- Energy5/5
The essentials at a glance
The Epagneul Breton is a lightning-fast, compact Vorstehhund (pointing dog)—bred for endurance hunting of upland game, where it covers vast terrain and reliably points out prey.
- Health grade B: The Brittany Spaniel (Epagneul Breton) is generally a robust breed, but it has genetic risks for hip dysplasia (HD) as well as neurological and hereditary eye diseases such as cerebellar abiotrophy, progressive retinal atrophy, and primary lens luxation (PLL).
- You are looking for a passionate working dog and want to incorporate daily dummy training, scent work, or agility—a true Vorstehhund will wither away with just simple walks.
- You are out in nature in all weather conditions and can provide him with the opportunity to burn off his immense energy in a controlled manner, either off-leash or on a long tracking lead.
- You expect a dog that stays relaxed on the paths in the woods—he was bred to systematically search the terrain for game, which requires constant management.
How the health grade is calculated
Sources for required breeding screenings. Club für Bretonische Vorstehhunde e.V.
Self-check
Would the Brittany Spaniel really fit your life?
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Similar Breeds
French SpanielSame FCI section
German Shorthaired PointerSame FCI section
Drentsche PatrijshondSame FCI section
Picardy SpanielSame FCI section
English SetterSame FCI group
Is the Brittany Spaniel right for you?
At a glance
Brittany Spaniel overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Lifespan
12–14 yrs
Shoulder height
47–51 cm
Weight
13–18 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,200 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Dense, fine, slightly wavy, with or without an undercoat
- Origin: France
Temperament
Energy
Trainability
Family fit
With kids
Daily life
Care effort
Shedding
Barking
City-friendly
Guard instinct
What matters most
Especially with a Brittany Spaniel, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Colors & coat
What colors does the Brittany Spaniel come in?
The coat colors that occur in the Brittany Spaniel — including which ones fall outside the breed standard and which carry genetic risk.
Eye colors
Brown
Amber
Coat type
Medium
Double coat
Perfect for you if:
- You lead with gentle consistency—this dog is highly sensitive and learns in a flash, but will immediately shut down if met with harshness or loud pressure.
- You want a cheerful, people-oriented companion who rests closely with his family at home, provided his mind has been sufficiently challenged outside.
Less ideal if:
- You work full-time away from home and would have to leave him alone for long periods daily—as a cooperative hunting companion, he needs close collaboration with his human.
- You are looking for a low-maintenance city dog who is content with a lap around the park and a bit of ball throwing.
The real vibes check
An Epagneul Breton has a built-in switch: at home, he is a soft, almost invisible cuddle bug—outside, he explodes into a flying nose on four paws. You aren't getting a cozy companion dog in a spaniel costume, but a true athlete who burns for intense collaboration with you.
Breed Profile
The Epagneul Breton, often referred to as the Brittany Spaniel, is a medium-sized dog characterized by its athletic appearance, elegant movements and expressive eyes. The Epagneul Breton's body is robust and well proportioned, giving it remarkable agility and endurance. Its head is elegant and shows a slight stop between the forehead and the muzzle. The ears are set at the level of the eyes, have a slight curvature and fall in soft folds. The Epagneul Breton belongs to FCI Group 7, the pointers. Known for its versatility, it is often used as a game bird hunting dog, but it also makes an excellent family dog. This breed does not differentiate between performance and show lines, meaning that all Epagneul Bretons are typically suitable for both hunting and showing.
All measurements in detail
- Height
- 47 - 50 cm (Female), 48 - 51 cm (Male)
- Weight
- 13 - 18 kg (Female), 13 - 18 kg (Male)
- Life Expectancy
- 12 - 14 yrs
- Character
- Lively, Intelligent, Affectionate
- Coat
- Dense, fine, slightly wavy, with or without an undercoat
- Coat Color
- Orange and white, black and white, liver and white, tricolor
- Price
- 1200 - 2500 €
Character & Temperament
The Epagneul Breton is a lively and intelligent dog that is characterized by its affectionate and loving nature. He is very people-oriented and often forms close bonds with his family. His intelligence and eagerness make him a quick learner who enjoys discovering new things and staying busy. He is also a playful dog who loves being outdoors and having fun. Due to its origins as a hunting dog, the Epagneul Breton has a strong hunting instinct and likes to show off its talent as a pointing dog. He is alert and attentive, making him a good watchdog, although he does not bark excessively. In terms of temperament, the Epagneul Breton is more active than calm, but he is also capable of relaxing if given enough exercise and mental stimulation. It is important to note that this dog requires a high level of exercise to be happy and well-adjusted. Walks, games, and the opportunity to roam freely in a safe area are essential for this breed. The Epagneul Breton can learn to stay alone, but as a sociable dog, he prefers the company of people or other dogs. It is advisable to gently get him used to being alone at a young age. When it comes to living with other animals, the Epagneul Breton usually shows friendly behavior, but due to its hunting instinct it may be advisable to introduce it carefully to smaller pets. Overall, the Epagneul Breton is a versatile and adaptable breed that can excel as both a hunting dog and a loving companion. With the right mix of exercise, training and affection, he is sure to be a valued member of any family.
| Watchfulness Occasionally alerts but is fundamentally open. | Low |
| Openness to Strangers Neither pushily friendly nor suspicious. | Neutral |
| Hunting or Herding Drive This drive runs deep — no amount of training eliminates it. | Very strong |
Fun Fact!
Known as the smallest of the pointers, the Epagneul Breton has a remarkable ability to adapt to different types of hunting and terrain.
What Awaits You
The Epagneul Breton is considered a passionate hunting dog that is versatile. He must be utilized and kept busy according to his type.
Housing & Care
The Epagneul Breton is an active dog and is best suited to a home with a garden where it can run around. He can also be kept in the city if he gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. The breed is generally good with children, but as with any dog, it is important that interactions are monitored. The Epagneul Breton is also friendly with other dogs and, with proper socialization, can get along with cats and other pets.
- Family Friendly
Loves family life and thrives in a group.
Family-oriented - Child Friendly
Takes boisterous and affectionate children in its stride.
Patient with children - Dog Friendly
Actively enjoys the company of other dogs.
Dog-friendly - City Friendly
Can manage in the city, but only with very active owners.
Difficult in cities
Owning a dog is a privilege, but it's also a real responsibility. Before you bring one into your life, be honest with yourself about the commitment it takes.
Training & Education
The Epagneul Breton is an intelligent and trainable dog. Because he was originally bred for hunting, he brings a high level of energy and enthusiasm. It's important to offer him a variety of activities, such as nose work, retrieving or agility. Be careful not to “over-occupy” the dog and to give him enough rest periods. Some Epagneul Bretons tend to become ball junkies, so it is important to encourage balanced playing behavior and not just focus on balls. Frustration tolerance and impulse control are important elements in training this breed. Since they have a strong hunting instinct, it is important to offer them alternatives and make sure they run free in safe areas.
Nutrition & Care
Proper nutrition is important for the Epagneul Breton to keep him healthy and active. It is advisable to choose high-quality dog food that is tailored to the needs of the breed. A balanced diet rich in proteins and healthy fats will help maintain his energy. In terms of grooming, the Epagneul Breton has a medium-length coat that is dense and slightly wavy. He has an undercoat and copes well with the climate in Germany. Regular brushing, about twice a week, is recommended to prevent tangles and remove loose hair. He sheds moderately, but shedding may increase during the coat change.
| Care Level Minimal effort — occasional brushing and bathing. | Low-maintenance |
| Exercise Needs Working-dog energy that needs burning off every single day. | High-drive |
| Shedding Hair everywhere, always — no white clothing survives. | Very heavy |
| Trainability Bred to work closely alongside humans. | Highly trainable |
Our experts are still reviewing this information. Spotted something wrong? Email us at info@honestdog.de.
Health & hereditary diseases
Health
B
Solid
Health grade
The Brittany Spaniel (Epagneul Breton) is generally a robust breed, but it has genetic risks for hip dysplasia (HD) as well as neurological and hereditary eye diseases such as cerebellar abiotrophy, progressive retinal atrophy, and primary lens luxation (PLL). The Club für Bretonische Vorstehhunde e.V. strictly mandates an HD X-ray with the limit HD A–B for breeding approval. A responsible breeder also tests the parent animals for gene mutations such as cerebellar abiotrophy, where carriers may only be mated with proven clear partners. Ask to see the official HD reports and genetic test results for the mentioned conditions before purchasing.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-assisted and editorially reviewed.
Methodology and data: HonestDog Dog Breed Health Report 2026
What matters most for this breed
Tap any item to see details.
In daily life this can mean
With joint-friendly rearing, plenty of exercise that meets their needs, and regular eye check-ups, these active dogs usually stay fit and healthy for a long time.
The breeder's role
Responsible breeders have the hips X-rayed for hip dysplasia (HD) with a limit of HD A–B and voluntarily test for cerebellar abiotrophy as well as progressive retinal atrophy.
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
Health risks for this breed
What matters most for this breed — what's common, how much it affects the dog's life, and how to protect yourself as a buyer.
12
Risks tracked
1
Club standard
10
High severity
Eyes
Most affected area
Where this breed is vulnerable
Tap a body region to see the inherited conditions linked to it.
The three most important risks
Pick a region on the map to explore other areas.
severemoderatemild
How thoroughly does the breeder test?
Tier 1 reflects the tests Club für Bretonische Vorstehhunde e.V. actually mandates. Tiers 2 and 3 show how responsible breeders go beyond.
Club standard. Club für Bretonische Vorstehhunde e.V. requires these tests for breeding approval. Ask any reputable breeder for the results.
Other breeding-approval requirements
Not health tests, but required for breeding: the club asks for these results too. They don't count toward the risks or the rating.
Wesensbeurteilung
Required by Club für Bretonische Vorstehhunde e.V.
Acceptable result: result on file
No entries in this tier.
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
Costs & where to find one
How much does a Brittany Spaniel cost?
A Brittany Spaniel costs around ~€170 per month (€90 – €310, depending on your setup). The first year adds up to roughly ~€4,670 including purchase, equipment and puppy school; across the dog's life (13 years) it comes to about ~€28,550.
With surgery cover, running costs come to about ~€160 per month — in return, your share of a major operation drops from several thousand euros to around 20 percent.
Per month
~€170
In the first year
~€4,670
Across the dog's life
~€28,550
Estimated purchase price from a breeder: €1,200 – €2,500
Estimate at a mid-range setup (suburban, dry food, 1–2 hours of daily exercise), average German prices, as of July 2026.
Calculate your personal costs1-minute self-check with your own answers
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Appearance, variants & origin
Illustrative image
Illustrative image
Illustrative image
Illustrative imageHistory
The full history
The Epagneul Breton comes from Brittany, a region in northwestern France, and is one of the oldest pointers in the world. Its history is believed to date back to the Middle Ages and is believed to be derived from hunting dogs popular in France and England at the time. Over the years, the Epagneul Breton has been developed through selective breeding, crossing it with various spaniels and setters to hone its skills as a hunting dog. The Epagneul Breton was recognized as a separate breed in the 19th century and is now known worldwide for its hunting skills and charming personality. The first breeding club for the breed was founded in France in 1907.
Original Use
The Epagneul Breton was bred to be a versatile hunting dog, particularly for bird hunting.
Origin
France
Date
1800
Owner experiences
At home, many owners find the Brittany an unusually affectionate, gentle, and mischievous housemate.Summarized from publicly shared owner experiences
At home, many owners find the Brittany an unusually affectionate, gentle, and mischievous housemate. Owner accounts repeatedly mention how much this dog seeks close physical contact with its people and how surprisingly calm and unobtrusive it is indoors, provided it has been able to burn off its energy outside. It's usually described as very friendly, patient, and playful with other dogs and children.
According to many owners, the flip side of this strong focus on people is being left alone. Brittanys clearly suffer when isolated and demand a lot of closeness, so they need early, gentle practice at spending quiet time without their people. The breed is also often underestimated because of its handy size. These are not simply companion dogs but full-fledged working dogs that get restless indoors or come up with their own ideas for keeping busy when they don't get enough exercise.
Sources:forum.perrosdecatalunya.deines-scheuer-dinger.dehundeforum.comtierwelt.ch
On training and off-leash time, owners and trainers agree: the Brittany has a strong passion for hunting that shapes every walk.Summarized from publicly shared owner experiences
On training and off-leash time, owners and trainers agree: the Brittany has a strong passion for hunting that shapes every walk. Nearly all owner accounts describe how these dogs switch "on" the moment they get outdoors, register every game trail, and sometimes take off in a flash at a sight or scent. Pointing on sight often still gives you time to step in, but reliable off-leash freedom takes months of consistent anti-hunting and long-line training.
In training, Brittanys are very sensitive. Many owners stress that any harshness or loud pressure shuts the dog down or intimidates it. Instead, they respond very well to positive reinforcement, whistle signals, and clear routines. If you win their cooperation through understanding and rewards, you'll have an eager, easily motivated partner at your side.
Sources:forum.perrosdecatalunya.detierwelt.chsabinemiddelhaufeshundundnatur.nethundeforum.comdogorama.app
Brittany owners agree that walks alone, or simply running the dog alongside a bike, come nowhere close to keeping these dogs content.Summarized from publicly shared owner experiences
Brittany owners agree that walks alone, or simply running the dog alongside a bike, come nowhere close to keeping these dogs content. Dog forums often report that the breed needs real mental work: dummy work, mantrailing, tracking or search games in the woods, and the controlled working out of scent trails are, for many owners, the key to a balanced dog.
If their minds aren't challenged, Brittanys get very creative with mischief, from opening doors to redecorating the house. Many Brittanys in Germany also come from rescue (for example from France or Spain). Adopters report that these dogs often need time at first to get used to everyday sights and sounds and to life indoors, but with the right kind of activity and patience they usually turn quickly into loyal, hardy companions with pleasingly few health problems.
Sources:forum.perrosdecatalunya.dehundeforum.comdogorama.appdogforum.de
Paraphrased from real owner reports · translated from German
FAQ & more
Is a Brittany Spaniel the right dog for me?
The Brittany Spaniel is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Brittany Spaniel live?
The average life expectancy of a Brittany Spaniel is 12-14 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Brittany Spaniel need?
Brittany Spaniel grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Brittany Spaniel good for families with children?
The Brittany Spaniel can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
What colors does the Brittany Spaniel come in?
The Brittany Spaniel comes in these colors: Black and white, Brown and white, Tricolor, Roan.
Are you a Brittany Spaniel breeder?
Showcase your kennel on HonestDog and reach families searching for a responsibly bred Brittany Spaniel.