"Workmanlike, compact, lively, squarely built"
"Energetic, intelligent, hunt-point-retriever"	"Affectionate and eager to please"
As its name suggests, this breed originates from Brittany in France. However, its ancestors are probably the Oysel Dogs described by Gaston Febus in the Middle Ages. It is certainly one of the oldest French breeds of pointing dogs. In the 1800s landed gentry from England would come to France to shoot partridge and snipe, bringing, their setters and pointers with them. These dogs would often be left with French landowners from one season to the next, and these dogs interbred with the native spaniels, to produce the Brittany. By about 1900, the breed as we know it today had developed. Although the Brittany is one of the most popular dogs in France and has a large following in the USA, it has been slower to gain popularity in Britain. The first Brittanies were imported into 1982 since when numbers have grown slowly but steadily. The breed gained Challenge Certificate status at Crufts 1997. The Brittany is first and foremost a hunting dog noted for its character, stamina, speed and courage. They are very affectionate, love praise, and want to be everyone's friend, mixing well with other dogs, but can also be extremely stubborn. A Brittany loves to be worked - they need an occupation (almost any occupation) or they will readily turn into hooligans. They have competed successfully in Working Trials, Obedience and Agility. The smallest of the Hunt Point Retrieve breeds, the Brittany should have substance without heaviness. He should be elegant, lively, and with an intelligent expression. His untrimmed coat is easy to care for as when dry the dirt falls off it and he needs little preparation for the show ring. The tail is customarily docked, although some have a natural bob tail and others are born tailless.