Brittanies should range in a height of 17 inches to 20.5 inches at the withers (17.5 to 20.5 in America), with females at the lower end and males taller. A properly constructed and healthy Brittany maintains a weight between 36 and 43 lb (16 to 19 kg), depending upon height. North American field lines tend to be larger, with many dogs reaching a healthy weight of 45 to 50 lb (20 to 23 kg).
The breed was originally bred as a hunting dog and noted for being easy to train, sensitive, and sweet-natured. Brittanies are all around sound dogs, as they are excellent family pets as well as working dogs in the field. The dogs are active and require frequent exercise and room to run, and a fenced yard is essential. At least one long walk and an off-leash run are required daily to satisfy the needs of most Brittanies. The breed sometimes gets a reputation for being crazy or uncontrollable, but these problems are almost invariably due to lack of exercise and training, and are not commonly seen in well cared-for dogs. If not given sufficient exercise, love, and socialization, Brittanies can become destructive or develop compulsive or neurotic behaviors. The Brittany makes a good house pet as long as it receives daily mental and physical exercise, as well as superb socialization on a regular basis.
Brittanies can become very shy if not thoroughly socialized, and even among well-socialized dogs there is significant variation in levels of friendliness. Some are highly gregarious and actively seek companionship, others are more aloof.
With more American dual champions (dogs with titles in both conformation shows and field trials) than any other breed, the Brittany maintains strong hunting instincts in all bloodlines.
Brittanies are generally healthy and hardy dogs. Because of their floppy ears which tend to trap moisture in the ear canal, Brittanies need their ears cleaned regularly. They usually live 14-15 years. Hip dysplasia is not uncommon and epilepsy has been known to occur in the breed. American fanciers encourage owners of affected dogs to submit DNA to UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Lab for their ongoing research into the Brittany and canine health.
