It is the smallest of the pointing dogs and males Brittany Spaniels ideally measure 49 to 50 cm at the withers while females measure 48 to 49 cm. The tail is set high and carried horizontally. The floppy ears are triangular and partially covered with wavy hair. Its coat is fine and flat or very slightly wavy. The dress is white and orange or white and black or white and brown. Other mixtures are possible.

The Breton spaniel is classified by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale among the continental pointers of the spaniel type. (1)

As with many breeds of dogs, the exact origins of the Breton Spaniel are unknown and the facts mingle with local accounts. For example, it is credited with origins dating back to the Celts. Writings, notably those of Gaston Phoebus as well as engravings or tapestries dating from the XNUMXth century also attest to the ancient presence of a hunting dog with a white and brown coat in the region of Brittany.

One of the most probable hypotheses, concerning the modern origins of the breed, is that which relates to woodcock hunts, organized by the English nobility and upper middle class in the Breton region in the 1850s. The hunters would then have brought with them their Gordon or English setters pointers. At the end of the hunting excursion, the dogs were then abandoned in Brittany while their owners left for the British archipelago. It is the cross between these dogs of English origin and the local dogs that would be at the origin of the Breton Spaniel that we know today. The Spaniel club and breed standard were established in 1907 and thereafter many color variations were observed before the breed stabilized on the current standard. In number of individuals, it is currently the first dog breed in France.

The Breton spaniel is particularly sociable and adapts very well in many environments. Intelligence can be read in their expression and their gaze. It may be a good idea to have them undergo obedience training so as not to be overwhelmed by their quick wits. Once well trained, these dogs excel in many disciplines, hunting of course, but also agility, flyball, tracking, etc. He is a happy and alert dog, who possesses a consenting and balanced attitude.

The Breton spaniel is a dog in good condition and, according to the UK Kennel Club’s 2014 Purebred Dog Health Survey, more than three-quarters of the animals studied showed no signs of disease.

The Breton spaniel is, however, like other pure breeds of dog, susceptible to developing hereditary diseases. Among these we can note, hip dysplasia, medial patella dislocation and cystinuria. (4-5)

Coxofemoral dysplasia

Coxofemoral dysplasia is an inherited disease in which the hip joint is malformed. This implies painful wear and tear, localized inflammation, and possibly osteoarthritis.

Affected dogs develop symptoms as soon as they grow, but it is only with age that the symptoms develop and worsen. Radiography of the hip allows diagnosis by visualizing the joint. The first symptoms are usually a limp after a period of rest and an unwillingness to exercise.

Treatment consists of reducing osteoarthritis and pain by administering anti-inflammatory drugs. Surgery or the fitting of a hip prosthesis are only considered for the most severe cases.

In the majority of cases, good medication is sufficient to improve the dog’s comfort. (4-5)

Dislocation media of the patella

Medial patella dislocation is an orthopedic condition of congenital origin. It is most common in small dogs, but among medium-sized dogs, the Breton Spaniel is most commonly affected. In affected animals, the patella, or limpet, is displaced out of the femoral fossa which normally accommodates it. Depending on the direction in which the patella escapes from its location, it is called lateral or medial. The latter is the most common and is frequently associated with ruptures of the cranial cruciate ligament (15 to 20% of cases). In 20 to 50% of cases it affects both knees.

The dog will first develop a mild and intermittent lameness, then, as the disease worsens, it will intensify and become more lasting.

The diagnosis is made mainly by palpation of the dog’s knee, but it may be necessary to take x-rays to complete the clinical picture and rule out other pathologies. Medial patella dislocation is then classified into four stages depending on the severity of the damage.

Surgery can correct the dislocation by working on bone and ligament defects. Drug treatment is usually needed after surgery to treat secondary osteoarthritis. (4-6)

La cystinuria

Cystinuria is an inherited disease that affects the metabolism of cystine. Poor absorption of this amino acid by the kidneys leads to an increase in the concentration of cystine crystals in the urine, as well as the risk of kidney stones (urolithiasis).

Symptoms usually appear around six months of age and are mainly an increase in the urge to urinate, difficulty urinating, and blood in the urine. The presence of kidney stones can also cause abdominal pain.

Formal diagnosis involves measuring the concentration of cystine in the urine by a technique called electrophoresis. An x-ray is needed to confirm the presence of kidney stones.

The pathology is not fatal in itself, but the absence of treatment can lead to serious damage to nothings and possibly the death of the animal. If the dog does not have stones, a suitable diet and food supplements to reduce the cystine concentration are sufficient. If stones are already present, surgery may be needed to remove them. (4-5)

The Breton Spaniel is a strong, fast and agile breed. She therefore requires exercise and regular activities to occupy her body and mind.