Brittany
BRIT-uh-nee
Bright, Fun-loving, Upbeat, Sensitive. Originally bred for pointing and retrieving game birds.
An adult Brittany weighs 35-40 lbs (male) or 30-40 lbs (female), needs 790-1,540 calories daily, and lives 12-14 yrs. This medium-sized breed balances well between manageable size and robust health. The breed's primary health watch is hip dysplasia. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Brittany needs 790 to 1,540 calories per day. An average male (38 lbs / 17.0 kg) needs around 1,200 kcal; a female (35 lbs / 15.9 kg) roughly 1,140 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Brittany. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
Brittanys are generally robust and long-lived for their size, but their high-drive athletic build puts specific joints and systems under stress. Hip screening before breeding is standard practice in the breed, and responsible owners watch for signs of joint wear as their Brittany ages. Life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.
Exercise and activity
90+ minutes of vigorous exercise daily. One of the most energetic sporting breeds. Thrives with field work, hiking, swimming, and agility. As a sporting breed, the Brittany was developed for endurance in the field. They excel at activities that engage both body and brain: retrieving, swimming, agility courses, and long hikes on varied terrain. Many sporting breeds develop behavioral problems without adequate outlet for their natural drive. Without sufficient exercise, the Brittany is likely to develop destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or anxiety. This is a breed that needs daily commitment to physical activity.
Care and traits
Brittanys have a medium-length, slightly wavy, feathered coat. Origin: France (Brittany region).
Formerly called 'Brittany Spaniel' but the 'Spaniel' was dropped because they point rather than flush. Extremely soft temperament; harsh corrections shut them down. Positive training methods only.
The Brittany responds exceptionally well to positive reinforcement training. Their eagerness to learn makes them suitable for advanced obedience, trick training, and competitive sports. Start training early and keep sessions varied to maintain their interest.
Tools for Brittany owners
Frequently asked questions
An adult Brittany in moderate activity needs 790 to 1,540 calories daily; a male averaging 38 lbs requires roughly 1,200 kcal, a female at 35 lbs about 1,140 kcal. But here's the key: active, working, or heavily exercised Brittanys can need 20-30% more calories than these baseline numbers suggest. A Brittany who runs 5 miles a day is not the same feeding equation as one who gets two leash walks. Adjust based on body condition, not just weight.
Males typically weigh 30-40 lbs (13.6-18.1 kg); females 30-40 lbs as well, usually on the lighter end. Brittanys should look lean and athletic; a visible waist from above and a clear belly tuck from the side. If your Brittany looks stocky or barrel-shaped, they're likely carrying excess weight even if the scale reads "normal." This is a breed built for speed and endurance, not bulk.
The Brittany's most notable breed-specific vulnerability is hip dysplasia. Epilepsy appears in the breed at a higher rate than average; if your Brittany has seizures, your vet may recommend long-term anticonvulsant therapy. Hypothyroidism and some eye conditions (lens luxation, progressive retinal atrophy) are also seen. The breed's overall health picture is quite good relative to many purebreds.
Budget 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily for a Brittany. At minimum, 60-90 minutes of hard exercise every single day; this means running, hiking, or retrieving, not a casual walk. Brittanys are field dogs with tireless endurance. Without adequate exercise, they typically develop behavioral problems: excessive barking, digging, chewing, and restless pacing. They're a wonderful match for active owners and a poor match for sedentary households.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026