Sporting · Rank #26 Most Popular Dog Breed
Brittany

The Brittany is a French gun dog originating in the Brittany region of France, where it was developed as a versatile bird dog capable of both pointing and retrieving. The breed was first recognized in France in 1907 and became popular in North America in the mid-20th century for its keen hunting ability and tractable temperament. Brittanys are energetic, eager-to-please dogs that excel in field sports as well as obedience and agility. They are affectionate family dogs that thrive with an active lifestyle.
Ideal Weight
13.6-20.4 kg
Height
43-52 cm
Activity Level
High (Working/Athletic)
Life Expectancy
12-14 yrs
Feeding Guide
Brittanys are high-energy working dogs and need a diet with sufficient protein and fat to fuel their active lifestyle. Feed two measured meals per day and adjust portion sizes based on activity level; working dogs may need significantly more calories than sedentary pets. Avoid overfeeding in less active individuals as the breed can gain weight when under-exercised.
Water Needs
Brittanys are highly active and need ample fresh water before, during, and after exercise sessions to stay well hydrated.
Exercise Guide
Brittanys require at least 1–2 hours of vigorous daily exercise including running, hiking, swimming, or field work. They have exceptional stamina and truly thrive when given a job to do; mental stimulation through training is equally important.
Common Health Issues in Brittanys
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Hypothyroidism
- Otitis Externa (Ear Infections)
These are conditions commonly associated with the breed, not a diagnosis for your individual pet.
Brittany Calorie Calculator
Estimated Daily Calories
1313 kcal
3.8
Cups / day
450
Grams / day
Based on a generic 350 kcal/cup food. Use the full Calorie Calculator to enter your food's exact calorie density.
Brittany FAQs
How much should I feed a Brittany?
Brittanys are high-energy working dogs and need a diet with sufficient protein and fat to fuel their active lifestyle. Feed two measured meals per day and adjust portion sizes based on activity level; working dogs may need significantly more calories than sedentary pets. Avoid overfeeding in less active individuals as the breed can gain weight when under-exercised. For a personalized daily calorie and portion estimate based on your Brittany's exact weight, age, and activity level, use the calculator above or our full Calorie Calculator.
How much exercise does a Brittany need?
Brittanys generally have high exercise needs. Brittanys require at least 1–2 hours of vigorous daily exercise including running, hiking, swimming, or field work. They have exceptional stamina and truly thrive when given a job to do; mental stimulation through training is equally important.
How much water does a Brittany need?
Brittanys are highly active and need ample fresh water before, during, and after exercise sessions to stay well hydrated. As a general guideline, most dogs need roughly 50-60 ml of water per kg of body weight daily -- use our Water Intake Calculator for an estimate based on your pet's exact weight.
What health issues are common in Brittanys?
Brittanys are commonly associated with Hip Dysplasia, Epilepsy, Hypothyroidism, and Otitis Externa (Ear Infections). This is general educational information, not a diagnosis -- regular veterinary checkups are the best way to catch and manage breed-related conditions early.
How big does a Brittany get?
A fully grown Brittany typically weighs 13.6-20.4 kg (30-45 lbs) and stands about 43-52 cm (17-20 in) tall at the shoulder, with a typical life expectancy of 12-14 years.
Medical Disclaimer
This tool provides general, educational estimates and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Breed-based estimates for the Brittany are general guidance and vary by individual dog or cat. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's specific health needs before making changes to their diet, water intake, or care routine.
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From the Blog
Brittany Feeding Guide
The Brittany is a high-energy sporting dog whose calorie needs swing dramatically with activity level. This guide covers portion sizing, meal structure, and the feeding quirks that matter most for this athletic breed.
Brittany Ideal Weight Guide
The Brittany's ideal adult weight sits between 13.6 and 20.4 kg (30–45 lb), but athletic build and lean muscle make body condition scoring more revealing than the scale alone.
Brittany Growth Chart: What to Expect
As a medium-sized sporting breed, the Brittany follows a predictable growth curve, typically reaching adult size between 12 and 14 months. Here's what healthy growth looks like at each stage.
How Many Calories Should a Brittany Eat?
A Brittany's daily calorie needs depend heavily on activity level — a field-working dog may need nearly double the calories of the same dog living a quieter life. Here's how to estimate the right amount.
Brittany Puppy Guide
Raising a Brittany puppy well means feeding the right amounts at each growth stage, channelling their natural energy productively, and watching for the health issues that most commonly affect the breed.
Brittany Senior Care Guide
Brittanys are considered senior from around 8–9 years of age. Adjusting diet, exercise, and health monitoring at this stage supports a healthy, active later life for this long-lived sporting breed.
More Tools
Calorie Calculator
Full calorie calculator with custom food density.
Weight Checker
Check if your Brittany is at a healthy weight.
Body Condition Score Calculator
Assess your Brittany's body condition with a simple visual score.
Dog Age Calculator
Convert your Brittany's age into human years.
Water Intake Calculator
Estimate how much water your Brittany needs daily.
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