Consider These 11 Factors Before Adopting a Brittany Dog
Thinking about adding a Brittany to your life? You’ve probably fallen for those soulful eyes and that endless wagging tail already.
Here’s the honest truth: Brittanys can be absolutely incredible companions — but they are not the right dog for everyone.
These energetic, intelligent bird dogs bring a lot of joy. They also bring a lot of demands.
So before you bring one home, let’s walk through what it’s really like to live with a Brittany — and the honest questions you need to answer first.
Quick poll
What’s your main reason for considering a Brittany?
High Energy, High Needs
Let’s get this out of the way first, because it matters more than anything else.
Brittanys are not couch potatoes. Full stop.
These dogs were bred to hunt in the field all day long, and that stamina hasn’t gone anywhere in the living room.
1+ hr
of real daily exercise a Brittany needs — running, hiking, fetch or agility
A quick stroll around the block simply won’t cut it. Think running, hiking, structured fetch, or agility work.
But here’s the part people miss: it’s not just physical activity they crave.
Brittanys are sharp, and they get bored fast. A bored Brittany tends to become a destructive or anxious Brittany.
So where does all that energy fit? Let’s talk living space.
Apartment Living? Only If You’re Committed
Despite their medium size, Brittanys do best in homes with a big, securely fenced yard where they can safely zoom around.
That said, they can live in an apartment. There’s just one condition.
You have to commit to lots of outdoor time, several times a day, in every kind of weather.
In practice, this means rain, wind, and cold won’t excuse you from the schedule. Your Brittany doesn’t care that it’s drizzling.
Good news for busy owners: the grooming is refreshingly simple.
Grooming: Low-Maintenance, But Don’t Neglect It
Here’s some welcome relief. Brittanys don’t need fancy haircuts or frequent baths.
But they do shed — especially in spring and fall.
A weekly brushing usually keeps things under control. During heavy shedding season, daily brushing helps keep the hair tumbleweeds at bay.
- Brush the coat weekly (daily during heavy shedding)
- Clean those floppy ears weekly to prevent moisture buildup
- Brush teeth daily if you can manage it
- Trim nails regularly
- Skip ear care — those floppy ears trap moisture and infections
Those floppy, hairy ears are lovely to look at, but they trap moisture. That makes weekly ear checks non-negotiable.
Now for the part that makes or breaks the relationship: training.
Training and Socialization: Start Early
One of the best things about Brittanys? They genuinely love to please.
They’re quick learners and respond beautifully to positive reinforcement — treats, praise, and play.
But there’s a catch: they’re also independent thinkers.
That means consistency and patience matter as much as talent. Keep sessions short, upbeat, and reward-based.
Start socializing early and often — new people, new dogs, new places, new sounds. The window while they’re young is precious.
“A well-socialized Brittany is a joy in almost any setting. An under-socialized one can become anxious and reactive.”
So what are they actually like to live with day to day?
Temperament: Sweet, Snuggly, and Spirited
Brittanys are the kind of dogs that want to be part of everything you do.
They’re affectionate, deeply people-oriented, and great with kids.
Picture this: a morning sprinting through the woods, then an afternoon curled up on the couch for a cuddle. That’s a typical Brittany day.
Active families
ExcellentThrives with kids and an outdoorsy household.
Singles & couples
GreatPerfect adventure buddy if you keep them busy.
Cats & small pets
CautionPrey drive means careful intros and supervision.
Homebodies
Poor fitA sedentary lifestyle leaves them frustrated.
They’re not typically aggressive, but they can be protective and a little wary of strangers if under-socialized.
Most importantly, this is a dog that wants you. Companionship isn’t optional for a Brittany — it’s the whole point.
Let’s look at the health picture so there are no surprises.
Health and Lifespan
Brittanys are generally a hardy, athletic breed.
12–14 yrs
typical Brittany lifespan with good care
With the right care, they often stay active well into their senior years. But like every breed, there are health concerns worth watching for.
Hip dysplasia
A joint condition worth screening for in the parents.
Ear infections
Those floppy, hairy ears trap moisture — clean them weekly.
Allergies
Can be environmental or food-related; watch for itching.
Epilepsy
Seizure disorders can occur in the breed.
Hypothyroidism
A treatable hormone condition to keep on your radar.
Certain cancers
Including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma.
Now, the question most people underestimate: time.
Time Commitment: Don’t Underestimate It
Owning a Brittany is a long-term commitment — and not just in years.
It’s a daily commitment of time and energy, too.
Between exercise, training, grooming, and general care, a Brittany will take up a real chunk of your day.
Pros
A Brittany is right for you if…
- You love the outdoors and stay active
- You have time for daily exercise and training
- You want a devoted, people-loving companion
- You enjoy dog sports or hiking adventures
Cons
Maybe reconsider if…
- You want a low-maintenance, easygoing pet
- You are away from home for long hours
- You prefer a calm, sedentary lifestyle
- You cannot commit to daily exercise
If you’re looking for an easygoing, low-effort dog, this probably isn’t your breed.
But if you’re active, outdoorsy, and ready for a furry sidekick on every adventure? It might be a perfect match.
If you’re still in, here’s how to find a healthy puppy.
Choosing a Breeder
Please don’t skip this step. It matters more than almost anything else on this list.
A responsible breeder tests their dogs for common genetic conditions and stays transparent about their practices.
Signs of a responsible Brittany breeder
- They screen for genetic health issuesAsk to see health clearances for hips, thyroid, and eyes.
- They let you meet the puppies and the parentsSeeing the temperament of the parents tells you a lot.
- They never pressure you into a decisionA good breeder wants the right home, not a fast sale.
- They offer referencesAsk for vet references or talk to other Brittany owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
They can be — but only if you're active and ready to commit real time to exercise and training. Their eagerness to please makes them trainable, but their high energy can overwhelm an unprepared owner.
Plan for at least an hour of vigorous activity every day, plus mental stimulation. Running, hiking, fetch, and dog sports are ideal. A short walk alone won't satisfy them.
Yes. They're affectionate, playful, and generally great with kids, especially in active families. As always, supervise interactions with very young children.
It depends on socialization. Their hunting-bred prey drive can be strong, so early exposure and careful, gradual introductions are essential.
It's possible, but demanding. You'll need to commit to multiple outdoor sessions a day in all weather. A home with a securely fenced yard suits them far better.
They're moderate shedders, with heavier shedding in spring and fall. Weekly brushing usually keeps it manageable, and daily brushing helps during shedding season.
Expect high energy well into adolescence. Many start settling somewhat around two to three years old, but they remain an active breed for life.
The daily time commitment. Between exercise, training, and companionship needs, they simply aren't a low-maintenance dog — and boredom leads to problem behaviors.
Judith Aleguen is a freelance writer, editor, and shelter volunteer who fosters rescue cats and dogs. She turns hands-on experience into practical, easy-to-read pet care guides.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.