A Brittany Is at Home In the Field or House

The other distinctive characteristic of the Brittany is his looks. With his ears set high and held well cocked, his generally keen and alert look, he has a very different expression from that of any other spaniel or setter. And this very expression rather denotes his character. He has plenty of fire and go, yet is neither nervous nor high strung. He is cocky, giving no quarter to dogs twice his size for grit and determination, but still retains the calm of an understanding companion.

The Brittany has a natural reserve. When it is pronounced (as it may be in certain individuals) this might sometimes be taken for timidity. But the average Brittany is not at all shy. As a rule he is just not the kind of dog that wants to climb in your lap or show a demanding affection. Rather, he will show his devotion by lying nearby, watching and awaiting your mood. He is sensitive, not very demonstrative and perhaps even a little stand-offish with strangers. His eyes are only for "his family."

One thing is sure, a temperamentally unsound Brittany is such a rarity as to be practically unknown. Probably this is so because they have long been used for the dual purpose of hunting and companion in the home so there is little of the nervous instability that often shows up over a period of time in breeds where inherent instincts are frustrated. If a Brittany is shy or nervous it can be attributed to faults in treatment or training. Like most dogs of the hunting breeds, he has a quick intelligence, good judgement and the ability to learn. He can be trained for whatever you want to make of him and he will return your affection with all his eager, tough little heart.