Dogs

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN France

MOST SUITED AS Field sports dog and family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is 48 - 50cm (18 1/2 - 19 1/2in) for dogs and 47 - 49cm (18 1/2 - 19 1/2in) for bitches. They weigh about 15kg (33lb).

COAT
The coat consists of lightly or strongly waved fine hairs. The breed colours are white and orange, white and chestnut, white and black, three-coloured, or a roan of one of these colours. The most common colour is white with reddish brown.

CARE REQUIRED
This breed does not need much attention to its coat. An occasional brushing, particularly in the areas where the coat is thickest, is sufficient to keep it in good condition. Check the ear passages regularly to ensure they are clean.

CHARACTER
These are lively, intelligent dogs that love to retrieve but which can have a mind of their own, they rarely bark, are gentle-natured, affectionate, and obedient. These outstanding and untiring field sports dogs are highly thought of by French hunters.

TRAINING
Epagneul Bretons are easily trained because they are intelligent, learn quickly, and are obedient. Bear in mind that they are sensitive to hard words and any undercurrents of unrest in the home.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
A well-trained Epagneul Breton is very loving with children, and gets on well with dogs and other animals. They will bark if they sense danger.

EXERCISE
Although this breed fits into the role of family pet extremely well, it remains heart and soul a field sports dog. It will not be content with three little circuits of the neighbourhood each day. Consider working the dog in the field which will satisfy both its need to work and its exercise requirements. Alternative activities could be agility skills trials or fly-ball. Swimming and retrieving are among this breed's most enjoyed pastimes.