Brittany Bourbonnais

He is not recognized by the F.C.I.

Origin
France -> U.S.A.
Translation
Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Brittany Bourbonnais

The Brittany Bourbonnais is a hybrid between the quiet Epagneul Breton and the Braque du Bourbonnais. Not much is known about this hybrid, and it has no detailed history outside its parent breeds. Both parents are medium-sized, athletic hunting companions with similar structures, although the Braque du Bourbonnais is a larger breed. Both parent breeds are Pointers and Retrievers and share a common trait, a natural tail or tailless look. Today, the Brittany Bourbonnais is considered a companion and country dog, but is not as popular a choice in America as it is in Europe.

History of the Brittany Bourbonnais

The Brittany Bourbonnais is a Pointers hybrid developed in France. Its history is unknown at this time, and the hybrid is a modern dog and not as popular in the USA as in France and the UK. The two parent breeds are similar in disposition, appearance and abilities and were most likely crossed to produce a stronger pointer for hunting.
        

A little of the Brittany Spaniel

        
The Brittany Spaniel is a French dog similar to the Welsh Spaniel, although the breed is considered a Pointer and not a Brushhound, like the Spaniels. Breton dogs were first recorded in paintings and tapestries in the 1700s. The modern Brittany Spaniel developed in Pontou in the province of Brittany in France during the 1800s, where it developed its bobtail and tailless character. Like so many other European breeds, the Brittany Spaniel lost popularity at the turn of the 20th century due to the rise of European conflicts, but was imported to the Americas, where the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1934.
Standard of the Brittany Spaniel

A little of the Bourbonnais Pointing Dog

The Bourbonnais Pointing Dog is a recent addition to the American Kennel Club, having been recognized for the first time in 2013. This breed was developed in France and is the only Shorthaired Pointer of its kind. The Bourbonnais Pointing Dog can trace its lineage back to the 1500s in France and Italy and continued to develop until the early 20th century when the breed was abandoned due to rising European conflicts. The breed was almost lost and only revived in 1970. In 1973, a dog worthy of the standard was registered and helped re-establish the breed. The Bourbonnais Pointing Dog was introduced to the United States in 1988, but remains little-known today.
Standard of the Bourbonnais Pointing Dog

Appearance of the Brittany Bourbonnais

The Brittany Bourbonnais is a hybrid of two Pointers with different coat styles. The Epagneul Breton has longer hair, while the Braque du Bourbonnais has short, fine hair. Your Brittany Bourbonnais' coat will lean more towards a parent, but often the hair is short and fine like the Braque du Bourbonnais, but the Brittany Bourbonnais will have longer hair on its back. Brittany Bourbonnais are lean, muscular dogs of medium size with well arched feet. The head is pear-shaped and proportionate to the body. Most often, the bite is scissor-like, but it can also be level, and a Brittany Bourbonnais' ears are at eye level and of medium length. The eyes of the Brittany Bourbonnais are large and round, and match the coat color, ranging from hazel to amber.

Temperament of the Brittany Bourbonnais

Their lineage makes them particularly suited to activities such as agility, hunting, jogging, obedience and retrieving. They are happy both outdoors and at home, tend to be people-oriented, kind and loyal. This breed is highly trainable, although owners should be sure to use positive feedback as harsh corrections can damage these adorable dogs. Socialization is essential, as these dogs are naturally shy. Long daily exercise sessions are also essential to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive.

Needs and activities of the Brittany Bourbonnais

The Brittany Bourbonnais is a calm, even-tempered mix that is very affectionate with its family. Both parent breeds do well with strangers, but can be cautious at first. The hybrid loves children and needs an active family to stay healthy. The Brittany Bourbonnais is a mix of two intelligent, loyal hunting companions and can be a tracker. Although this dog does well with other dogs of similar size, small dogs and cats can excite the prey mind. Early socialization with smaller animals can help your Brittany Bourbonnais live in harmony with smaller animals. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and very active. The Brittany Bourbonnais needs plenty of exercise to burn off excess energy. When it comes to training, these dogs are eager to please and moderately easy to train, although their independent ridges can sometimes make some training difficult.

Maintenance of the Brittany Bourbonnais

The Brittany Bourbonnais is a low-loss mix, but requires weekly grooming to remove loose or dead hairs. Brushing your dog is an opportunity for you to bond and develop your relationship. For all the independence of this hybrid, both parent breeds also need family interaction and don't tolerate solitude well. Bathing is to be avoided for Brittany Bourbonnais unless necessary. The shorter coat means the skin can become irritated and natural oils can be stripped away with frequent bathing. A damp, lukewarm towel and brush usually cleans the Brittany Bourbonnais very well and will help prevent any "doggy" smell from developing, even though this crossbreed is not known to smell.

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