Duly recognized and registered with the American Kennel Club in 1934, the Brittany Spaniel or Epagnuel Breton is a dog breed from France . Though said to be an established breed from 150 A.D., the Brittany is accurately documented to have existed in 17th century (mostly depicted in tapestries of that era). Believed to have come from the French province of Brittany, this dog breed is born with a naturally docked tail. They were popular with French poachers since they were known to have great stamina for a vigorous hunt.

Extinction around the early 19th century threatened the Brittany Spaniel breed until a breed enthusiast; Arthur Enaud resolved to revive this breed. Using a systematic breeding program, the breed was restored. By 1908, a Brittany Spaniel breed standard was established and in 1925 this breed made its way to the United States . Initially, most hunters didn't take to the Britt. In time with the few hunters that found the Britt worth the hunt, most hunters followed suit. Today, they are known for pointing field trials. The Britt has the ability to point to game but lacks the pointer's range. Despite this, the britt holds its game and retrieves it in either land or water. The Britt is mostly used for upland game in the United States while in France it is used for fur and feather hunting.

The Brittany Spaniels have 2 types: 

American Brittany 's- found to be taller and lithe. It is fast and covers more ground when hunting in large sparse land.

French Brittany 's- are smaller and very spaniel-looking, these Britt's work well near guns.

The Brittany Spaniel is a medium sized dog. It is compact yet agile, quick and vigorous. It is characterized by short droopy ears nestled high on its head, enabling it to isolate sound from hiding game. Clear and alert eyes accompany this unassuming gun dog. The Britt coat can be orange and white, liver and white, tri-color and black and white. They may have roan patterns, having splotches of color on its face, ears and back. They may have a blaze of color up at the front of its face with white legs and feet.

Brittany Spaniels have a penchant for hunting fowl; they have been seen as keen pointers. There have been documented Brittany 's luring wild ducks to near the edge of the pond in order for its hunter to strike from the bushes. Retrieving of the fallen fowl is also left to the Brittany Spaniels.

The Brittany Spaniels are characterized as loyal, good-natured, lively and highly trainable. They are obedient, but because of their playfulness, a stern look or a curt reprimand from its owner is not taken seriously. A gentle and creative way of training (best candidates for clicker method) this breed is a must, since harsh and pain related training is bound to break the dog's spirit.

Aside from exhilarated by the hunt, the Brittany Spaniel has the right temperament for children. Though this breed may get too rambunctious, it is best to keep the energy level of romping with kids to a minimum. They are friendly with other household pets (with exception to those of the feathered kind!). This dog is more of an alarm dog in cases of danger for its owners, expect them to make a ruckus rather than be offensive with strangers.

The Brittany Spaniel is known for its excitement and exuberance, keeping it from human contact or from exercise is doing injustice to the dog breed. Like most highly intelligent dogs that learn fast, Britts get bored easily. Stimulation and continued activity in between hunting seasons is best for this bundle of energy.