Brittany Lifespan & Health Guide
The typical Brittany lives 12–14 years, with a median of 13 years.
The Brittany is an agile, energetic pointing breed that originated in the Brittany province of France as a versatile gun dog. Smaller and leggier than most spaniels, the breed combines the pointing ability of setters with the compact size and enthusiasm of a spaniel, making them exceptional all-around bird dogs. Brittanys are renowned for their intense drive in the field, their sensitivity to their handler's cues, and their affectionate, people-oriented nature at home.
12–14
years lifespan
30–40
lbs (male)
17.5–20.5
inches tall (male)
very high
energy level
How Long Do Brittanys Live?
Brittanys have a lifespan of 12–14 years, with a median of 13 years. The main health factors that affect how long a Brittany lives:
- hip dysplasia
- epilepsy
- hypothyroidism
- canine discoid lupus erythematosus
- lens luxation
Temperament
How Old Is Your Brittany in Human Years?
Use our breed-specific calculator to find out, plus get personalised health and care guidance for your dog’s exact age.
Open Brittany Age CalculatorBrittany Size & Weight
30–40 lbs
Male weight
30–40 lbs
Female weight
17.5–20.5″
Male height
17.5–20.5″
Female height
Size category: medium · Group: Sporting
Common Brittany Health Problems
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia in Brittanys involves malformation of the hip joint where the ball and socket do not fit together properly, leading to progressive joint deterioration and arthritis. While the breed has a lower incidence than many larger sporting breeds, it remains a significant concern given the Brittany's high activity demands. Affected dogs may show reluctance to run or jump, particularly noticeable in a breed that is typically tireless. Early detection through OFA or PennHIP screening allows for proactive management to preserve athletic function.
Typical onset: 1–4 years
Epilepsy
Idiopathic epilepsy is a neurological condition causing recurrent seizures without an identifiable structural cause. Brittanys have a recognized genetic predisposition to the condition, and it tends to manifest during young adulthood. Seizures can range from mild focal episodes to severe generalized convulsions. The condition is typically lifelong and requires medication, but most affected Brittanys can lead normal, active lives with proper management. Stress and missed medications are common triggers for breakthrough seizures.
Typical onset: 1–5 years
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormone, leading to metabolic slowdown throughout the body. Brittanys are among the breeds with elevated risk for this autoimmune-mediated condition. The onset is gradual and symptoms can be mistaken for normal aging, which delays diagnosis. In a naturally energetic breed like the Brittany, a noticeable decrease in energy and enthusiasm may be the first sign owners detect before other symptoms become apparent.
Typical onset: 4–10 years
Canine Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE)
DLE is an autoimmune skin condition that primarily affects the nose and face, causing depigmentation, crusting, and ulceration of the nasal planum. Brittanys have a higher incidence of this condition compared to many other breeds. While not life-threatening, DLE can cause significant discomfort and disfigurement. The condition is exacerbated by sun exposure, and affected dogs require lifelong management to prevent painful flare-ups and secondary infections.
Typical onset: 2–7 years
Lens Luxation
Lens luxation is a condition where the lens of the eye becomes displaced from its normal position due to weakening or rupture of the zonular fibers that hold it in place. In Brittanys, this can be a primary inherited condition or secondary to other eye diseases. Anterior luxation, where the lens moves forward, is a veterinary emergency that can rapidly lead to glaucoma and permanent vision loss if not treated within hours. Posterior luxation is less immediately threatening but still requires veterinary management.
Typical onset: 3–8 years
Recommended Health Screenings
Breed-specific tests and evaluations recommended for Brittanys:
- Hip evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
- CERF/OFA ophthalmologic exam
- Thyroid panel (T4, free T4, TSH)
- Complete blood count and chemistry panel
- Cardiac evaluation
Typical Veterinary Costs
Brittanys are generally rated medium on the annual veterinary cost scale, based on breed-specific health risks, known chronic conditions, and typical screening requirements. Routine wellness care plus budget for breed-specific screening tests.
When Is a Brittany Considered Senior?
Brittanys are generally considered senior at around 9 years of age. At this point, you should increase vet visits to twice yearly and watch for age-related health changes.
Check your Brittany’s age in human years →Brittany Exercise Needs
Adult Brittanys need 90–150 minutes of exercise per day. Adult Brittanys are among the most demanding sporting breeds in terms of exercise requirements. They are happiest with 90+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise combined with mental stimulation. A Brittany that does not receive adequate exercise will not be a pleasant house companion. Field work, running, and swimming are ideal outlets for their natural drive.
Cautions: ensure adequate hydration on long outings; check for ticks and burrs after field work; watch for signs of overheating in summer
Brittany Diet & Nutrition
Adult Brittanys typically eat 1.5–2.5 cups of adult formula (sport/active or high-performance) per day, split into 2 meals. Active Brittanys, especially those used for hunting or field trials, may require a sport or high-performance formula to meet their caloric needs. Adjust portions based on activity level — a field trial Brittany may need significantly more calories than a companion dog. Despite their energy expenditure, Brittanys can maintain lean condition easily and rarely overeat.
Key nutrients: high-quality animal protein (25-30%) for muscle maintenance, moderate to high fat (15-20%) for sustained energy, omega-3 fatty acids for coat and joint health, antioxidants for recovery
Brittanys are naturally lean, athletic dogs that rarely struggle with obesity when given adequate exercise. However, pet Brittanys that do not receive sufficient activity can gain weight, particularly after spaying or neutering. You should always be able to see a clear tuck-up when viewing the dog from the side, and ribs should be easily felt with minimal fat covering. An overweight Brittany is a sign that exercise needs are not being met rather than a feeding problem.
Brittany Dental Care
Brittanys generally have good dental health and tolerate tooth brushing well due to their cooperative, people-pleasing nature. Their love of retrieving means they frequently carry objects in their mouths, so regular checks for cracked or worn teeth are advisable, particularly for hunting dogs that retrieve game. Dental care should be introduced gently given the breed's sensitivity — harsh handling during brushing can make future dental care difficult.
Brittany Coat & Grooming
Coat type
Medium-length, flat or wavy with light feathering
Shedding
moderate
Energy
very high
Brittany Trainability
Brittanys are rated easy to train. They typically calm down around 36 months of age.