Epagneul Breton vs American Brittany: Working Dog or Show Ring Star?

When it comes to Brittany-type dogs, not all lines are created equal. If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a French Epagneul Breton (also known as the French Brittany) and the American Brittany, especially in terms of working drive versus show appearance, you’re not alone.

At Calibreton Kennels, we specialize in the Epagneul Breton working line—a dog bred to hunt, not just to pose.

⸻

1. Origins and Divergence

Both the French Epagneul Breton and the American Brittany share the same ancestry, but decades of breeding in different countries led to two very distinct dogs.

• Epagneul Bretons are still bred in France and Europe primarily for their hunting utility—close-working, cooperative, and eager to please.

• American Brittanys, especially show lines, have shifted toward a taller, leggier frameand often a more independent temperament—traits that help in the show ring but may not translate to the field.

⸻

2. Size and Structure

• French Bretons: Compact, muscular, and athletic. Typically stand around 18–20.5 inches and have a blockier, more rugged build.

• American Show Brittanys: Taller and more refined. Often bred with emphasis on elegant movement and appearance.

The difference becomes clear when you put one in a grouse field and the other in a ring—form follows function.

⸻

3. Drive and Temperament

• Working Bretons: Bred for their bird drive, biddability, and natural point. These dogs stay close, check in frequently, and are highly responsive to training.

• Show Brittanys: While still energetic and smart, some lines have less natural hunting instinct or may range farther, requiring more handling in the field.

If you’re looking for a dog that will hunt all day and curl up at your feet at night, the Epagneul Breton delivers.

⸻

4. Coat and Color

• French standards allow black and tricolor coats, which are disqualified in American show rings but have no impact on hunting ability.

• Breeders of working Bretons select for health and performance—not coat pattern or flash.

⸻

5. Why the Line You Choose Matters

If your goal is a versatile bird dog, a true companion in the field, and a breed with a proven legacy of cooperation, the working Epagneul Breton is unmatched.

While American show Brittanys are beautiful dogs and capable hunters in their own right, the working lines have preserved the balance of drive, focus, and family-friendly temperament that originally made this breed a legend.

⸻

Conclusion: Choose Purpose Over Pedigree

At Calibreton Kennels, we’re proud to breed Epagneul Bretons that stay true to their roots—French-bred, field-tested, and family-ready.

Want to learn more about our dogs or upcoming litters?  “Contact us” or “Follow us on Instagram”