The origin of the Brittany is controversial. The Brittany may have resulted from a crossing between the Orange & White Setter and some not clearly identified French dog. This hearty hunting dog probably originated in Brittany, a province in France. The Brittany is believed to have been first shown at a French dog show in 1896. It was recognised as a breed as early as 1905 but official recognition came in 1938 with a recognised standard. They used to be called the Brittany Spaniel. The 'Spaniel' was dropped, as they were the only breeds of Gundog that could enter two breed classes at field trials.

Appearance
The Brittany should be athletic, compact, and solidly built without being heavy. It is long-legged and elegant. Its expression should be one of intelligence, vigour, and alertness. The Brittany should never be heavily built or cumbersome. Its gait is elastic, long, and free.

Some Brittanys are born with naturally short tails and others with long tails. If born with a long tail it is normally docked to a length of 3 to 10 centimetres (1 to 4 inches). In countries where docking is illegal long-tailed Brittanys should carry their tails level with the back or slightly lower.

Character
In temperament, the Brittany is friendly and eager to please. These friendly little dogs hunt more like a Setter due to their pointing ability, and are higher on their legs than other Spaniels. The Brittany does not require a heavy hand in training. In fact, they may quit if the discipline is too stern. Much more is accomplished with a gentle hand. The Brittanys seek human attention, which makes them easier to train than some other hunting breeds. They make close working hunting dogs, fine companions, and family pets.
 

Temperament
The Brittany is intelligent, and easy to handle and trained for hunting. It is a loving and gentle animal; obedient and always eager to please. Happy and alert, the Brittany is a very active and enthusiastic hunter. It is good-natured and easy to care for. Some Brittanys can be nervous or hyperactive. This dog can become timid if treated roughly. Socialise extensively as a puppy. The Brittany likes to roam. They are good with children if they are raised with them from puppy-hood. The Brittany has earned great popularity among millions of hunters because of its moderate size, which allows hunters to transport them easily. Because of its jolly character, the Brittany is also popular as a companion dog. Brittanys get along well with other dogs and enjoy working with other dogs as a team. Many Brittany enthusiasts encourage new Brittany owners to be a two dog family. As pets Brittanys are first-rate companion dogs but they do need plenty of exercise. Their outgoing nature makes them poor candidates for protectors.

Exercise/Training
The Brittany is generally a hardy dog that requires little maintenance. Its major requirement is for abundant exercise, at least an hour of exertion — not just walking — every day. For this reason, the Brittany is not suited for apartment life. Playing and obedience are very good types of mental exercise. 20 minutes obedience and playing with your Brittany will be more useful for the dogs exercise then an hour walk on the leash can provide.

Color
The most common color pattern for Brittanys is white with orange patches. Other accepted colors are liver and white, black and white, liver tri-color and black tri-color. Any of these color combinations can be found in a clear or roan pattern with some ticking. The American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club do not recognize black as an acceptable color for the Brittany, but it is allowed in all other registries worldwide. The coat of the Brittany is of moderate length, dense, flat, or wavy, with slight feathering on the ears and legs. Too much feathering is undesirable as it impedes the Brittany’s work in thick brush.

Grooming
The coat of the Brittany is not particularly thick or long, but it does require brushing once or twice weekly. A good nutrition and regular brushing keeps the proper coat of the Brittany shine and the skin healthy. Bathing doesn’t harm the coat of the Brittany as long as you use a good quality shampoo that doesn't dry the skin and coat and is formulated for a canine coat. The ears of the Brittany should be kept clean and regularly inspected as well.

Any breed described as "good with children", the dog must be accustomed to children. Any dog that is not well socialized with children will not behave predictably around them. As with all dogs, they should never be left alone with young children.