Brittany Spaniel vs English Setter: Key Differences

Brittany spaniel vs English setter? Both are pointing bird dogs, but the Brittany is the smaller, faster, higher-energy dog: about 17 to 20 inches tall and 30 to 40 pounds, from France. The English setter is taller and heavier, about 23 to 27 inches and 45 to 80 pounds, from the United Kingdom, with a longer, silky coat.

Below is a side-by-side table, how each dog hunts and lives at home, and answers to common questions. Own a Brittany? Browse our Brittany dog shirts.

Brittany spaniel vs English setter at a glance

Figures come from Dog-Learn's breed comparison (Brittany vs English Setter). Individual dogs and lines vary.

Is a Brittany a spaniel?

Many hunters still say "Brittany spaniel," but the American Kennel Club lists the breed simply as the Brittany. It hunts like a pointing breed, holding point on birds rather than flushing them the way most spaniels do. The AKC describes it as "the agile, energetic Brittany," cherished "as a stylish and versatile gundog" (AKC).

Brittany spaniel vs English setter in the field

Brittany

Compact and quick, the Brittany suits hunters who walk a lot of cover for pheasant, grouse and quail. Its smaller size makes it easy to carry in a truck box and handle in thick brush. The AKC notes that Brittanys are "tireless afield" and "require a lot of exercises."

English setter

The setter is a larger dog with a long, flowing coat and a classic style on point. It is a traditional choice for grouse and woodcock hunters and for upland hunters who like a bigger dog. Its longer coat collects more burrs, so plan on brushing after hunts. Comparing setter lines? Read English setter vs Llewellin setter.

Which is better as a family dog?

Both can be friendly family dogs when they get enough exercise. Dog-Learn rates both breeds "above average" for family and child friendliness. The differences are practical:

• Space: Dog-Learn marks the Brittany as fine with a small yard, while the setter needs at least a medium yard. Neither is rated an apartment dog.
• Energy: the Brittany is rated "very high" energy, the setter "high." Both need daily running.
• Lifespan: 12 to 13 years for the Brittany, 10 to 12 for the setter.

What are the pros and cons of a Brittany?

Pros: compact size, a long average lifespan for a sporting dog, eager to please and versatile in the field. Cons: very high energy, so a bored Brittany can be a handful, and it needs regular hard exercise year round. Talk to a reputable breeder or your vet about health testing for either breed.

Shirts for Brittany owners

Show off your bird dog at the field trial, the hunt camp or the dog park. Our Brittany shirts feature Brittanys with pheasants and other birds in camo and blaze orange designs, with your dog's name added. Depending on the design, styles include hoodie, long sleeve shirt, T-shirt and zip-up hoodie. Check each product page for exact styles and sizes. Planning a bird hunt? Read what to wear pheasant hunting.

FAQ

What are the key differences between a Brittany and an English setter?

Size, coat and energy. The Brittany is 17 to 20 inches and 30 to 40 pounds with a shorter coat and very high energy. The English setter is 23 to 27 inches and 45 to 80 pounds with a longer, silky coat.

Why are Brittanys no longer called spaniels?

The AKC registers the breed as the Brittany, and it works as a pointing dog rather than a flushing spaniel. Many hunters still use the older name.

What are the pros and cons of having a Brittany spaniel?

Pros: compact, versatile, eager to please, 12 to 13 year lifespan. Cons: very high energy and a big daily exercise need.

Which lives longer, a Brittany or an English setter?

The Brittany, at about 12 to 13 years versus 10 to 12 years for the English setter.