One of Italy’s native hunting dogs is the Bracco Italiano, which is still commonly used for hunting in the country. This breed is known for its love of hunting and can also make a great companion for families. They are generally friendly towards everyone, even strangers. The Bracco Italiano is highly skilled in scenting and retrieving, making them an excellent choice for various dog sports such as agility, tracking, rally, and nose work. They are also well-suited for rehabilitation work and search and rescue activities. However, it’s important to note that this breed should not be left alone for long periods as they may become destructive or excessively bark.
The other native hunting dog of Italy is the Spinone Italiano. Similar to the Bracco Italiano, this breed is also utilized for hunting purposes in Italy. They are known for their friendly and sociable nature, and they typically get along well with everyone, including strangers. The Spinone Italiano can be a great addition to a family, particularly when given plenty of opportunities to play and exercise. They excel in various dog sports and activities, such as agility, tracking, and search and rescue. However, it’s crucial to provide them with mental and physical stimulation to prevent them from becoming bored or engaging in destructive behaviors.
Below, we look at Bracco Italiano dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Bracco Italiano, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Bracco Italianos!
| Dog Breed | Bracco Italiano |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 55-88 lbs (average) |
| Height | 22-34″ (average) |
| Location | Italy |
| Ancestry | Pointer |
| Date of Origin | Ancient Times |
| Group | Gun dog |
| Life Expectancy | 11-13 years |
| Price | $500 – $600 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
Many people believe that the Bracco Italiano can be traced back to the 4th and 5th centuries, as they can be seen in ancient paintings. There are also paintings from the 14th century that depict dogs resembling the Bracco Italiano. However, it is difficult to determine the exact lineage of the breed from such a long time ago. It is speculated that the orange and white variety originated in the Piedmont region, while the brown and roan variety may have originated from Lombardy. The orange and white Bracco Italiano was specifically bred for hunting in mountainous areas, so they were built to be lighter and more agile. On the other hand, the brown and roan variety had heavier bones and were often used for hunting in marshy lowlands.
The Bracco Italiano gained popularity among noble families such as the Gonzaga and Medici, who used these dogs to drive game into nets and assist falconers in flushing prey. As firearms became more common in hunting, the Bracco Italiano’s role shifted to pointing and retrieving game. The breed also played a significant role in the development of other European pointing breeds, as they were often given as gifts to European nobility. However, by the early 20th century, the Bracco Italiano faced a decline in popularity.
Fortunately, the breed was revived by an Italian breeder named Ferdinando Delor de Ferrabouc and the Societa Amatori Bracco Italiano. To increase genetic diversity, the two varieties of the breed were crossbred. The official breed standard was established in 1949, and in 1956, the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognized the Bracco Italiano. It wasn’t until 2006 that the United Kennel Club recognized the breed. In 2007, the Bracco Italiano Club of America was formed, and in 2010, the breed was approved to compete in American Kennel Club performance and companion events.
🐕 Bracco Italiano Appearance
The Bracco Italiano should have a powerful build. His skin must be elasticized and robust, with the skin on his head, throat, armpits, groin, and belly being the thinnest. He has a short, thick coat. On his head, ears, and the front of his legs, the hair is finer and shorter. His coat should always be shiny and never seem dull or lifeless. He comes in the following four hues: white, orange and white, chestnut and white, and amber and white. A warm shade of chestnut would be preferable, and it would have a monk-like appearance. He may have melato or roano-marrone flecks on his white clothing. His coat should have a metallic gloss when he possesses roano-marrone. His mucous membranes must match the hue of his coat, but they must never include any black. His mouth’s mucous membranes ought to be pink. The facial mask worn by the Bracco Italiano is normally white, and symmetry is favored.
| 👀 Eye Color | Blue |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Brown, Isabella |
| 🐕 Coat Color | White, Brown, Black |
⚡ Fun Fact: Bracco Italiano dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Bracco Italiano
A dependable and tough hunting dog, the Bracco Italiano may also make an excellent household pet. He requires a household who recognizes his need for regular activity and his strong instinct to flush out prey. He does need a strong fence to contain him. He may be effective and meticulous in his everyday contacts with his family because he is a hunting breed. He enjoys social interaction and is committed to his family. Although he will be apprehensive of strangers to some extent, he is generally welcoming of most people. To guarantee that he is welcoming of all individuals, he does need early socialization. He gets along with other dogs in general, but cats and other small animals should be avoided. He is great with kids, but he does demand that they respect his personal space. Toddlers or kids who don’t completely respect him shouldn’t be left alone with him.
🤝 Are Bracco Italianos Friendly or Aggressive?
The Bracco Italiano breed typically doesn’t have a good relationship with other pets and may not be the friendliest towards them. However, they tend to be average in terms of friendliness towards strangers. When it comes to children, Bracco Italiano dogs are considered kid-friendly and can be a suitable choice for families with kids. Although they may not be the most cat-friendly dogs, they are average in terms of friendliness towards other dogs. Additionally, Bracco Italianos are often recommended for elderly individuals, possibly due to their calm and gentle nature.
This breed is known for being:
- Playful
- Stubborn
- Affectionate
- Loyal
- Trainable
- Companionable
🐩 Bracco Italiano Care & Maintenance
Weekly grooming is necessary for the Bracco Italiano to get rid of any dirt and dead hair. His hair is so thick that he does shed a little. However, because of his short hair, when he is not maintained groomed, the coat that is being lost has a tendency to drift through the air and collect on items of furniture and clothing. Make use of a firm, natural-bristle brush to assist clear the dirt and hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or a finishing spray made for dogs to keep his coat looking glossy. He will require routine nail clipping because his nails are strong and grow swiftly. Every week or every other week, check his nails and trim them as necessary. To prevent the nails from cracking or splitting while being clipped, use a nail grinder. Every week, his ears need to be examined and cleaned as necessary. To maintain his teeth and gums in good health and strength, a regular dental plan must be devised.
Bracco Italiano dogs have a moderate amount of shedding, which is a natural part of their hair growth cycle. Brushing their fur regularly can help minimize the amount of hair they shed. The amount of shedding can also vary depending on the dog’s overall health and the specific breed they belong to. In terms of bathing, Bracco Italiano dogs typically require a bath every 4-6 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 2.5 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or approximately $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Bracco Italiano dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 5 miles per week, which equates to about 30 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Bracco Italiano dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Bracco Italiano Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Bracco Italiano Dog Breed can be:
- Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
- Kidney Problems
While minor concerns include:
- Entropion
- Ectropion
- Bloat
🤧 Important: Is Bracco Italiano hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Bracco Italiano.
⚡ Bracco Italiano Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Bracco Italiano a great choice for families with young children?
The Bracco Italiano is a great choice for families with young children because they are generally friendly and good with children. However, it is important to teach the children to respect the dog’s space.
Is the Bracco Italiano breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Bracco Italiano breed is not considered suitable for apartment living. They have high energy levels and require a lot of exercise and space to run and play.
How much exercise does a Bracco Italiano require compared to other breeds?
The Bracco Italiano requires a significant amount of exercise compared to some other breeds. They have a high instinct for hunting and flushing out prey, so they need regular physical activity to stay mentally and physically stimulated.
Is the Bracco Italiano breed known for being good with other pets?
The Bracco Italiano breed is generally good with other dogs but should be watched around cats and other small pets. Early socialization is important to ensure they are accepting of all people and animals.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bracco Italiano?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bracco Italiano include the Basset Hound and the Bloodhound. These breeds have similar hunting instincts but may require less exercise and have lower grooming needs.
What are the common health issues that Bracco Italianos are prone to?
Bracco Italianos are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and bloat. Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help prevent or manage these conditions.
Are Bracco Italianos known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Bracco Italianos are known to be intelligent and eager to please, which can make them relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. However, consistency and positive reinforcement training methods are recommended.
Are Bracco Italianos more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Bracco Italianos can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. They are very devoted to their families and thrive on human companionship, so they may become anxious when separated from their loved ones.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Bracco Italiano that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Bracco Italiano that are suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle and the Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hair instead of fur, which reduces the amount of allergens they produce.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Bracco Italiano are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller-sized dog breeds similar to the Bracco Italiano, which are best for individuals or families with limited space, include the English Cocker Spaniel and the Brittany Spaniel. These breeds have similar hunting instincts and energy levels, but their smaller size makes them more suitable for smaller living spaces.
Is the Bracco Italiano breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Bracco Italiano breed can be good with children with special needs, as long as the children are taught to respect the dog’s boundaries and the dog is properly socialized. However, it is important to assess each individual dog’s temperament and match it with the specific needs of the child.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Bracco Italiano?
The grooming needs of the Bracco Italiano are moderate. They have short, dense coats that require regular brushing to keep them clean and free from debris. They are moderate shedders and may require occasional bathing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning like most other breeds.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Bracco Italiano dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
