The Bracco Italiano originates from...
Dating back as far as the 4th and 5th centuries, the Bracco Italiano is mentioned in a number of historical writings. Highly sought by the aristocracy during the Renaissance era, the breed was very popular, however, towards the end of the 19th century, was facing near extinction. Originally bred as a versatile hunting dog, the breed is believed to have been selectively crossbred to achieve the characteristics shown today; the Segugio Italiano, a coursing hound, and the Asiastic Mastiff are the Bracco Italiano's likely ancestors — achieving a breed that is capable of pointing but with significantly more stamina.
The Bracco Italiano is characterised by...
Alternatively named the Italian Pointer, the breed is distinctive in appearance, boasting a square, athletic frame, long ears and tail, a solemn expression not dissimilar from the Bloodhound, and a short, tidy coat in colours of white-orange, amber, or chestnut. Primarily bred for the purpose of hunting, the Bracco Italiano is agile, with a strong sense of smell, and alert and instinctive. It is common to find a Bracco Italiano with its tail 'docked', which is carried out in some European countries where the practice is still legal.
The average Bracco Italiano...
Obedience training is essential when it comes to this breed. Due to its strong hunting instinct, it is not uncommon to find it chasing small animals, however this can be curbed if trained early on. Contrary to popular belief, hunting and gun dogs make very gentle and affectionate companions, loyal to their owner, and vigilant to threat and change. The average dog of this breed weighs anything between 25-40kg and has a life expectancy of 12 years. It’s easy temperament, energy, and trainability makes this a great breed choice for families.
Weaknesses...
As a large, deep-chested breed, it is prone to certain stomach complaints including stomach torsion, a severe ailment that requires immediate veterinary assistance, various kidney complaints, eye diseases, and skin problems brought about by the breed's characteristic folds of skin around the face and neck.
Browse more breed facts and information or take a look at our range of digestive aid products and skin and coat care products.
I own the beautiful 4yr old Merlin, a chestnut male Bracco. Although a showdog he still has all the attributes of a true working hpr
From Suffolk , United Kingdom
Our Bracco Havok is only 14 weeks old but already shows the easy going nature of this fabulous breed. He is on the whole a very calm pup but is keen to learn and this makes training so much easier. Fabulous with the grandchildren too.
From Flintshire, United Kingdom
Angelo has completely change my life... braccos are the most loving dog i have ever come across,he constantly brings me toys as gifts and gives human like cuddles, they are energetic and big but to be honest i live in a summer house with him and walk him half an hour a day and hes a dream ,there very intelligent and beautiful,amazing with kids and elderly he is a therapy dog ... wouldn't have another breed if not rescuing x