The Bracco Italiano is a large, athletic dog with a noble and powerful build, characterized by its distinctive head and long ears.

Large, with males typically 23-27 inches tall and females 22-25 inches.

55-90 pounds, proportionate to height.

Short, dense, and glossy.

White, white and orange, white and chestnut, white and amber.

Angular and distinct, with a pronounced occipital protuberance.

Long, low-set, and hanging.

Thick at the base, tapering to a point, often docked for hunting purposes (where legally permitted).

The Bracco Italiano is known for its gentle, affectionate, and loyal nature, making it an excellent family companion and a dedicated working dog.

Known for their kind and patient demeanor, especially with children.

Forms strong bonds with their family and is devoted to their owners.

Highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.

Generally good with other dogs and people, though early socialization is important.

Possesses a good amount of energy and requires regular exercise.

Responds best to positive reinforcement training methods.

The Bracco Italiano is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise, training, and affection.

Loyal and devoted.

Not ideal for apartment living without extensive exercise commitment.

The ideal owner for a Bracco Italiano is someone who appreciates the breed's heritage, is committed to providing consistent training and exercise, and enjoys an active lifestyle with a loyal and loving companion.

The Bracco Italiano has moderate grooming needs, requires a balanced diet, and thrives in a home with ample space for exercise.

Weekly brushing to remove loose hair and occasional baths as needed.

Regular nail trims to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean their long ears regularly to prevent infections.

High-quality dog food, appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Ideally suited to a home with a large, securely fenced yard.

Regular teeth brushing is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene

Bracco Italianos are intelligent and respond well to positive training, though their sensitive nature requires a gentle approach. They have high exercise needs to match their hunting heritage.

Bracco Italianos are generally eager to please and quick learners. However, they can be sensitive, so positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, are crucial. Consistency and patience are key. Avoid harsh training techniques, as they can damage the dog's trust and spirit. Early socialization is essential to develop a well-rounded dog.

This breed requires significant daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Long walks, jogging, hiking, and interactive play sessions are ideal. They also excel in canine sports like agility, obedience, and, of course, hunting trials. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys and training activities can help keep their minds engaged.

Establish a consistent routine for training and exercise.

Use treats, praise, and play as rewards.

Expose your Bracco Italiano to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Provide puzzle toys and engaging activities to prevent boredom.

Due to their hunting instincts, ensure they are in a secure area when off-leash.

The Bracco Italiano is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing irritation to the eye.

Prone to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears.

A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, trapping gas and cutting off blood supply.

The Bracco Italiano's history is rich and ancient, with origins dating back to the 4th or 5th century BC in Italy. Believed to be a cross between sighthounds and mastiff-type dogs, they were initially bred for hunting and retrieving game birds. The breed flourished during the Renaissance, favored by Italian nobility for their hunting skills and elegant appearance. The Bracco Italiano faced decline in the early 20th century but was revived by dedicated breeders. The breed was officially recognized by the Italian Kennel Club (ENCI) and later by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted full recognition to the Bracco Italiano in 2023.

Yes, they are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them excellent companions for children, provided they are properly socialized.

They need a significant amount of exercise daily, including long walks, jogging, or other vigorous activities, ideally totaling at least an hour or two.

They have a short, dense coat and shed moderately. Regular brushing can help manage shedding.

Yes, they are intelligent and eager to please, but they respond best to positive reinforcement methods due to their sensitive nature.

The average lifespan is 10-14 years.

They are better suited to homes with yards due to their exercise needs, but they *can* adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Generally, yes, they are sociable and get along well with other dogs, especially if socialized from a young age.

They are not excessive barkers but will alert their owners to anything unusual.

Yes, they are relatively rare outside of Italy, but their popularity is growing.

Contact reputable breeders or Bracco Italiano rescue organizations. Be prepared for a potential waiting list due to the breed's rarity.