Sporting Group
The Sporting Group are known for their energy and alertness, making them friendly, well-balanced companions. They were developed to work alongside hunters in locating and retrieving game. Due to their high energy levels, most require regular exercise and vigorous physical activity.
Brittany
Sportsmen on both sides of the Atlantic prize the Brittany for its agility, energy, and versatility as a stylish gundog. Lively and affectionate at home yet tireless in the field, Brittanys require ample daily exercise, ideally shared with their favorite people. Smaller than setters but longer-legged than spaniels, Brittanys stand around 20 inches at the shoulder. Their striking coats feature bold patterns in combinations of white with vivid orange or rich liver. Strong and rugged without being heavy, they move with speed and smooth efficiency. The face carries the soft, gentle expression treasured by bird-dog enthusiasts, while the high-set ears reflect the breed’s constant eagerness. The same drive and adaptability that make Brittanys exceptional hunters also shine in dog sports. Obedience, agility, flyball, dock diving—this intelligent and trainable breed is eager to excel at them all. The Brittany is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile hunting partner, an enthusiastic sport teammate, or a companion well suited to an active, outdoor-oriented family life.
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo, famously known as Italy’s charming “truffle dog,” is distinguished by its curly coat and richly furnished face. Beneath its plush, toy-like appearance lies a tough and capable working dog, prized for its exceptional sense of smell and its talent for locating truffles, one of the world’s most delicate and valuable culinary treasures. Endearing in every sense of the word, the Lagotto Romagnolo is covered from head to tail in dense, woolly curls, complemented by a full beard, expressive eyebrows, and prominent whiskers. Typically standing under 20 inches at the shoulder and weighing no more than 35 pounds, this breed may appear cuddly, but it possesses remarkable strength, stamina, and resilience. The distinctive curls of the Lagotto feel and behave more like human hair than traditional fur, contributing to both its unique appearance and practical working qualities.
Sussex Spaniel
Calm, affectionate, even-tempered, and steadfastly loyal, the Sussex Spaniel is often described as a gentle and dependable companion. Bred as a slow but determined hunting dog, this breed is equally content as a pleasant and devoted house pet. Its naturally serious, almost frowning expression charmingly contrasts with a typically cheerful and friendly disposition. Built long and low to the ground, the Sussex Spaniel resembles a blend of classic spaniel elegance and surprising power. Standing no more than 15 inches at the shoulder, the breed is nevertheless considered massive for its size, with a deep chest and heavy bone that reflect great strength and endurance. Its most recognizable feature is the rich golden-liver coat, abundant and feathered. The traditional spaniel head, framed by softly wavy ears and large hazel eyes, gives the Sussex its distinctive somber look—an expression delightfully at odds with its warm and happy nature.
Irish Red and White Setter
The lively Irish Red and White Setter is an athletic, medium-sized bird dog developed primarily for hunting. Playful, friendly, and full of energy, this breed is slightly shorter and more solidly built than its close relative, the Irish Setter. Hunters take great pride in watching a noble Irish Red and White Setter locked on point, perfectly still and focused. These medium-to-large gundogs are strong, muscular, and resilient, possessing the stamina and natural bird sense needed to perform reliably day after day. The breed’s striking coat—rich red patches set against a pearl-white background—serves a practical purpose by allowing hunters to easily spot their dog from a distance. Completing the picture is a handsome face that reflects both sharp awareness and gentle temperament.
Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano is a heavily coated hunting dog known for its sociable, gentle, and patient nature. Though it can show a touch of stubbornness, it is always affectionate and endearing. With ancient roots in Italy, the Spinone is one of Continental Europe’s most versatile field dogs. Solidly and squarely built, the Spinone Italiano is a true all-purpose hunter. Muscular and powerful, it is designed for stamina and perseverance rather than sheer speed. The dense coat has a natural, unclipped appearance and appears in a variety of colors and patterns. The breed’s face radiates old-world charm, highlighted by soft, expressive eyes framed by shaggy eyebrows and a distinctive beard—features that have captured hearts in Italy for generations and continue to do so around the world.
Bracco Italiano
The Bracco Italiano is one of the oldest and most distinguished pointing breeds in the world. Introduced to the United States in the 1990s, it has remained true to its roots as a versatile and dependable gun dog. Calm and gentle at home, the Bracco transforms into a tireless and determined worker in the field. Adaptable and resilient, the Bracco Italiano is well suited to a wide variety of hunting conditions. The breed is intelligent, reliable, docile, and highly trainable, making it a trusted partner for hunters. Its appearance is powerful yet refined, featuring lean limbs, well-developed musculature, and a distinctly sculpted head. In English, the breed is often referred to as the Italian Pointing Dog.
Ready to start your journey?
Join thousands of pet owners and get complete, integrated pet health care.