Bracco Italiano (Italian Pointing dog)

The Bracco Italiano is a pointer dog that adapts to a number of different hunting styles. Although they are rarely used as pets they prove to be rather docile and affectionate despite their reputation as difficult dogs. Sometimes a little bipolar, they know how to be calm in a family setting but also how to unleash their energy and give it their all at work.
Key facts about the Bracco Italiano (Italian Pointing dog)
Origins and history
This is an ancient breed, mainly selected from the North of Italy, this dog was around in the Middle ages and common during the Renaissance. Brunetto Latini described the Bracco Italiano as orange and white in 1260. Their direct ancestors probably come from the Oysel dog, a hunting dog that has been around since the second Crusade. The breed was officially recognised by the FCI in 1956.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 7 - Pointing Dogs
Section
Section 1 : Continental Pointing Dogs
Physical characteristics of the Bracco Italiano (Italian Pointing dog)
Adult size
Female : Between 22 and 24 in
Male : Between 23 and 26 in
Weight
Female : Between 55 and 88 lb
Male : Between 55 and 88 lb
Coat colour
Their coats can be white-orange in colour: a white body with orange, amber or pale orange markings; brown roan: a white body with solid brown markings or speckles.
Type of coat
The hair is short.
Their coat is dense and shiny.
Eye colour
Their eyes are brown or ochre and lighter or darker according to the colour of their coat.
Description
The Bracco Italiano is built harmoniously, they are a solid dog, noble and elegant. They have a long and supple body, a large neck with a dewlap, a big chest and a robust frame. Their head is angular with an unpronounced stop and divergent craniofacial axes.
With droopy lips and oval eyes, they have a good-natured expression. Their ears are long and dangling sitting towards the back of the head.
Good to know
Going to a good breeder to buy a Bracco Italiano puppy is important. If not, you may end up with a shy or stubborn dog. Today, this dog has been bred to a high standard, in terms of both how they look and their work ethic.