AKC Dog Breeds: Bracco Italiano

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Foundation Stock Service® Breed
Height: 21-26 inches   Weight: 55-88 pounds  Color: White. Markings of Amber, Orange, Chestnut., may be Roan or Speckled

The Bracco Italiano is a breed of dog developed in Italy as a versatile gun dog. It is common in its native country, but rare elsewhere. The Bracco Italiano originated in Italy, and there are writings concerning the breed that date back to the 4th and 5th centuries BC. It is believed to be a cross between a Segugio Italiano (a coursing hound) and the Asiatic Mastiff. There are two variations of the breed. The first originated in Piedmont, and was for that reason known as the Piedmontese Pointer. The other originated in Lombardy, and was known as the Lombard Pointer. The Bracco from Piedmont is lighter in color and in build, probably due to the mountainous terrain there. The Lombard Pointer is dark in color and thicker in body. It was well established by the Middle Ages. The Bracco thrived during the Renaissance and was bred by both the Medici and Gonzaga families. The Bracco Italiano nearly became extinct during the early 1900's. They were revived and saved by Italian breeder Ferdinando Delor de Ferrabonc. The Bracco Italiano is extremely rare in the United States.

General Appearance
The Bracco should be athletic and powerful in appearance. The Bracco Italiano is muscular, strong, and has a distinctively shaped head. The Bracco Italiano is a large, tall canine that has striking coloring features. They can be brown and white or orange and white, with freckles all around. They are muscular with a thin face, and wrinkled hanging skin around the chin and neck. Their noses can be from brown to pink, and they have a smooth, fine coat of fur.  This breed exhibits a serious expression, powerful appearance, and is squarely built. It has pendulous upper lips that create a serious expression. It should be "square", meaning that its height at the withers should be the same as the length of its body. The coat is short, dense, and glossy. The texture should be fairly hard, though somewhat shorter and softer on the head, throat, ears, legs, and feet. The gait should be long and fluid, with plenty of reach and drive. The head should be held above the topline.

Temperament
The Bracco is very much a people loving dog. They thrive on human companionship and have a need to be close to their people. Bracco Italiano's are quiet, gentle, and loyal. The Bracco Italiano forms close bonds with their family. They do well with older children. Bracchi love to play. They get along well with other dogs and pets. They are very willing to please. They are active, energetic, and affectionate. The Bracco Italiano do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time or if they are ignored. They are intelligent, agile, and vigorous. Although born for hunting, they are also excellent companions. They are able to make strong distinctions between work and play, and know when each is needed. The Bracco Italiano can be a strong worker in the field, but rest easy with a docile temperament at home. Italian Pointers are also obedient and loyal, doubling from easygoing pet to avid worker in an instant. This breed is not recommended for first time dog owners. The Bracco is highly trainable, but can be stubborn. Harsh reprimands do not work with this breed. As puppies they may chew, but do not get neurotic as some other high energy breeds are prone to do.


Grooming

Bracco Italiano's require regular brushing with a firm bristle brush to remove loose and dead hair is required. This breed is an average shedder. Bathing should only be done when necessary. It is important to check and clean the ears regularly.

Health Problems and Life Expectancy

Bracco Italiano's are prone to bloat, hip dysplasia, eye problems, and ear infection. They have a life expectancy of around 14 years.

Activity Level
The Bracco Italiano breed is not recommended for apartment living. They require an inordinate amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. The Bracco Italiano thrives on hunting, swimming, and family interaction. The breed loves to hunt, and they excel at it. The Bracco knows when it has a job to do and takes it seriously. They are an active breed and need sufficient exercise to keep them happy. They do best in a rural setting with room to roam. They enjoy and excel in such activities as tracking, hiking, agility, biking, therapy, jogging, and search and rescue.







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