Bracco Italiano Breed History

The Bracco Italiano is one of the only two native Italian Gundog breeds. The other is the Spinone. It belongs to the Hunt, Point and Retrieve Group of dogs. The Bracco is an ancient breed with writings about it dating back to the fourth and fifth centuries B.C. It is considered an antecedent of many of todays modern sporting dogs.

They are a strong, deep chested dog with muscular hindquarters. They range in height from 21.5 to 26.5 inches and weigh from 55 to 88 pounds. Their coat is glossy, short, dense and fine. Their colors are all white, orange and white, orange roan, chestnut and white or chestnut and roan.

They have a docile and gentle temperament yet a strong working nature. Training a Bracco requires patience and a calm nature. They are intelligent and quick to learn but can be stubborn and will lose ground if not handled correctly. They have superb noses and hold a staunch point as well as retrieve well to hand. They are excellent family pets living in the house and adapt to the outdoors just as well. Their calm good nature does not mean they can not be a deterrent to unwanted strangers with their sometimes used deep bark.

They are tireless in the field and appear not to expend energy unnecessarily. They are strong swimmers and can prove to be a very Versatile dog.

The are presently recognized by NAVHDA as well as ENCI and FCI (Italy and Europe).

Lewis & Stephanie Meisel
Dry Heart Kennel
Mandan, ND

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