Country pursuits with a Bracco Italiano: Hunting & family guide

Setting your heart on a Bracco Italiano puppies can sometimes lead to disappointment. There are very few Braccos (also called ‘Bracchi’) in the UK, and most responsible breeders are discerning with potential owners, often conducting home visits to ensure the dog will go to a good, loving home. Patience is a virtue here, but the reward is one of the most loving and countryside-savvy dogs you can find. Be prepared for a considerable amount of regular exercise, as the Bracco thrives on being outdoors, usually alongside other active dogs.

The Bracco Italiano, also known as the Italian pointer or Italian pointing dog, has its roots prominently in Italy. The breed remains popular in Italy and parts of Europe such as Croatia and Eastern Europe, where hunting and pointing ability are highly valued.

What makes the Bracco Italiano so desirable as a family and hunting dog?

The Bracco is a wonderful family dog, extremely affectionate and excellent with children. However, its instinct to explore the wild countryside often prevails over its desire to be a lapdog. Though it enjoys a good sleep, it eagerly awaits the next outdoor adventure. With its large, sensitive ears, the Bracco is attuned to the sounds of the countryside, including gunshots during hunting excursions, when it truly shines as a determined and spirited hunter. This breed shows a dual personality: calm and gentle at home, but free-spirited and intense when outdoors. When hunting or working rough terrain, the Bracco will consistently impress.

What can you expect from a Bracco Italiano?

These dogs are hardy all-weather companions, with large paws perfect for traversing muddy or thick undergrowth. Their highly sensitive ears and nose contribute to their exceptional hunting skills, reportedly able to hear and smell prey at distances of up to 100 metres. Owners should be aware that during hunting activities, the Bracco may become ‘deaf’ to commands due to their strong drive to pursue quarry.

Training a Bracco for hunting purposes requires patience and time; this breed matures fully around four years old, so early intense training is not recommended. A fully grown Bracco can weigh up to 40kg or more, especially after a muddy day out!

Their stamina is remarkable, making day-long country pursuits an endurance test for both dog and owner. The sight of a Bracco in full flight is captivating, with its ears trailing behind like stabilisers. Despite their size, these dogs are remarkably agile and make fast friends with other dogs. However, when a chase begins, the Bracco’s competitive spirit takes over, often winning the ‘race’ to the target. They are unwaveringly focused on tracking down ‘runners,’ pausing only to regain direction and composure.

Showing your Bracco Italiano

Opportunities to show your Bracco are available across the UK. For comprehensive information, the Italian Bracco Club website is an excellent resource, offering details of shows, activities, and expert care tips. Starting with small county shows allows you and your dog to appreciate the breed’s regal stance and gait in line with breed standards. These gatherings also provide chances to meet fellow owners and reputable breeders. Notably, the Bracco won Best of Breed at Crufts in 2015, highlighting its potential as a show dog.

Trialling your Bracco Italiano as a gun dog

Trialling is a challenging but rewarding endeavour. Judges expect precise training, with a head held high, ears alert, and tail slightly erect. The 'trotto spinto' or extended trot is characteristic of the breed; during which all four paws may momentarily leave the ground. The dog’s natural hunting skills—including quartering, pointing, and retrieving—are scrutinised. Achieving recognition in trials requires dedication but brings a profound sense of accomplishment.

Comparable breeds to consider

The English pointer puppies share some external characteristics with the Bracco, but many owners note significant differences in hunting style and temperament.

A common comparison is made with the Italian Spinone puppies. While both are Italian hunting breeds, the Spinone is more at home in water work, whereas the Bracco excels on solid ground. Owning both breeds would be ideal for a keen hunter seeking diverse skill sets.