Bracco Italiano

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 12-13 years
The Bracco Italiano is generally a healthy dog, with very few major health concerns.

Hip dysplasia is a possibility for the Bracco Italiano, and it occurs when a malformed hip joint prevents the thighbone from fitting correctly into place. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and limping. In more severe cases, arthritis or even lameness may result, possibly necessitating surgery. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not breed, so ensure that your puppy’s parents have no history of the condition. Although it is hereditary, hip dysplasia can be triggered by rapid weight gain or injury.

Bloat may affect some Bracco Italianos. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid, expanding dangerously and putting excess pressure on surrounding organs. In some cases, the stomach also twists in what is known as gastric torsion, trapping blood in the stomach and blocking flow to the heart and other vital areas. Bloat can be fatal, so take your Bracco Italiano to your veterinarian immediately if you observe symptoms such as pale gums, failed attempts to vomit, excessive drooling, or a swollen stomach.

Eye issues such as ectropion and entropion have been recorded in this breed as well. Ectropion is when the eyelid rolls outward, causing irritation and sometimes leading to secondary issues such as conjunctivitis or dry eye. For the most part, cases of ectropion can be corrected surgically. On the other hand, entropion refers to the eyelid folding inward, which results in irritation or injury to the cornea. Inflammation and excess tearing may occur, as well as discharge or pus. Entropion can lead to decreased or even lost vision. Treatment can include antibiotics or eye drops, but surgery is required in many cases.

The Bracco Italiano may also experience allergies and can be sensitive to anesthesia.

The average life expectancy for a Bracco Italiano is 12-13 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

Bred as a hunting dog in Italy, the Bracco Italiano is also a sweet, loving, and affectionate family companion. However, hunting is in the Bracco Italiano’s blood to the extent that many breeders will not sell this breed to a family who does not plan to utilize his hunting skills in some fashion.

The Bracco Italiano is not well-suited to life in an apartment due to his exercise needs and love of running freely. It is also important to note that a non-hunting Bracco is typically an unhappy Bracco. At the very least, he should be involved in some kind of agility, tracking, or pointing activity to fulfill his desire to hunt. Aside from hunting, he does need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. At least thirty minutes to an hour of exercise daily is recommended for the Bracco Italiano, although many would be happy to exercise more frequently. He enjoys walks, runs, swimming, and games. His need for mental stimulation can be met with puzzle toys, plenty of human interaction, and challenging activities or training.

The Bracco Italiano should live indoors with his family, because he thrives on human companionship. He does not do well if left alone for long periods of time, but adequate mental and physical stimulation may help offset this issue. Most Braccos particularly adore children and can be excellent companions and playmates. If properly trained, the Bracco Italiano can typically get along well with other dogs. He does have strong hunting instincts, so supervision around smaller pets is recommended regardless of training. However, most Braccos can be guided to coexist with other animals peacefully. He is typically polite or friendly towards strangers. The Bracco Italiano can make a good watchdog because he will initially bark to warn of an approaching intruder. However, he is too friendly and not aggressive enough to be utilized as a guard dog. Indoors, the Bracco Italiano is generally quiet and calm. However, he does drool at times, particularly when he is excited.

Training the Bracco Italiano is not always an easy task. He can be a bit independent and strong-willed, so you must clearly demonstrate that you are in charge. Be very consistent in enforcing your rules and expectations. At the same time, he does typically want to please you, so encourage him with positive reinforcement such as encouraging praise, extra playtime, or favorite treats. The Bracco Italiano will not respond well to harsh treatment.

Grooming

The Bracco Italiano has a short, shiny, low-maintenance coat. A quick weekly brushing with a grooming mitt is sufficient to keep his coat looking its best. Bathe the Bracco Italiano as needed to keep him clean and presentable.

Trim his nails when they grow long enough to touch the floor in order to prevent overgrowth and cracking. Check his ears weekly for signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, and odor. Be sure you dry his ears thoroughly if you take him for a swim, as moisture that is trapped in the ears can lead to ear infections. Brush his teeth at least 2-3 times weekly to prevent bad breath and maintain overall good health.

Diet

The average Bracco Italiano should consume 3-6 cups of high-quality dry dog food each day. High-quality food is of particular importance for the Bracco, who tends to have a very low tolerance for additives and preservatives that are found in many commercial dog foods.

Take precautions against bloat by ensuring that your Bracco does not eat too rapidly. Also do not allow him to drink excessive amounts of water immediately before or after eating, and impose a one hour waiting period between eating and physical activity. Unless your veterinarian specifies otherwise, do not feed him from a raised bowl.

Ensure that your Bracco Italiano has access to clean, fresh drinking water at all times.
 

Find A Bracco Italiano Breeder

Bracco Italiano Puppies For Sale

Adopt A Bracco Italiano

Cost

The Bracco Italiano is a very rare dog breed who costs an average of $2,000-$2,500.

Although it is unlikely, if you do find a Bracco Italiano to adopt, expect adoption fees to cost up to $175, depending on your location.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Bracco Italiano ranks a 1.5. He is generally healthy, has a low maintenance coat, and can get along well with most people and pets if he is properly trained and socialized. He is not overly difficult to train, but he can be strong-willed. He needs plenty of attention as well as physical and mental stimulation, and he is happiest when he is utilized as a hunting dog.

 

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