brittany spaniel: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowSpecialist / Formal
Quick answer
What does “brittany spaniel” mean?
A medium-sized breed of gundog of the spaniel type, originally bred for bird hunting.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A medium-sized breed of gundog of the spaniel type, originally bred for bird hunting.
A versatile hunting dog, also known as a 'Brittany' or 'Brittany Spaniel,' characterized by its energetic nature, floppy ears, and typically being born with a short tail or docked. It is now a popular family companion and show dog.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In American English, the breed is often simply called 'Brittany.' In British English, the full 'Brittany Spaniel' is more commonly retained in general usage, though breed enthusiasts use 'Brittany.'
Connotations
Same core breed connotations (hunting, family dog). No significant difference in connotation.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects. More common in contexts related to dog shows, hunting, or pet ownership.
Grammar
How to Use “brittany spaniel” in a Sentence
to own a Brittany Spanielto breed Brittany Spanielsthe Brittany Spaniel is known for...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “brittany spaniel” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The dog will spaniel through the undergrowth.
- (Note: 'to spaniel' is archaic/rare; standard usage is as a noun only.)
American English
- (Standard usage is as a noun only.)
adjective
British English
- She has a classic Brittany-Spaniel look.
- (Note: Usually used attributively as a noun modifier.)
American English
- He preferred a Brittany temperament.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in pet industry, breeding, or veterinary supply contexts.
Academic
Rare, may appear in zoology, veterinary science, or historical texts on dog breeding.
Everyday
Low frequency. Used by dog owners, hunters, and in general conversation about pets.
Technical
Standard term in cynology (study of dogs), kennel club classifications, and veterinary medicine.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “brittany spaniel”
- Misspelling as 'Britany Spaniel' or 'Britanny Spaniel'.
- Confusing it with other spaniel breeds like the Springer Spaniel.
- Using 'it' for the dog without establishing the noun first (e.g., 'The Brittany Spaniel... it is...' is correct).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they refer to the same breed. 'Brittany' is the shortened, modern name preferred by many kennel clubs and breeders.
Yes, they are known for being affectionate, intelligent, and good with children, but they require substantial daily exercise due to their high energy levels.
The breed originated in the Brittany province of France in the 19th century, likely from crossing local spaniels with English Setters.
They are often born with naturally short tails. Historically, if the tail was longer, it was docked. Docking practices are now banned or restricted in many countries.
A medium-sized breed of gundog of the spaniel type, originally bred for bird hunting.
Brittany spaniel is usually specialist / formal in register.
Brittany spaniel: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbrɪtəni ˈspænjəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbrɪtəni ˈspænjəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None specific to this breed name]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the region BRITTANY in France, and a SPANIEL with its floppy ears. 'A SPANIEL from BRITTANY.'
Conceptual Metaphor
[Not commonly applicable for a proper noun breed name]
Practice
Quiz
What is a key characteristic of the Brittany Spaniel?