Bracco Italiano Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Bracco Italiano is a noble Italian pointer with a Roman nose, long ears and a soft, droopy face. It is an ancient breed that hunts at a flowing trot, and it is gentle, sensitive and devoted to its family.

Origins and appearance

The breed has been depicted in Renaissance paintings and was prized by Italian nobles for hunting. Bracchi are large and powerful, with a long head, a Roman nose, long ears, loose lips, a short, dense coat in white with orange or chestnut patches or roan and a docked or natural tail.

Temperament

They are gentle, affectionate and sensitive. They bond closely with family and are usually good with children and other pets. They are calm indoors. They are slow to mature. They dislike harsh handling and being left alone.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, with walks, running and play. They enjoy field work and hiking. Mental work matters. They need secure fencing.

Training

They are intelligent and willing but sensitive. Use gentle, positive methods and patience. Early socialization helps. Avoid harsh corrections. House training may take time. See also how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing. See short coat dog grooming guide. Wipe the lips, clean the ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Entropion and ectropion
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Cerebellar ataxia, with a DNA test
• Obesity

Living with a Bracco Italiano

They suit families with space and tolerance for drool. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone.

A typical day

A Bracco enjoys a morning walk or run, a long nap, family time and an evening outing. Many shadow their owners.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are large and clumsy. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a large dog and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate warm weather well, but feel the cold. Provide a coat. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, neglecting the ears and lips, harsh training and leaving the dog alone.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, DNA tests and the parents' temperaments. The breed is rare, so expect a wait.

A flowing trot

Braccos hunt at a ground-covering trot with the head held high. Pet owners often enjoy the elegance, and long hikes suit the breed.

Sensitive souls

Braccos remember harsh words and may shut down if scolded. Reward-based training and calm routines build confidence.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Bracco suits gentle, active owners who want a noble, calm gundog and accept drool. It may not suit those wanting a very quick, obedient dog. For a related Italian breed, see the Spinone Italiano.

Daily care checklist

• A brisk walk or run, with off-lead time in a secure area.
• Wiping the lips and checking the long ears for dirt or moisture.
• A weekly rub with a soft brush or grooming mitt.
• Measured meals, with quiet time afterward.
• Short, positive training sessions.
• Company and a soft bed, since many Braccos like comfort.

Slow to mature

Braccos often stay puppyish for two or three years. They can be clumsy and mouthy while young. Calm routines, patient training and plenty of reassurance help a sensitive youngster grow into a steady adult.

Show and working lines

Some Braccos are bred mainly for hunting, others for the show ring. Ask breeders about the lines, temperaments and health tests, and find out how the dogs live. A calm, friendly, confident adult is a good sign.

The takeaway

Bracchi Italiani are noble, gentle and sensitive, and they need exercise, patience and company.