The Bracco Italiano is an attractive dog breed known for its skill as a hunting dog. However, these dogs are also incredibly popular as affectionate family companions. Keep reading to find out more Bracco Italiano facts and information!
They Are Serious Hunters
Also known as the Italian Pointer, the Bracco Italiano is one of the most popular Italian bird dog breeds. In the past, before the use of firearms, the breed was used to drive birds into nets. They were also used by falconers to flush out game for their falcons to catch. After the invention of the gun, breeders were able to modify this dog’s skillset to still be an effective hunting companion which included pointing and also retrieving game.
The Bracco Italiano Is an Ancient Breed
The Bracco Italiano is the oldest pointing dog breed in existence, dating as far back as 4th century BC! This breed was often given to nobles, and may have even been the distant ancestor of the English Pointer. Bracco Italianos were most popular during the Renaissance, when they were featured in all sorts of paintings.
They’re a Quiet Dog Breed
One of the most surprising fun facts about Bracco Italianos is that they have a low tendency to bark. This means they are often a popular choice for people who prefer quieter dog breeds. However, because they don’t regularly bark, Bracco Italianos are not suitable watchdogs. They are calm and rarely wary, so don’t expect a Bracco Italiano to warn you about any intruders!
They’re Very Affectionate
Many hunting dog breeds are great at their jobs, but aren’t typically the best choice for companionship. The Bracco Italiano is unique because, while it is known for its hunting prowess, it also makes an amazing family companion. In fact, even though they’re best known as hunting dogs, today they’re becoming increasingly popular as just companions.
The Bracco Italiano Needs Plenty of Exercise!
Even though a lot of Bracco Italianos bring home this dog breed as a companion, these dogs still need a lot of exercise! They were bred to be tireless hunters, and as such, they have high exercise needs. Bracco Italianos require a large, fenced-in yard to stretch their legs, as well as daily walks and runs.
They Almost Went Extinct
One of the most interesting facts about Bracco Italianos is that the breed nearly went extinct. Despite their intense popularity during the Renaissance, this breed began to decline in the 1800s, due to many health problems. Breeders were able to rework the breed to be much healthier, and it was brought back from near extinction. Sadly, however, this breed is still quite rare outside of Italy.
The Bracco Italiano Prefers Calm Households
While the Bracco Italiano may be ready for all sorts of excitement while hunting, they like a nice, quiet place to come home to at night. Even though this dog is strong and patient enough to withstand roughhousing from children, they typically prefer calm adults as company. While they can also be socialized to live well with other pets, they often prefer to be only dogs, especially because they love attention from their owners.
They Can Be a Bit Clingy
Most hunting dogs are known for being independent and even aloof. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to Bracco Italianos! These dogs are highly affectionate, and are known to follow their owners all over the place. Bracco Italianos are incredibly loving and devoted pets. Even people who don’t hunt love having this breed as part of the family!
They Require Early Training
Bracco Italianos are intelligent dogs, but they also have a stubborn streak. This breed needs to be trained at an early age, or else they have a tendency to do whatever they want! Furthermore, their high prey drive means that they should always be kept on a leash when outside. Otherwise, they have a tendency to run off and chase squirrels and other animals.
Bracco Italianos Are Rare Outside of Italy
One of the more unfortunate Bracco Italiano facts is that this breed is difficult to obtain outside its native Italy. Despite its ancient origins, it wasn’t until 1994 that this breed was brought to the United States. It can be hard to find a breeder, and Bracco Italianos tend to be expensive outside of Italy. However, lovers of this breed agree that these dogs are well worth the price!
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Hairless Dog Breeds
Usually, when we think of dogs, we think of furry creatures on four legs. But did you know that there are hairless canines as well? These unique dogs are a favorite among owners who need a hypoallergenic pet, or those who don’t want to deal with fleas or shedding....
Dogs With Short Legs
Dogs with short legs are often robust and adorable at the same time. While these canines were usually bred for hunting or working, they often make charming family pets, as well. With that being said, let's take a look at some of the most popular short-legged dog...
Retriever Breeds
Retrievers were specially created to retrieve game such as fowl and other animals while hunting, and they are revered for their obedience and trainability. So how many retriever breeds are there? Altogether, there are six official retriever breeds, and in this...
Giant Dog Breeds
Dogs can come in a bunch of different sizes, and a few breeds can be as big as humans, or even bigger! Giant dogs require an experienced and responsible owner, and they can be costly to care for, however they are extremely rewarding to keep as pets. That being said,...
Dog Breeds With Beards
One surprising yet adorable feature in some dog breeds is an adorable fluffy beard. This is a popular breed trait that adds a whole lot of personality to a dog. So here are the top dog breeds with beards, and what you'll want to know about each of them! Brussels...
Dogs With Dreadlocks
Dogs can come with all sorts of different hairstyles, but did you know that they can come with dreadlocks, too? If you want a dog that looks totally unique from all the other canines out there, then a dog with dreadlocks just might be the pooch for you. With that...
Dogs With Different Colored Eyes
While it may sound rare, there are actually a lot of dogs with different colored eyes. This is an odd but gorgeous condition that can occur in a variety of different breeds. So here are some of the top dog breeds with different colored eyes! Heterochromia in Dogs...
Slovakian Dog Breeds
Slovakia is a small country in central Europe. It is landlocked and bordered by Austria, Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. And from hounds to wolfdogs Slovakia has created some of the most unique canines on the planet. So here are the Slovakian dog...
Danish Dog Breeds
The Kingdom of Denmark is a Northern European country. It is made up of the peninsula of Jutland along with more than 400 islands. This Scandinavian nation is also home to a handful of its very own dog breeds, which to most people’s surprise doesn’t include the Great...
Czech Dog Breeds
The Czech Republic is a country in Central Europe. It has an interesting history and has been an independent state since Czechoslovakia dissolved in 1993 and split into two separate countries: the Czech Republic and Slovakia. And it has created some amazing canines....
Polish Dog Breeds
Located in Central Europe, the Republic of Poland is a country of stunning beauty with a range of natural habitats. And it’s also home to several remarkable breeds of dogs that were developed for specific jobs. So here are the Polish dog breeds and what you’ll want to...
Dogs That Look Like Cows
Real cows belong on the farm and don’t make great pets, however dogs that look like cows do! Luckily for cow fans there are quite a few breeds ranging in size from tiny to extra-large, that have a cow-like appearance. So here are the top cow-looking dogs and what...
Dogs That Look Like Horses
Horses are gallant creatures with long flowing tails and manes. And while these aren’t traits most people think of when it comes to canines, amazingly there are a handful of dogs that look like horses. So here are the top horse-looking dogs and what you’ll want to...
Romanian Dog Breeds
Nestled in Southeastern Europe, Romania is a country with a diverse range of wildlife, and that includes predators. To safeguard livestock in this rugged terrain, four distinct Romanian dog breeds were developed. Dive into the unique characteristics and histories of...
Dogs That Look Like Deer
Deer are beautiful and graceful creatures that use their speed to evade predators. And it’s no coincidence that most of the dogs that look like deer are fast on their feet as well. Their similar looks are the result of function, and that function is speed. Here are...
Thai Dog Breeds
Like many other countries around the world, the Southeast Asian country of Thailand can be credited with developing its own very own dog breeds. And while there are only two, both are incredibly unique with a look and temperament all their own. So here are both of the...
Maltese Dog Breeds
Even some of the smallest countries in the world have created their very own dog breeds. And the Republic of Malta is no exception. This Southern European island nation located in the center of the Mediterranean Sea has developed two unique breeds to call its very...
Dogs That Look Like A Rug
Different dog breeds can have wildly different coat types. And with so many breeds out there, a few even have coats that make them look quite rug-like in appearance. Here are nine dogs that look like a rug including what you’ll want to know about each of these...
Dogs That Look Like A Lamb
Dogs are unique to other animals because they come in an endless combination of shapes, sizes, and colors. It's no wonder these beloved pets have made their way into our hearts! No matter what kind of dog you prefer, you're sure to find at least one breed that fits...
Dogs That Look Like Sheep
Through artificial selection, dog breeders have created hundreds of unique breeds with a range of different physical characteristics. Some even look similar to other animals including sheep. So here are seven dogs that look like sheep, and what you’ll want to know...