A devoted, easygoing companion with a warm nature at home and great stamina outdoors. It is reliable, clever and responsive to training, and usually patient with children and other dogs when well socialised.1346
how to spot oneBracco Italiano coat and colours
short smooth coat
A short, thick and shiny coat that is even finer on the head, ears and fronts of the legs. Loose skin, long drooping ears and a sculpted head give the breed its distinctive, soulful face.164
Colourswhitewhite with orange or amber patcheswhite with chestnut/brown patchesorange roanliver (chestnut) roan132
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Bracco Italiano. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
by countryIs the Bracco Italiano legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Bracco Italiano in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksBracco Italiano exercise needs
Needs a lot of exercise: Hill's suggests 45-60 minutes daily with scent work, while The Royal Kennel Club advises more than two hours a day.46
the hands-on bitsBracco Italiano grooming and care
Low-maintenance coat: a weekly brush and a bath only when dirty. Check the long ears regularly and keep them dry.46
what goes in the bowlBracco Italiano food and feeding
A complete and balanced diet that supports muscle and joints in an active sporting dog.4
where it all beganBracco Italiano history
The Bracco is one of the oldest pointing breeds, with similar dogs shown in Italian art from the 14th century and used to find game for netting. By the late 1800s a heavier and a lighter type existed, and Ferdinando Delor drew up a standard for the larger one. After lean years, breeders revived it, and Italy approved the modern standard in 1949.123
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Dogs resembling the Bracco appear in Italian paintings and frescoes as early as the 1300s.1
2
It was first used to find and point birds that hunters then caught with nets.3
3
In the late 1800s there were two kinds: the larger 'bracco nobile' and the smaller 'bracco comune'.2
4
It arrived in the UK in the 1990s and has done well in the show ring there thanks to its stylish movement.6
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed name "Bracco Italiano" comes from Italian, where "Bracco" is derived from the ancient Italian word for a type of hunting dog, and "Italiano" simply means "Italian." In English, it is also known as the Italian Pointing Dog.5
I woke up to the smell of coffee and my human's voice. 'Ready to track?' I thumped my tail on the floor. We drove to the woods, and I put my nose to work, following a scent through the tall grass. My human smiled and said, 'Good boy!' We walked for hours, and I checked every bush. Back home, I lay by the fireplace, tired and happy. The kids came home and I gave them a gentle nuzzle. They hugged me. I love my pack. Tomorrow, we do it all again.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 202, Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.1 Continental Pointing Dogs, type Braque, with working trial; standard dated 13.11.2015; full FCI acceptance 1956.1
ENCI
Italian breed standard approved and breed society formed in 1949.2
Popularity About 700 new registrations per year in Italy between 2010 and 2018 (ENCI data cited by Wikipedia).
homemade and simpleTreats they will love
Bracco Italiano tip
For this active breed, choose high-protein, low-calorie treats and use them sparingly to avoid weight gain that can stress joints. Always account for treats within 10% of daily calories.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Bracco Italiano, and at what times?
Feed your adult Bracco Italiano at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times, such as morning and evening, help with digestion. Check the food label for portion sizes and ask your vet for a tailored plan.47
What should a Bracco Italiano eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete and balanced diet that supports muscle and joints is ideal for this active breed. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always avoid these and consult your vet for specific dietary advice.48
How often should I bathe a Bracco Italiano?
Bathe your Bracco Italiano only when dirty, roughly every 8 weeks as a starting plan. The ASPCA suggests at least once every three months, but more frequent baths may be needed if they are very active outdoors. Use a gentle dog shampoo.469Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Bracco Italiano need brushing?
A weekly brush is perfect for the short, smooth coat to keep it shiny and reduce shedding. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing every 7 days. This routine also helps you check for any skin issues.469Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Bracco Italiano's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on hard floors. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut small bits at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink area). If unsure, ask your vet or a professional groomer for guidance.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Bracco Italiano need?
This breed needs a lot of exercise, at least 45, 60 minutes daily with scent work, and some sources recommend over two hours. Daily walks, play, and mental stimulation are essential to keep them happy and healthy.46Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Bracco Italiano's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth at least 2, 3 times a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check the long, floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt and keep them dry. Never push anything into the ear canal, just wipe the outer ear gently.946Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Bracco Italiano live?
Bracco Italianos typically live between 10 and 14 years. With proper care, nutrition, and regular vet checkups, they can enjoy a long and healthy life.4
Is a Bracco Italiano good with children and other pets?
Yes, when well socialised, they are usually patient with children and get along well with other dogs. They are devoted, easygoing companions at home. Early socialisation is key to bringing out their best nature.1346
Can a Bracco Italiano be left alone?
This breed is very people-oriented and may not do well if left alone for long periods. It varies by individual, so it's best to ask a good breeder or your vet for advice on managing alone time and preventing separation anxiety.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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