Bracco Italiano

CitizenShipper - Trusted by 125,000 pet owners since 2008!

Ultimate guide to Bracco Italiano

Learn everything there’s to know about Bracco Italiano.

Bracco Italiano: The Italian Pointer with Elegance and Vigor

Breed Characteristics

  • Origin: Italy
  • Size: Large
  • Weight: Males 55-88 lbs, Females 55-66 lbs
  • Activity level: High
  • Barking/howling level: Low
  • Good with dogs: Mostly
  • Good with cats: Sometimes
  • Shedding: Medium
  • Grooming level: Low
  • Training level: Medium

Bracco Italiano Appearance

The Bracco Italiano is a large, muscular dog with a distinctive appearance. They have a sculpted head with a long muzzle, droopy lips, and expressive eyes. Their ears are long and floppy, framing their face elegantly.

Standing between 22 to 26 inches tall, the Bracco Italiano has a powerful yet lean body. Their coat is short and dense, typically found in white with orange or chestnut markings. Some may have a roan pattern.

One of the most striking features of the Bracco Italiano is its unique gait. They move with a distinctive extended trot that showcases their power and grace.

Bracco Italiano Personality

The Bracco Italiano is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. They are intelligent, docile, and eager to please, making them excellent family companions. While they can be stubborn at times, their loyalty and devotion to their family is unwavering.

A close-up image of a Bracco Italiano with long ears and a sad expression. The background is blurred.Man with dogMan with dog

Bracco Italiano Exercise Needs

As a hunting breed, the Bracco Italiano has high exercise requirements. They need daily vigorous activities to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Long walks, runs, or engaging in canine sports are excellent ways to meet their exercise needs.

Ideal Environment for a Bracco Italiano

The Bracco Italiano thrives in spacious environments with access to outdoor areas. A house with a large, fenced yard is ideal. However, they can adapt to apartment living if provided with ample exercise and mental stimulation.

Ideal Human for a Bracco Italiano

The perfect owner for a Bracco Italiano is active and outdoorsy. They should be committed to providing daily exercise and mental challenges. Patient individuals who can handle the breed's occasional stubbornness will find a loyal and affectionate companion in the Bracco Italiano.

Bracco Italiano Training

Training a Bracco Italiano requires patience and consistency. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them generally easy to train. However, their occasional stubbornness can pose challenges.

Early socialization is crucial for this breed. Expose them to various people, animals, and environments from a young age to ensure they grow into well-rounded adults.

Positive reinforcement techniques work best with Bracco Italianos. They respond well to praise, treats, and play as rewards for good behavior. Harsh corrections can be counterproductive and may damage the trust between dog and owner.

Bracco Italiano Grooming

The Bracco Italiano's short, dense coat is relatively low-maintenance. Regular brushing, about once a week, helps to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. They shed moderately, with increased shedding during seasonal changes.

Bracco Italiano Health

Generally, the Bracco Italiano is a healthy breed. However, like all purebred dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential to catch and address any potential problems early.

Some health concerns to watch for in Bracco Italianos include:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Entropion (inward rolling of the eyelid)
  • Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)

Responsible breeding practices can help mitigate these health risks. Always obtain your Bracco Italiano from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings on their breeding stock.

Bracco Italiano Nutrition Needs

A balanced diet is crucial for the health and well-being of a Bracco Italiano. As a large, active breed, they require high-quality dog food that meets their energy needs.

The amount of food should be adjusted based on the dog's age, size, activity level, and metabolism. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can exacerbate health issues like hip dysplasia.

Bracco Italianos may benefit from a diet formulated for large, active breeds. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best feeding plan for your individual dog.

Bracco Italiano History

The Bracco Italiano, also known as the Italian Pointer, is an ancient breed with roots tracing back to the 4th or 5th century BC. They were developed in Italy as versatile hunting dogs, capable of pointing and retrieving game on both land and water.

Getting a Bracco Italiano

Before getting a Bracco Italiano, research the breed thoroughly to ensure it fits your lifestyle. Consider adopting from a rescue organization or purchasing from a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and temperament of their dogs.

~ $900 Animal food
~ $100 Toys and treats
~ $325 Training

How much does it cost to own and care for a Bracco Italiano?

Owning a Bracco Italiano involves significant financial commitment. The first year of ownership typically costs between 2,000 to $2,500 for the puppy and an additional $1,800 to $4,000 for essentials like food, medical care, training, and supplies. This brings the total first-year expenses to approximately $3,800 to $6,500. These costs cover necessities such as licensing, insurance, vet visits, vaccinations, food, training, toys, treats, and grooming.

Price of Bracco Italiano ownership - First 12 months *

  • $2,000 - $2,500 Purchasing a Bracco Italiano
  • $10 - $30Licensing/registration
  • $300 - $600Insurance
  • $600 - $1,200First-year medical expenses: vet visits, vaccinations
  • $600 - $1,200Food (depends on size of dog/brand of food)
  • $600 - $1,200Training
  • $50 - $150Toys and treats
  • $100 - $400Grooming
$3,810 - $6,580 Total expense for the first year
Note: These estimates are compiled by our team of researchers based on market averages. Actual costs may vary depending on your location, individual pet needs, breeder/adoption fees, veterinary rates, and product choices. Please consult local veterinarians and pet care providers for costs specific to your situation.

Bracco Italiano Rescues

While Bracco Italianos are relatively rare outside of Italy, some rescue organizations specialize in this breed. Check with national breed clubs for information on Bracco Italiano rescues in your area.

Bracco Italiano Breeders

When looking for a Bracco Italiano breeder, prioritize those who are members of recognized breed clubs and adhere to ethical breeding practices. Reputable breeders will provide health clearances for their breeding dogs and allow you to visit their facilities.

Looking to ship your Bracco Italiano?

No hidden costs or upcharges. Just a simple and stress-free experience. Get started in two minutes or less!