The Bracco Italiano is a noble, powerfully built Italian pointing dog known for its sculpted head, long velvety ears, and effortless ground-covering trot. Calm in the home yet driven in the field, the Bracco is affectionate, biddable, and happiest with owners who enjoy training, hiking, and scent work. If you’re asking “Are Bracchi good apartment dogs?”—yes, for active homes that meet exercise needs. “Do Bracco Italianos drool?”—a bit, thanks to their pendulous lips. “Do Bracchi shed?”—light to moderate.
An ancient gundog from Italy, the Bracco’s roots trace to noble kennels that prized a versatile hunter able to track, point, and retrieve game birds. Often depicted in Renaissance art, the breed was refined into today’s steady, cooperative “trotter,” capable of covering ground efficiently in varied terrain. Modern Bracchi compete in field trials across Europe and are increasingly popular companions in North America for active, training-minded families.
An athletic, substantial pointing dog with distinctive head planes and loose skin at the throat.
Easy coat care, but consistent ear/skin attention is key.
A purposeful athlete built for sustained, efficient movement.
Gentle, eager, and scent-driven—make it positive and structured.
Fuel an athletic body while keeping a lean outline.
Generally robust; responsible screening matters.
Seek health-tested, temperament-sound dogs with field aptitude—or consider rescue.
Are Bracco Italianos good apartment dogs?
Yes—if you provide 60–90 minutes of daily exercise, training, and enrichment.
Do Bracchi drool?
A little—pendulous lips (“flews”) mean occasional drool, especially after water or exercise.
Do Bracco Italianos shed?
Light to moderate; weekly brushing keeps hair and dander down.
Are Bracco Italianos hypoallergenic?
No. They are not hypoallergenic.
How much exercise does a Bracco need?
Plan for 60–90 minutes daily, ideally with field drills or scent games.
Bracco vs German Shorthaired Pointer—what’s different?
Bracchi are heavier-boned, trot-focused “trotters,” typically calmer off duty; GSPs are lighter, versatile all-rounders with more galloping style.
How are Bracchi with kids and other pets?
Affectionate family dogs with early socialization; supervise around small pets due to prey drive.
What health tests should breeders do?
Hips/elbows and CAER eye exams; discuss eyelid conformation and any family history of bloat/GDV.
Do their ears need special care?
Yes—clean and dry weekly (more often for swimmers) to prevent infections.
