Brittany First Year Costs

Upfront Costs

What Does a Brittany Cost to Acquire?

Puppy from a reputable breeder: $800–$2,500. Brittanys are widely bred in both show and field lines; pricing varies accordingly. Field-bred Brittanys from proven hunting lines often run $1,200–$2,500. Show-line puppies from health-tested parents are typically $1,000–$2,000. The American Brittany Club maintains a breeder directory. Ask for OFA hip and elbow clearances and eye certifications from both parents — hip dysplasia is a documented concern in the breed.

Rescue adoption: $150–$400 through Brittany rescue organizations or general sporting dog rescues. Rescue Brittanys are often surrendered by owners who underestimated the breed's exercise requirements — a prepared, active home is an excellent match.

Initial setup costs: $250–$500

• Crate (medium to large, 36–42 inches): $60–$120
• Dog bed: $50–$100
• Collar, harness, leash: $50–$100
• Grooming tools (slicker brush, comb, blunt scissors): $40–$80
• Bowls: $25–$50
• Fetch toys and activity enrichment: $30–$50

Exercise infrastructure: $0–$1,500. A Brittany requires vigorous daily exercise — a securely fenced yard significantly improves quality of life for this active breed. If fencing is not already in place, budget for it. This is not as absolute a requirement as for sighthounds, but it meaningfully affects how easily the breed's exercise needs can be met.

First Year Recurring

First Year Ongoing Expenses

Food: $500–$750 for the first year. Medium-sized dry food for a 30–40 lb dog. Budget $40–$65 per month. A high-quality formula appropriate for active sporting dogs supports the Brittany's energy level and joint health.

Veterinary care (first year): $400–$800

• Initial wellness exam and puppy vaccination series: $150–$350
• Spay or neuter: $150–$400
• Heartworm and parasite prevention: $100–$200/year for a medium breed
• OFA hip and elbow pre-screening: some breeders complete this before sale; ask about the puppy's parents' clearance documentation

Pet insurance: $400–$900/year. Recommended for a Brittany. Hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism are breed health concerns that can involve ongoing treatment costs. Insurance enrolling before the first vet visit provides the broadest coverage.

Grooming: $40–$200/year. Home grooming is fully adequate for most Brittany owners. A one-time tool investment of $40–$80 covers the necessary equipment. Some owners choose occasional professional bathing ($50–$80 per session) for convenience, but it is not required. Professional grooming fees for the Brittany are modest due to the relatively simple coat.

Training: $200–$600. A Brittany benefits significantly from basic obedience and, ideally, some form of structured field or nose work training. Puppy class plus a follow-up obedience course runs $200–$400. Field training or hunting dog classes for field-line Brittanys add $200–$600+ for formal instruction.

Exercise activities: $50–$300/year. Hunt tests, agility, or organized dog sports are excellent outlets for this breed's energy and drive. Entry fees, memberships, and travel add up modestly — budget $50–$300 annually depending on participation level.

Total & Ongoing

First Year Total and Long-Term Costs

First year total estimate: $2,800–$6,000 (including purchase price). The range reflects purchase price variation between field and show lines, and whether fencing or field training adds to the investment.

Annual ongoing costs after year one: $1,200–$2,200

• Food: $500–$750
• Routine vet care and preventives: $300–$550
• Pet insurance: $400–$900
• Grooming: minimal at home, or occasional professional bathing

Budget for potential additional costs:

• Hip dysplasia treatment in significant cases: $2,000–$6,000 per joint
• Epilepsy management (lifelong medication if diagnosed): $500–$2,000/year
• Hypothyroidism medication (lifelong): $200–$600/year — relatively low cost if diagnosed

Over a 12–14 year lifespan, total ownership cost excluding purchase price is typically $14,000–$28,000 depending on health outcomes and activity level. The Brittany is not an expensive breed to maintain relative to its size and energy level — the main investment is time and exercise, not money.