Bracco Italiano

Like every breed, the Bracco Italiano is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Use kind, reward-based methods and plenty of patience.
• Take things steadily, as Braccos take a while to mature.
• Socialise early with other pets, livestock and children.
• Work hard on a solid recall and a reliable retrieve to hand.
• Teach them to swap carried objects for treats or toys so they never feel inclined to guard.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Usually sociable with other dogs.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Usually needs a roomy home.

• Garden

  A secure garden is strongly advised.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Best with an experienced owner.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Hip dysplasia

  An abnormal formation of the hip joint. The Royal Kennel Club recommends hip testing under the BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme as best practice.

• Elbow dysplasia

  An abnormal development of the elbow joint. The Royal Kennel Club recommends elbow testing under the BVA/KC Elbow Dysplasia Scheme as best practice.

• Osteochondrosis dissecans

  A joint condition named as one the breed can suffer from.

• Entropion

  A painful eye condition where the eyelids roll inwards.

• Ear infections

  The long, hanging ears make ear infections more likely.

• Bloat

  The breed is prone to bloating and stomach problems. Smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce the risk.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a Bracco Italiano home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a Bracco Italiano home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, not just the first year.

If you have decided the Bracco Italiano suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

Bracco Italianos do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.