Bracco Italiano
Background
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The latest addition to the Maursett Kennels, the Bracco Italiano is, perhaps, one of the oldest gundog breeds, tracing its history back to ancient hound stock (most likely as a result of a cross between the Molussus and the Egyptian Hound) and has been mentioned in writing as far back as the fifth century B.C.
The Bracco is a true, sporting dog with a well developed brain and is not, therefore, suitable for homes where his hunting ability is allowed to go to waste. This is definitely a breed that needs to work, being a strong and powerful animal, combined with a friendly nature and the need to please.
Gentle, but firm, is the key to success with training this breed - you are unlikely to come across a breed which gets more upset at criticism and chastisement than the Bracco Italiano.
This is no ordinary dog; it is highly intelligent and needs owners who recognise its natural need for companionship, exercise and brainwork. If you merely want a lapdog, look elsewhere - if you want a lapdog that also works for a living, this is the one for you! The Bracco Italiano is still on the Import Register with the Kennel Club in London, but has an enthusiastic following from show and working people in the UK. The Bracco Italiano Society has been formed to promote the breed in Britain and the Society offers support and advice for people considering the breed for themselves. Do please click on the link to see some of our photographs from the SABI 50th Anniversary Show at Casteggio, near Milan, in 1999:
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One of the two
native Italian breeds (the other being the Italian Spinone), the
breed belongs to the HPR (Hunt, Point & Retrieve) Group and
is actively promoted in Italian working events these days. The
breed nearly vanished during the early part of this century, but
tremendous work by SABI (the custodians of the breed in Italy)
helped revive its cause and it is now growing stronger every year.
Like so many other members of the HPR group,
the Bracco needs careful training - it is all too easy
for such an intelligent dog to go "deaf" and do
his own thing (on the other hand, they can often teach
their handlers a thing or two!).
With their
distinctive movement and
undoubted natural hunting skills, the Bracco Italiano is
sure to have a good future in Europe. Very loyal, and
with an amazing memory for people they like, they are a
fun breed to live with. 