BrittanyVSEnglish Springer Spaniel

The Brittany is known for being bright, eager, fun-loving, while the English Springer Spaniel is typically described as friendly, playful, obedient. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 5/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

Noise-wise, the English Springer Spaniel is more vocal with a barking level of 3/5, while the Brittany is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Brittany may be the better choice.

The Brittany is a medium breed standing 44–52 cm (17–20 in) tall and weighing 14–18 kg (31–40 lbs). In comparison, the English Springer Spaniel is a medium breed at 46–51 cm (18–20 in) and 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs).

The English Springer Spaniel is somewhat larger, though the difference isn't dramatic. Both breeds are manageable for most owners, but the size gap does affect food portions and space requirements.

The Brittany has a medium coat available in orange and white, liver and white, roan, while the English Springer Spaniel sports a medium coat in liver and white, black and white, tricolor. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Brittany has very high energy (5/5) with very high exercise needs (5/5). The English Springer Spaniel has very high energy (5/5) and very high exercise needs (5/5).

Both breeds have similar exercise requirements, so your daily activity routine won't change much regardless of which you choose. Plan for regular walks and play sessions to keep either breed content.

For apartment dwellers, the English Springer Spaniel is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 2/5, compared to the Brittany's 1/5. The Brittany generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.

The English Springer Spaniel sheds more than the Brittany — 3/5 versus 2/5. You'll want to invest in a good lint roller and vacuum if you go with the English Springer Spaniel.

Grooming-wise, the English Springer Spaniel needs more upkeep (3/5) than the Brittany (2/5). The English Springer Spaniel's medium coat demands regular professional grooming to stay in top shape.

Annual grooming costs average around $150 for the Brittany and $250 for the English Springer Spaniel. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Brittany has a lifespan of 12–14 years, while the English Springer Spaniel lives 12–14 years. Both breeds have comparable lifespans.

In terms of overall health robustness, the Brittany scores 4/5 compared to the English Springer Spaniel's 3/5. The Brittany is generally a hardier breed with fewer genetic health concerns.

Common health issues for the Brittany include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, canine discoid lupus. The English Springer Spaniel is prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, elbow dysplasia, ear infections. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $400 for the Brittany and $450 for the English Springer Spaniel. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Both breeds are equally trainable at 5/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well with either breed.

Both breeds match in intelligence at 5/5, so expect similar learning speeds and mental stimulation needs from either choice.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

The English Springer Spaniel edges ahead as a family dog, scoring 5/5 with children versus the Brittany's 4/5. The English Springer Spaniel's friendly temperament makes it especially patient around kids.

The initial purchase price for a Brittany ranges from $700–$1,500, while a English Springer Spaniel typically costs $800–$2,000. The English Springer Spaniel is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,090 for the Brittany and $1,300 for the English Springer Spaniel. The English Springer Spaniel costs more annually, largely because of higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $45 for the Brittany and $50 for the English Springer Spaniel. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.