A detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right breed for your lifestyle.
| Attribute | Brittany | Poodle |
|---|---|---|
| Size | medium | medium |
| Weight | 14–18 kg (31–40 lbs) | 18–32 kg (40–71 lbs) |
| Height | 44–52 cm (17–20 in) | 38–61 cm (15–24 in) |
| Lifespan | 12–14 yrs | 12–15 yrs |
| Trainability | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Energy Level | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with Kids | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Shedding | 2/5 | 1/5 |
| Grooming | 2/5 | 5/5 |
| Apartment Friendly | 1/5 | 3/5 |
| Health | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Price | $700–$1,500 | $1,000–$3,000 |
The Brittany is known for being bright, eager, fun-loving, while the Poodle is typically described as intelligent, elegant, athletic. 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 Poodle 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 Poodle is a medium breed at 38–61 cm (15–24 in) and 18–32 kg (40–71 lbs).
The Poodle 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 Poodle sports a curly coat in black, white, apricot, brown, cream, silver. 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 Poodle has high energy (4/5) and high exercise needs (4/5).
The Brittany requires more daily activity to stay happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors. The Poodle is more adaptable and can get by with shorter walks and play sessions.
For apartment dwellers, the Poodle is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 3/5, compared to the Brittany's 1/5. The Brittany generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.
When it comes to shedding, the Brittany drops more fur with a shedding level of 2/5, while the Poodle is lighter at 1/5. If pet hair on furniture is a concern, the Poodle will be easier to live with.
Grooming-wise, the Poodle needs more upkeep (5/5) than the Brittany (2/5). The Poodle's curly coat demands regular professional grooming to stay in top shape.
Annual grooming costs average around $150 for the Brittany and $600 for the Poodle. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.
The Brittany has a lifespan of 12–14 years, while the Poodle lives 12–15 years. The Poodle generally has a longer lifespan.
Both breeds score 4/5 for health robustness, meaning they share similar overall health profiles.
Common health issues for the Brittany include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, canine discoid lupus. The Poodle is prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, Addison's disease, bloat. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.
Annual vet costs average $400 for the Brittany and $450 for the Poodle. 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.
Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed can be a wonderful addition to a household with kids.
The initial purchase price for a Brittany ranges from $700–$1,500, while a Poodle typically costs $1,000–$3,000. The Poodle is the more expensive breed to purchase.
Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,090 for the Brittany and $1,650 for the Poodle. The Poodle costs more annually, largely because of higher food costs.
Monthly food costs run about $45 for the Brittany and $50 for the Poodle. 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.
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Brittany scores 4/5 for being good with kids, tying with the Poodle at 4/5. Both breeds can be great family dogs with proper training and socialization.
The Brittany is equally easy to train with a score of 5/5, matching the Poodle. Both respond well to positive reinforcement methods.
A Brittany puppy costs $700–$1,500 while a Poodle costs $1,000–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,090 for the Brittany and $1,650 for the Poodle.
The Brittany lives 12–14 years on average, while the Poodle lives 12–15 years. The Poodle tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
The Poodle adapts better to apartment living (3/5) than the Brittany (1/5). However, neither breed is an ideal apartment dog — daily outdoor exercise is essential.