The Brittany in Australia

The introduction of the Brittany to Australia can be traced back to 1974, when Jack Thompson and Ian Waldron, after observing the breed’s exceptional performance in Field Trials across Europe, decided to import the first four Brittanys into Australia from France and Holland. These pioneering dogs quickly demonstrated their impressive working abilities, prompting Jack Thompson to bring in additional bloodlines. In 1977, he imported a bitch and a male from the United States with desirable traits and pedigree. By the end of 1977 approximately 1OO puppies had been bred and distributed across Australia, including to New Zealand, Tasmania, Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia.

The Brittany quickly gained recognition for its outstanding scenting ability, surpassing 90% of all Utility Gundog breeds. Jack Thompson, deeply impressed by the breed’s skills, considered the Brittany to be one of the most gifted and capable game finders he had ever worked with. He believed the Brittany was an indispensable companion for rough shooters in Australia, due to its versatility as an all-round gundog. Known for its biddability, excellent temperament, ease of training, and natural working abilities, the Brittany adapted exceptionally well to Australia’s unique terrain and conditions.

The first four Brittanys to be imported in 1974 were De Windes Iwan (Imp Ndls) “Don” and Ien Du Moulin De Callac (Imp Fr) “Kate”, imported by Mr. Ian Waldron of Pinebritt Kennels, and Itou Des Margottins (Imp Fr) “Max” and Itron Des Cornouaille (Imp Fr) “Sue”, imported by Mr Jack Thompson of Dunfrui Kennels. These early imports laid the foundation for the development of the breed in Australia.

Following these initial imports, additional dogs were brought into the country to further strengthen the gene pool. In 1977, Rusty of Belflower Too (Imp USA) and Pistols Ginger Girl (Imp USA) were imported, followed by Tanta Manu (Imp USA) and Tanta Lulu (Imp USA) in 1979. In 1985, Joymonds Vagabond (Imp UK), Joymond Hugo (imp UK), Joymonds Veronica (Imp UK), and Joymonds Adele (Imp UK) further contributed to the breed’s diversity.

Initially known as the “Brittany Spaniel” in Australia, the breed’s name was officially shortened to “Brittany” in 1998. The Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) last updated the Brittany’s Breed Standard in 2003, adopting the Fédération