Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Bracco Italiano Weight & Growth Chart
Complete weight guide with growth charts for male and female Bracco Italianos from puppy to adult.
The Bracco Italiano belongs to the Sporting group and originates from Italy. Adults typically weigh between 55 and 90 pounds, standing 21 to 27 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 10 to 14 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $184 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Bracco Italiano Weight Overview
Weight range for the Bracco Italiano: 55–90 lbs overall. Males: 55–90 lbs. Females: 46–79 lbs.
Males 55-88 lbs, females 55-77 lbs. Large and powerful, but should appear athletic rather than heavy. Significant variation in size within the breed.. Consult the growth chart below for typical weight progression by age.
Bracco Italiano Growth Chart
When Does a Bracco Italiano Stop Growing?
Expect your Bracco Italiano to reach adult height of 21–27 inches by 15–24 months. Full body maturity, including muscle development toward the 55–90 lb target, may continue until 18–30 months.
Growth is influenced by genetics, nutrition quality, and spay/neuter timing. Joint and eye conditions related to their heavy build and loose skin are the primary concerns. Bloat prevention is important for this deep-chested breed..
Bracco Italiano Male vs Female Size Differences
Male and female Bracco Italianos differ noticeably in size, a pattern common in large breeds. Males typically weigh 55–90 lbs, while females weigh 46–79 lbs. Both sexes stand 21–27 inches tall at the shoulder, though males tend to fall at the upper end of this range.
These size differences can influence practical ownership decisions. Larger males require more food, larger crate sizes, and stronger leash handling. Female Bracco Italianos at the lower weight range may be easier to manage physically for smaller handlers or families with children. Both sexes share the same temperament and health profile, so size preference should be a practical decision rather than a temperament-based one.
Is My Bracco Italiano Overweight?
Assessing your Bracco Italiano's body condition (healthy range: 55–90 lbs):
- Rib check: Run your hands along the ribcage, you should feel individual ribs under a slight fat layer
- Overhead view: A defined waist should be visible between ribs and hips
- Side profile: The abdomen should tuck upward behind the last rib
Overweight Bracco Italianos face higher risks of Hip Dysplasia, joint problems, and shortened lifespan. As a large-sized sporting breed, maintaining lean body condition is especially important for longevity. Work with your vet to adjust feeding and exercise if needed.
Bracco Italiano Weight Management Tips
Maintaining your Bracco Italiano at a healthy weight between 55 and 90 lbs is one of the most impactful things you can do for their long-term health. Studies consistently show that lean dogs live an average of 1.8–2.5 years longer than overweight dogs of the same breed.
Portion control: Use a measuring cup for every meal rather than estimating. Feed the amount recommended for your Bracco Italiano's ideal weight, not their current weight if they are overweight. Divide daily food into two meals for adults and three meals for puppies under six months.
Treat management: Treats should not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake. Use small, low-calorie training treats and consider using pieces of your dog's regular kibble as rewards during training sessions. Avoid table scraps entirely, as they add unpredictable calories and can introduce foods that are toxic to dogs.
Exercise alignment: With an exercise needs rating of 4/5, the Bracco Italiano requires vigorous daily activity. Insufficient exercise paired with full feeding portions guarantees weight gain. Ensure at least 60 minutes of activity daily, combining walks with active play sessions.
Regular weigh-ins: Weigh your Bracco Italiano monthly and track the trend. Gradual weight gain of even one to two pounds per month can lead to significant obesity over time. Your veterinarian can establish your dog's ideal weight during wellness visits and recommend caloric adjustments as needed.
Feeding Recommendation
Adult Bracco Italianos (55–90 lbs) typically need 0.8 to 1.8 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. Choose a large-breed formula to support joint health and manage the risk of Hip Dysplasia. Needs 45-60 minutes of daily exercise. Works at a trot rather than a gallop. Enjoys steady-paced hikes and field work. Not as intense as German or English pointers., adjust portions based on activity level. Budget $75–112/month for food costs.
Bracco Italiano Weight by Age Table
The following table shows expected weight ranges for male and female Bracco Italianos at key developmental milestones. Individual dogs may fall slightly outside these ranges depending on genetics, nutrition, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian if your Bracco Italiano's weight deviates significantly from these benchmarks.
| Age | Male (lbs) | Female (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | 16.2–19.8 | 13.7–16.9 |
| 6 months | 36.5–44.5 | 30.9–37.9 |
| 9 months | 52.7–64.3 | 44.7–54.8 |
| 12 months | 64.8–79.2 | 55.0–67.4 |
| 18 months | 77.0–94.0 | 65.3–80.0 |
| 24 months | 81.0–99.0 | 68.7–84.3 |
Health Risks of Incorrect Weight in Bracco Italianos
Both underweight and overweight conditions pose serious health risks for the Bracco Italiano. Understanding these risks reinforces the importance of maintaining your dog within the 55–90 lb target range.
Overweight risks: Excess weight places additional strain on joints, increasing the risk and severity of conditions like Hip Dysplasia. Overweight Bracco Italianos also face higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, respiratory compromise, heat intolerance, and reduced lifespan. Even moderate excess weight, just 10–15% above ideal, shortens life expectancy and reduces quality of life.
Underweight risks: A Bracco Italiano consistently below 55 lbs may be experiencing inadequate nutrition, parasitic infection, dental problems that prevent eating, or underlying illness. Underweight dogs have weakened immune systems, poor coat quality, reduced energy, and slower healing. If your Bracco Italiano appears thin despite normal feeding, veterinary examination is essential to rule out medical causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Breeds You May Also Like
If you are interested in the Bracco Italiano, you may also want to explore these breeds with similar size, temperament, or group classification.