Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Brittany Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Brittany colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
The Brittany belongs to the Sporting group and originates from France. Adults typically weigh between 30 and 40 pounds, standing 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 12 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 $130 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.
Brittany Colors Overview
Orange is the primary color pattern, produced by the e/e genotype at the Extension locus. Liver is produced by the B locus. Tri-color includes tan points.. The breed standard defines which colors are acceptable for competition.
Prospective owners should understand that color has no bearing on a dog's temperament or health (with rare exceptions linked to specific color genes). Choose a Brittany based on health, temperament, and breeder quality, not color alone.
All Brittany Colors
The Brittany is recognized in 5 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Brittanys make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Brittany Colors
Standard colors (4): Orange and White, Liver and White, Orange Roan, Liver Roan. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Brittanys are typically priced within the normal $800–$1500 range.
Non-standard colors (1): Tri-color. These colors occur in the breed but are not accepted for conformation showing. Non-standard colors may be priced higher or lower than standard colors depending on demand and breeder practices. Health and temperament are not affected by coat color in most cases.
How Color Affects Brittany Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($800–$1500) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$450–$750) |
While color can influence the price of a Brittany puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Brittany in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Brittanys is $800–$1500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Brittany Coat Type and Grooming
The Brittany's medium coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 2/5 and shedding at 3/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
The Brittany's low-maintenance coat is one of the breed's practical advantages. Weekly brushing removes dead hair and promotes skin health, while baths are needed only when the dog is dirty or every 6–8 weeks. Grooming costs are modest at $43–87 per month, and most routine grooming can be handled at home with basic tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Brittanys benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Brittany Coat Genetics
The Brittany's coat color is the product of several interacting genes. Orange is the primary color pattern, produced by the e/e genotype at the Extension locus. Liver is produced by the B locus. Tri-color includes tan points..
Modern DNA testing panels can identify a dog's genotype at key color loci, allowing breeders to predict puppy colors and avoid producing colors linked to health issues (such as double merle).
Rare vs Standard Brittany Colors
Among Brittanys, the standard colors (Orange and White, Liver and White, Orange Roan, Liver Roan) are most common. Non-standard colors like Tri-color are rarer and may command premium prices above the standard $800–$1500 range. Buyers should be cautious, extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.
Orange is the primary color pattern, produced by the e/e genotype at the Extension locus. Liver is produced by the B locus. Tri-color includes tan points..
Do Brittany Colors Change with Age?
Many Brittany puppies experience some degree of color change as they mature. Puppies may be born darker or lighter than their adult coat. Standard colors (Orange and White, Liver and White, Orange Roan, Liver Roan) typically stabilize as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat between 4 and 12 months of age.
Choosing a Brittany by Color
When selecting a Brittany puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Hip Dysplasia. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 5 recognized Brittany colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
Be cautious of Brittany breeders who promote non-standard colors at prices above the typical $800–$1500 range. These 'rare' colors may not be recognized by kennel clubs and can occasionally carry genetic health risks. A responsible Brittany breeder from the Sporting group focuses on health testing for Hip Dysplasia and temperament first.
Frequently Asked Questions
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