History
The ancestry of the Bracco Italiano is somewhat of a mystery. Some people think they come from a blend of strong mastiffs and fast Egyptian dogs, while others argue they are related to traditional Italian hunting breeds. Although the idea of a mastiff and sighthound mix sounds like a story from a dog-themed comic book, the theory about local hunting dogs seems more credible, given their long history as skilled hunters. The true beginnings are unclear, but many experts believe they date back to the 4th or 5th century B.C., making them one of the oldest breeds that point. Initially, they were used to drive animals into nets for their human companions. As hunting methods evolved, the Bracco Italiano adapted, becoming a versatile hunter that could flush out, point at, and even retrieve game. They made their first appearance in the United States during the 1990s.
Ideal Owner
The perfect owner for a Bracco Italiano is someone who shares their lively nature, like active families, people who love the outdoors, or anyone who likes to play fetch. It’s important to give them lots of exercise and activities to keep their playful side satisfied. Although they are eager to learn, their independent nature means that patient and skilled owners will do best with them. Having some dog training experience is helpful, but what really matters is being ready to give them lots of love and joy—they will give it back even more.
