The bracco italiano is the most popular native gundog in Italy, valued for its strong scenting and pointing instincts. Recognised since the Middle Ages, it is an ancient and dignified breed that was once the favourite of well-known aristocratic families.
It is a powerful dog with a deep chest, distinctive houndlike head, short glossy coat and stylish fast trot. Bred to hunt independently at a great distance, this dog requires plenty of space and exercise as well as structured training. Its gentle nature is considered good with children and other dogs, although it has a high prey drive towards smaller animals. At times boisterous and strong-willed, this dog requires patience and time to train.
In its homeland the bracco is used for rough shooting of fur and feather. Like other continental hunt point retrieve breeds it can be trained for many tasks in the UK, from rough and walked-up shooting to beating or picking up at driven shoots.