Brittany vs Chihuahua

Which dog breed is right for you?

Brittany

Size
30–40 lbs, 18–21 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Energetic Happy Sensitive Agile

Chihuahua

Size
3–6 lbs, 5–8 in
Lifespan
14–16 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
Yes
Bold Charming Alert Devoted

About the Brittany

The Brittany — formerly known as the Brittany Spaniel — originated in the Brittany province of northwestern France, where it has been a prized bird dog since at least the 17th century. Standing 17.5–20.5 inches tall and weighing 30–40 pounds, the Brittany is a leggy, agile sporting dog with a compact build that belies its remarkable stamina. Their flat or wavy coat comes in orange-and-white or liver-and-white patterns, is moderate in length with some feathering, and requires only weekly brushing.

Temperament & Personality

Brittanys are eager, energetic, and sensitive — they are among the most biddable of the sporting breeds, responding enthusiastically to praise and positive training methods. They are excellent family dogs who adore children and get along well with other dogs, though they can be overwhelmed by harsh corrections or chaotic environments. Their hunting instinct remains strong, and they will point and flush birds naturally, making them dual-purpose companions for active families and hunters alike.

Pros

  • Highly trainable and eager to please — one of the easiest sporting breeds to work with
  • Excellent with children and other dogs, making them ideal family companions
  • Versatile hunting dog that points, flushes, and retrieves with natural talent
  • Moderate grooming needs with a relatively low-maintenance coat

Cons

  • Very high energy level — requires extensive daily exercise, ideally in open spaces
  • Sensitive temperament can lead to submissive urination or anxiety with harsh treatment
  • Not suited for sedentary households — without exercise, they become hyperactive and neurotic
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and canine discoid lupus erythematosus

If you lead an active lifestyle and want a devoted companion, explore adoptable Brittanys on Puplister today.

About the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the world's smallest dog breed, originating from the Mexican state of Chihuahua where ancestors of the breed were kept by the ancient Toltec civilization. Standing just 5–8 inches tall and weighing a mere 2–6 pounds, these tiny dogs come in smooth-coat and long-coat varieties with virtually every color and pattern combination imaginable. Despite their diminutive size, Chihuahuas carry themselves with a bold, terrier-like confidence that belies their fragile frame.

Temperament & Personality

Chihuahuas are fiercely devoted to one person — often forming an almost obsessive bond with their chosen human. They are alert, spirited, and surprisingly courageous, frequently standing up to dogs many times their size without hesitation. While they can be wonderful companions for older children who handle them gently, their small size and tendency toward snappiness make them a poor match for households with toddlers.

Pros

  • Perfect apartment dogs — minimal space and exercise requirements
  • Exceptionally long lifespan of 14–18 years, among the longest of any breed
  • Portable size makes them easy travel companions for on-the-go owners
  • Low food costs and minimal grooming needs — especially the smooth-coat variety

Cons

  • Prone to patellar luxation, heart murmurs, hydrocephalus, and dental overcrowding
  • Fragile bones — easily injured by falls, rough play, or being stepped on
  • Notoriously difficult to housebreak due to tiny bladders and stubborn temperament
  • Tendency toward excessive barking and aggression toward strangers if not properly socialized

Discover your perfect pint-sized companion — explore Chihuahuas looking for forever homes right here on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Brittany and a Chihuahua?
The Brittany is 30–40 lbs, 18–21 in sized while the Chihuahua is 3–6 lbs, 5–8 in sized. They differ in size (30–40 lbs, 18–21 in vs 3–6 lbs, 5–8 in), lifespan (12–14 years vs 14–16 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Brittany or Chihuahua?
Brittany is generally good with kids. Chihuahua is not typically good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Brittany or Chihuahua?
The Brittany has a lifespan of 12–14 years while the Chihuahua has a lifespan of 14–16 years.

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