Bracco Italiano

Feeding a Bracco Italiano properly is crucial for maintaining their athletic build and preventing health issues, particularly bloat. These active dogs need high-quality nutrition that matches their energy levels and supports their robust frame.

Choose a premium dog food that meets international standards - look for products that clearly state they provide complete and balanced nutrition. For working or highly active Braccos, consider performance or sport formulas that provide the extra energy these athletes need. Australian owners who use their dogs for hunting or intense exercise should discuss these specialized diets with their vet.

The feeding schedule is just as important as what you feed. Adult Braccos should eat twice daily rather than one large meal, while puppies need three smaller meals to fuel their growth. This structured approach helps prevent bloat, a serious concern for deep-chested breeds. Always use slow-feeder bowls to prevent gulping, and avoid elevated feeding bowls which can actually increase bloat risk.

Timing matters too - avoid exercise immediately before or after meals. In Australia's hot climate, this also means planning meal times around the cooler parts of the day when your dog is more likely to eat comfortably.

Portion control is essential as some Braccos can be prone to weight gain. The amount varies based on age, weight, and activity level - a weekend warrior will need different portions than a working hunting dog. Your vet can help determine the right amount for your individual dog.

Supplements may be beneficial, particularly glucosamine for joint support, omega fatty acids for coat health, and probiotics for digestion. Some vets recommend antioxidants for kidney health support, given the breed's predisposition to kidney issues.

Here's some great news for busy Australian families - the Bracco Italiano is refreshingly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, dense coat makes them one of the easier breeds to keep looking smart, which is perfect for our laid-back lifestyle.

A weekly brush is typically all you need to keep their coat healthy and remove loose hair. They shed moderately year-round, so that weekly session will help keep your furniture relatively hair-free. During spring in Australia, you might want to increase brushing to twice weekly as they shed their winter coat.

The real grooming focus should be on those beautiful long ears. In Australia's humid conditions, particularly in Queensland and the Northern Territory, ear infections can be a real problem for drop-eared breeds. Clean their ears once or twice weekly with a veterinarian-recommended cleaner, being careful not to push anything deep into the ear canal. After beach trips or swimming sessions - which many Braccos love - always dry their ears thoroughly.

Regular nail trims are important for these active dogs, especially if they're not wearing them down naturally on hard surfaces. In suburban Australia where many dogs primarily walk on grass and soft surfaces, monthly nail trims are usually necessary.

Don't forget dental care - brush their teeth regularly to prevent dental disease. This is particularly important as they age, and many Australian vets now recommend daily brushing if possible.

The occasional bath will keep them looking and smelling fresh, but don't overdo it as this can strip natural oils from their coat. After muddy adventures in the bush or sandy beach runs, a good rinse might be all they need.

Their eyes don't require special care, but give them a quick check during your weekly grooming session for any redness or discharge.

If you're considering a Bracco Italiano, be prepared to embrace an active lifestyle - these dogs are not content being couch potatoes. They're moderate to high-energy athletes who need at least 30 minutes of proper exercise daily, though more is definitely preferred. Think of them as your new fitness buddy who'll never let you skip a workout.

These intelligent dogs thrive on having a job to do. While they were bred for hunting, you don't need to be a hunter to keep your Bracco happy. They excel at dog sports like agility, tracking, and dock diving - activities that are increasingly popular in Australian dog sports clubs. Many owners find success with nose work, which taps into their natural scenting abilities and provides excellent mental stimulation.

Training a Bracco requires patience and consistency. They're eager to please but can have an independent streak, so positive reinforcement works best. They respond beautifully to praise and treats, but harsh corrections will shut them down completely. Early socialisation is crucial - expose them to different people, places, and situations while they're young.

In Australia's climate, timing your exercise is important. During hot summers, particularly in places like Perth or Adelaide, exercise early morning or late evening. These dogs love water, so beach swims or river walks are perfect for hot days. They also make excellent hiking companions for trips to places like the Grampians or Blue Mountains.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and training sessions help prevent boredom-related behaviours like excessive barking or destructive chewing. Remember, a tired Bracco is a well-behaved Bracco - but they need both physical and mental exhaustion to be truly content.