Bracco Italiano
The Bracco Italiano is described by the AKC as intelligent, affectionate, enthusiastic, a member of the Sporting Group, originally from Italy.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 21-27 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 55-90 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Intelligent / Affectionate / Enthusiastic [1] |
| AKC group | Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | Italy [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 136 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Bracco is a moderate- to high-energy breed that requires daily exercise and mental stimulation. This can be accomplished by running free in a safe, enclosed space or by scheduled exercises such as daily jogs. At least 30 minutes of exercise per day is needed, but more is preferred. [1]
Grooming
Bracchi Italiani are easy to groom. Their short coats require minimal care and their long ears require routine cleaning to minimize the risk of ear infections. Beyond that, the occasional bath will keep them clean and looking their best. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Bracco is an overall healthy breed, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, eye anomalies such as entropion, ectropion, and cataracts, and kidney disorders such as renal amyloidosis. To avoid orthopedic stresses on their fast-growing bodies, Bracco puppies should be fed a balanced food and should not be run on hard surfaces such as on concrete or perform repeated high-impact exercises until at least one year of age. Check the Bracco's long, pendulous ears for ear infections, and use a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner once or twice weekly to keep the ear clean and dry to prevent infections. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hips: X-rays evaluated by OFA or PennHip, Elbows: X-rays evaluated by OFA, OFA Eyes, Kidney Health Testing. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Bracco Italiano in 2022. [1]
- It ranked No. 136 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Italian Pointer.” [1]
- The AKC lists Italy as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hips: X-rays evaluated by OFA or PennHip, Elbows: X-rays evaluated by OFA. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 4/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 4/5)
Common questions
How long do Bracco Italianos live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-14 years.
How big does a Bracco Italiano get?
AKC breed information lists height 21-27 inches and weight 55-90 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Bracco Italiano?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Bracco Italiano, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.