Gun Dog Breeder Reviews for J & As Brittanys - Bird Dogs
Testimonials (27) | Back to J & As Brittanys - Bird Dogs
Submitted by: Monica Homer on Nov 13, 2012
I can't even begin to put into words what an amazing experience we have had with John and Ann. We were brought together about 4 years ago when I tried to track down my aging Brittany's bloodline. A Google search led me to Maine, where John and Ann had my dog's 1/2 niece! Upon navigating their website I was astonished at the level of compassion and love for the dog that was both given and received as displayed through words and photos. Not only did I discover that their values and general philosophy regarding dogs and breeding lined up with mine, but that these dogs are truly their Treasures (as one is so aptly named). We joyfully received our little Wilson in March of 2011 and it has been the perfect adventure ever since. Although we have our dogs purely to love, it is clear that Wilson's natural ability is keen and that he comes from a fine line of gun dogs. His gait exemplifies the utmost confidence and willingness to please. John and Ann have a required reading for all of their new owners regardless of prior experience. This alone showed the care and concern they have with placing their dogs in the proper environment. They invest in each and every puppy from the moment of conception. Each whelping mother receives treatment that most human moms would be jealous of including nursing mother's pudding, and massages! Then, there are the puppies....oh the puppies. They are busy from day one! First, it is working hard on eating and growing strong. Next it is socialization with each other and their very special human helpers. Each and every puppy responds so positively to human touch because they have learned they receive love that way. Next, it is on to the noise sensitivity training as they begin to ready themselves for the next stage in development. The litters are gently exposed to a variety of different sounds from doorbells to toilets flushing etc. Lastly comes the puppy aptitude tests in which all puppies feel success:) I could go on and on, but our Wilson enjoys an active life with his Brittany friend Brandy. He is incredibly intelligent and intuitive. Running in the yard, long walks along the ocean, fetching the tennis ball, and dog treat puzzles keep him stimulated and happy. Agility will be our next focus as we get some more basic training down. It is at nighttime when his true "personality" comes out. He just wants to be held like a baby so he can cuddle up under the covers (head and all) and sleep for the night. If you are interested in a dog from J and A's, I can tell you that it needs to be apparent that this dog is not only a gundog, but a family member. You must be a clear Brittany person who loves, understands, and fosters the beauty of the breed. I have never seen, much less heard of breeders that put this level of committment into their life's ministry! I feel HONORED that my family and I were chosen to receive our dear Wilson, because we can't imagine our lives without him. Thank you John and Ann. We will be repeat clients for as long as you are breeding, because you clearly breed the best.
Submitted by: Greg Palman on Oct 16, 2012
Lost my second Brittany to old age 2 years ago October. Found J and A Brittany online and began a correspondence with Ann that resulted in my acquiring my third Brittany the following March. The care and concern exhibited by John and Ann in the breeding and care of their litter was amazing to behold. The pups were raised in an active environment exposing them to ever more challenging situations and new experiences as the grew older. My dog, Avon, has turned out to be an active, well adjusted, inquisitive little girl and is an outstanding bird dog in her second season. She has style, drive and grace.. All these things can be traced back to careful breeding and good rearing. I can't think of a better couple to acquire a Brittany field dog/family member from! Greg
Submitted by: Debra Fogle on Oct 13, 2012
The J&A Brittany owned by Ann and John Short has been a wonderful experience! Our girl is now 17 months old and when we drove to Maine from Ohio to bring her home she was 8 weeks old.Maggie Rose has changed my life...she is such a joy and I look forward to many adventures with her! Maggie is being trained in Agility which we both enjoy very much! My future goal with Maggie is to pass the Canine Therapy Test so she can bring joy to other people. Working with Ann and John was a dream come true. They are wonderful, informative, always "on call" if you have a problem, and best of all have become good friends! I would highly recommend them to anyone!
Submitted by: Justin Paynter on Oct 11, 2012
I spent two years trying to find the right breeder of a Brittany and finally found John and Ann. I was looking for a gun dog as well as a family pet, and I have both. I have nothing but great things to say about J & A's Brittanys. I haven't been out many times hunting yet, but each time out my pup Annie is learning how to hunt better through her own intelligence. I can see her working different areas in a different manner, quartering on her own, and smelling the air to find likely areas rather than just nose to the ground blindly. What I have been most impressed with is the staunchness of her points. She points from about 10-15 feet away, and doesn't budge. Even when she was on point for a three or more minutes she didn't creep, and she hasn't flushed a bird yet, only pointed. It's a very proud feeling to have one of the best dogs in the fields I have been hunting, even with her young age. I'm constantly amazed with what she can do and I couldn't be happier with her in terms of a gun dog or a spoiled bed sleeping mushball family dog.

John and Ann are very particular about who buys their dogs, requiring a visit to their house before a dog goes to you. They are always available with any questions you need answered, and love to share the growing of the dogs. Their family approach has brought many of the owners together as friends, and they build a community of Brittany owners. They not only breed great dogs, but they try to further the breed and breed awareness. Top notch all the way!
Submitted by: karen carson on Oct 10, 2012
We have a one year old male Brittany that we purchased from J & As Brittanys. There is not enough room here to tell you about this member of our family. Magnum is amazing. His personality is one that everyone falls in love with. He is kind, gentle, loving, and VERY eager to please. His hunting instinct is just as amazing as his personality. He spent this past weekend at hunting camp. Magnum is recovering from a serious injury (he was hit by a car in April). Because of this, he has had little to no training. Well, this past weekend he was pointing and retreaving birds almost as well as a seasoned hunter!
I would HIGHLY recomend J & As Brittanys to anyone. They are more then a breader, they are an amazing family. A family that provides amazing dogs.
Submitted by: Dave & Nicole Dube on Oct 10, 2012
We got Moxie from John and Ann in March of 2011 and we couldn't be more pleased with her over all development - mentally, physically, in the field and at home. She's highly intelligent, eager to learn, lots of stamina and has no fears.....due to the Shorts properly socializing her early on. John and Ann have been a valuable resource by offering support with questions, hands-on field instruction, and by providing multiple resources on their website. We highly reccommend them as responsible & reputable breeders.
Submitted by: Marilyn Gilman on Oct 09, 2012
You might seek out your next Brittany from J & A’s Brittanys for their high quality breeding program. But I found that their philosophy struck a chord with me, because Ann and John Short do not just breed accessories for the hunter; they breed loving companions which also happen to be talented in the field, show ring, agility course – essentially, Brittanys with lots of potential. These people know the science, art, and heart of breeding Brittanys. Be prepared to undergo a thorough screening process as this family strives to place each puppy in loving and active households, with priority – but not exclusivity - given to hunters. Conformation, hunting ability, and temperament are paramount in their breeding program. Our 8-week-old Brittany pup entered our home happy, healthy, confidant, socialized, crate trained, and sleeping through the night. She is also a very good-looking Brittany, with beautiful markings and graceful comportment. These are the characteristics you can expect from a J & A’s puppy.
Ann and John devote an enormous amount of time to each puppy in every litter. Their work is impressive, and their love for their dogs (and your dog) is unparalleled. Ann & John are always eager to hear news and see pictures of our Brittany and her achievements. Of course our next Brittany will come from J & A’s Brittanys. We love that crew! Check out Ann’s blog at their web site. You’ll see what I mean about quality.
Submitted by: Helen & Hiram Connell on Oct 02, 2012
Tenzing
Tenzing came from Ann & John Short’s Jack & Molly Litter of Jan 2010. Ann & John did a great job of raising these puppies through their first 8 weeks. The Shorts let the puppies climb and play on different shaped objects such as tunnels, low walls and boxes.. John & Ann banged pots and pans at meal time so that the puppies would not be alarmed by loud noises.

Tenzing is loving, cute and loud, incredibly, energetic, intelligent and mischievious… all the characteristics of a wonderful Brittany. When he’s playing, he displays his glee with a fun happy face.

He’s a fantastic athlete. He runs through the woods like he owns them. He is easy to teach and is eager to learn new tricks. He is turning into a wonderful dog agility guy.
Submitted by: Peter Sipperly on Sep 28, 2012
We loved the interest our breeder showed in us and in matching the right pup with our needs and desires As far as I'm concerned, they found a perfect match. Additionally, our pup was very well socialized and people friendly when we picked him up at 10 weeks of age! Finally, he has a great nose, is smart and is an eager learner wanting to please both at home and in the field! We just love having him as a great little guy and a wonderful companion!
Submitted by: Robert Poulin on Sep 28, 2012
I own Two J&A Brittanys and would recommend them to anyone interested in a dog that hunts hard. Easy to train! The dogs have the physical stamina to adjust their hunting style to the cover/conditions. Great with the family and easy to raise in house setting.
Submitted by: Frank Ouellette on Sep 27, 2012
I got my Brittany Roxie 5 years ago she is the easiest going dog I have trained. Roxie reached a junior champ in field trials in only four trials. She was always eager to train and doesn't try and take off for long runs on her own. Due to no fault of Roxie's, I am unable to field trial her onto Seniors Trials due to my health problems. Roxie is a great bird dog and loving companion. John and Ann are great people and love their dogs and meet with perspective owners and only let the dog go to people they feel would give them a good and loving. I think it says volume about them being loving dog breeders.
Submitted by: Wayne & Barbara Richards on Sep 27, 2012
If you desire a Brittany for hunt, show, or as a beautiful pet, from a very caring couple devoted to the breed, John and Ann extend themselves in a rare way. Their dogs love the hunt.
Submitted by: Denise levesque on Nov 26, 2010
I cannot say enough praise about J&As Brittanys! I am a first time brittany owner. John and Ann were a great resource for raising our new addition but also helped us to obtain literature for training the dog to hunt in the upcoming months. It is evident they have an undying passion for raising amazing dogs and it shows in how the deal with there customers and the puppies they produce. I am now the proud owner of a beautiful brittany named Remy who does nothing but bring our family joy. John and Ann will forever be a part of our extended family and we are thankful to have found them as our breeder.

Sincerely,
Denise Levesque
Submitted by: jean m. yarbrough on Nov 24, 2010
Dick and I are just back from a hunt in NH, where Sammie was magnificent. It was a blustery day, but she scented beautifully, pointed, flushed, and retrieved to perfection. On top of that, she is so affectionate and winning that everyone who meets her loves her. She is biddable and outgoing. A difficult combination, and we are simply delighted. At two, she still curls up every night on the "blankie" we brought her home in, hand-knitted and presented with love from John and Ann. We could not be happier.
Submitted by: Helen Connell on Nov 22, 2010
Tenzing, a J & As Brittany, is 10 months old. He is our 3rd Brittany and is very intelligent, has high energy, is a tremendous tease and a special buddy. We are training in dog agility. All the instructors who have been Tenzing's teachers are extremely impressed with his abilities.
John & Ann brought Tenzing and his siblings up with lots of care and as much training as they could do during the puppies first 8 weeks. They introduced the puppies to lots of noises during their feedings. They helped house break them. They let the puppies climb over and thru blocks, tunnels, and other obstacles. All this training was evident when Tenzing arrived at our house.
Submitted by: Denis & Tiffany Doucette on Nov 16, 2010
John and Ann were so wonderful to work with from the moment we contacted them just to inquire about getting a puppy. They are very selective and take a great deal of care through the whole process of breeding puppies to placing them in new homes. You can tell that they are truly dedicated to bettering the breed. Our puppy, Riley Cone, is everything we hoped for and more. He is not only a great bird dog, but he is also a member of our family. He has a wonderful disposition; he gets along with anyone and everyone. When the time comes for us to get another puppy, we will be going back to J & A's Brittanys because you definitely get what you pay for and their dogs are worth every penny.
Submitted by: Steve Stepanian on Nov 16, 2010
We met John & Ann four years ago and have stayed in touch ever since.We attend field trials, Brittany fun days, hunt tests and stop by quite often to see the new litters, John & Ann are not just your average Brittany breeder they've become great friends who we always look forward to seeing. Now that I've become more involved with other Brittany people I realize just how far John & Ann go to make sure their Brittany's are above and beyond any other Brittany and how they make sure their Brittany's are going to be adopted by a family that's going to love and care for them all their lives.
Submitted by: scott ballentine on Nov 16, 2010
What a fabulous experience we had with J & A's Brittanys about 5 1/2 years ago! Crystal is a family dog, who is lovable, loyal and gentle. She is an absolute beauty...her markings are gorgeous. People stop us all the time to tell us how beautiful she is. John and Ann keep in touch with us, always enjoying updates and pictures on Crystal's life. We also join them every year for Brittany day, which is a great opportunity to meet others who were lucky enough to buy a Brittany from the Shorts. They love what they do...they love the breed and make sure their puppies go to loving homes that are a perfect fit for everyone involved! We are truly blessed that they have come into our lives.
Submitted by: Jim and Lori Turner on Nov 15, 2010
We have been fortunate enough to come across Ann and John(J&As Brittanys), they by far are the best and most reputable breeders we have ever come across-we have two beautiful Brittany girls from their litters(one of them just receiving their NAVDHA prize 1-she turned a year in October 2010, and our other girl will be a year end of January 2011-we expect her to receive her NAVDHA prize 1 this spring) and we will be acquiring one more from them hopefully this Spring. With ease (and from experience) I can say their dogs are every bit what they're suppose to be and could not be taken care of better!
Submitted by: Peggy Strid on Nov 15, 2010
I received my Chrissy a little over a year ago from J & A's Brittanys. She is the most greatest friend! She is so loving and loves to cuddle. She loves the outdoors and is a great hunter! John and Ann were great to work with and very thorough. I would recommend J & A's Brittanys to evryone who wants quality in a breed, but also a best friend!
Submitted by: Pam Cooper on Nov 15, 2010
He wanted a hunter and I wanted a pet. So we did lots of looking before we settled on a pup from John and Ann. Casper is so much more than either of us imagined and has fit right into our "pack". This was her first hunting season and, at age 1, she performed beautifully, outdoing the older two. She's smart as a whip and just completed her Advanced Obedience class. But at home she's a snuggler and has captured my heart.
We've kept track of several of the other pups from her litter and, exceptional as we think our dog is, they're all shining stars. Thanks Ann and John, for all the extra time, training, and love that you've put into these dogs. I would recommend you to any of my friends and we'll be back when we're ready for our next Brittany.
Submitted by: Gregg Armitage on Nov 15, 2010
I have a one year old female that I could not be happier with. J & As Brittanys take their responsibilities as breeders very serious. They also went out of the way to help me with the training to make her first year of hunting very sucessful.
Submitted by: Vic & Lydia Reinfelds on Jul 30, 2009
Our Brittany, Jessie, showed all of the traits of good breeding as a pup, and now three years later, has become an excellent field dog and a wonderful companion at home. We frequently hunt Jessie along side other dogs such as labs and springers, and she clearly demonstrates the superior traits that are part of her bloodline. While spirited in the field, she has a gentle disposition and loves the company of children and adults. She is quick to learn new commands and adjusted well to a rigorous training routine. She is equally comfortable in a kennel or the house, however prefers to sleep on her bed next to ours! Our thanks to Ann and John for all of the hard work that it took to breed such a fine Brittany.
Submitted by: Our Customers on Jul 28, 2009
Submitted by: Darren and Keysha Clukey on May 11, 2007
We picked up "beanie" our L/W male last summer and to say it was a pleasure is an understatement. John and Ann were wonderful and took the time to get to us and our son Hunter! Beanie has exceptional disposition and hunting instinct. He is our second son! Thanks so much!
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Submitted by: Donna & George Pottle on Apr 08, 2007
We purchased 2 liver and white males (Shogun and Vegas) from John and Ann two years ago and it was the smartest decision we ever made. These dogs are the loves of our lives. John and Ann have been there every step of the way, giving pointers and suggestions. In fact, they got us interested in field trialing and Shogun took 2 back-to-back first places as well as a third at his first field trial last fall. Vegas took a 4th - Vegas has a little more training to do. We will always stick with the Brittany breed and we'll be sticking with John and Ann also as they are 2 very special people with exceptional dogs.
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Submitted by: Paul & Sharon Trudel on Apr 04, 2007
We truly cannot say enough good things about our experience with J&A's Brittanys or of Ann and John. We inquired early on in 2006, months before a litter was even planned, and we signed on. Ann & John followed up frequently and kept us fully informed through the whole breeding, pregnancy, birthing and initial training processes. To say we were impressed would be an understatement! Not only did we get a fantastic companion in our O&W male Cody, but we were able to experience first hand the outstanding job J&A's does promoting the breed and the dedication they put into their operation. We haven't once regretted our decision and have bragging about J&A's ever since - THANK YOU ANN & JOHN!
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Submitted by: Maryann Day on Apr 02, 2007
We got our Brittany from J & A's Brittanys two years ago. Boomer our L/W male has been a great addition to our family. He is a great hunting dog and most of all he is gentle and loving with our two kids Callum who is 4 and Alana 19months. Both John an Ann have been great to work with and have been available to answer any questions we have had. Would definitely get another dog from them and have recommended them to friends that want an excellent hunting/companion dog.
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Submitted by: Bob and Nancy Perusse on Mar 30, 2007
Picking the right breeder is as important as choosing the right breed, in our case a Brittany pup. We found the folks at J&A's Brittanys to be extremely devoted to the breed and very helpful throughout the selection and socialization process. They remain as great a resource "after the sale" as they were before it.
Our 8 month old female Brittany pup Daisy is healthy, well adjusted, totally conforming to standard, intelligent and has already shown to have deep hunting instincts. Even our Vet commented on her overall health and temperament and inquired about the kennel we got her from.
Keep up the good work Ann and John, Daisy is the best dog that's ever owned us.
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Submitted by: David Flibbert on Mar 28, 2007
Picked "Acorn" up last summer and had her pointing pheasant in October. Never saw such natural hunting ability before. Stays close and will hold point till flush. She also loves to be close and petted. Interacts well with other dogs and is highly intelligent. Could not be happier with our choice of breeder and dog. Thanks Ann & John
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Submitted by: Jim and Julie Harris on Mar 27, 2007
We think John and Ann offer exceptional Brittanys. The dogs are highly intelligent, healthy, and have strong hunting instincts. We know they screen for potential health issues, and it's evident they maintain high standards in their breeding program. We lost our 13-year-old Brittany last May. We brought home an 8-week-old pup from J&A's Brittanys last September, and were impressed with her interest in birds even as an infant dog. She was properly socialized, had no fears, and adjusted well to her new home. She is very athletic, has lots of energy, LOVES to be outdoors, and pays attention to whatever the bird population is doing. She learns very quickly. She's turning into a beautiful girl, who seems to have the foundation for good field skills. We intend to build on that foundation. When we are ready for a second dog, we will go to J&A's Brittanys.
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Submitted by: Bill & Pam Judge on Mar 27, 2007
I bought my Brittany from J & A Brittany's early last fall and I couldn't be happier, I have a great dog. Ann was a great help picking out the pup, giving pointers about hierarchy in the liter she had noticed and back ground information on sire and bitch traits. They have been available to answer all questions and provide information or web-sites on every thing from feeding to obedience training, hunting trials and hunting training. I would recommend their kennel and dogs to anyone. John has just been elected as president of the Central Maine Brittney Club which shows me great interest and dedication to the Breed and more contacts to help anyone with their Brit.
Submitted by: Richard Morgan and Jean Yarbrough on Jul 28, 2009
It was a pleasure to work with Ann and John when we were looking for a Brittany puppy last year. They had lots of good suggestions for training Sammie, and we followed them all with great success. She shows a fine hunting instinct and we are looking forward her first bird season. She's a beautiful dog, and easy to live with.

Ann and John are always in our thoughts, as they gave Sammie a hand-knitted blanket when we brought her home. Every night Sammie takes it out of the corner and curls up on it under the table while we are having dinner.

Ann and John are not only conscientious breeders, they are wonderful people. It's no surprise that their dogs are first rate.
Submitted by: Steph Carver on Jul 28, 2009
I got my Brittany "Maggie" from John and Ann Short. She was about a year old and they chose not to breed her or continue her gun dog training because she could not reach the level of competition dogs they produce. Many breeders would have simply used her to breed more pups but they are truly dedicated to the breed and felt that was not the responsible thing to do. As a result, I was able to get Maggie as a pet and she is the most beautiful, well balanced dog I have ever seen. Her temperment is lovely and she has brought our family a lot of joy.

I highly reccommend them as caring and responsible breeders and I purchase another Brittany from them without hesitation.
Submitted by: Lbelange on Jul 28, 2009
J & A's Brittanys cannot be compared to any other breeder. They stand alone. They are exceptional in every aspect of what they do. Their pedigree lines, kennel facility and warm, friendly manner make you realize you made the right choice. From the very first moment we contacted them to present day, we have received more than we ever expected. We are currently awaiting our second Brittany pup. Our first Brittany is one and a half yrs old and we were so amazed and impressed, we immediately contacted John and Ann to be placed on a list for our second pup. Thank you John & Ann for loving this breed the way that you do and for nurturing such outstanding Brittanys.

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