Bracco Italiano vs Old Danish Pointer

Choosing between Bracco Italiano and Old Danish Pointer? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Bracco Italiano is the higher-energy of the two, while Old Danish Pointer is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Bracco Italiano vs Old Danish Pointer: full comparison

TraitBracco ItalianoOld Danish Pointer
SizeLargeLarge
Energy levelHighMedium
TrainabilityMediumHigh
FriendlinessHighHigh
Good with childrenHighVery High
Grooming needsLowLow
SheddingMediumMedium
BarkingLowLow
ProtectivenessLowLow
AdaptabilityMediumMedium
Typical lifespan12 years12 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Size and living space

The Bracco Italiano is a big, substantial dog that does best in a larger home with room to stretch out, ideally with access to a yard. By comparison, the Old Danish Pointer is a big, substantial dog that does best in a larger home with room to stretch out, ideally with access to a yard. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Bracco Italiano demands substantial daily activity, from long walks to hard play. The Old Danish Pointer wants a decent walk or two each day and some playtime. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Bracco Italiano asks for a light brush once or twice a week and sheds moderately, with heavier blowouts as the seasons turn. The Old Danish Pointer asks for a light brush once or twice a week and sheds moderately, with heavier blowouts as the seasons turn. Grooming upkeep is similar for both.

Temperament, training and family life

The Bracco Italiano picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, keeps fairly quiet, barking occasionally and is reliably good with children and a solid family choice. The Old Danish Pointer takes to training fast and works willingly, keeps fairly quiet, barking occasionally and is renowned for its patience and gentleness with children. On guarding instinct, Bracco Italiano shows limited protectiveness and is friendly to callers, whereas Old Danish Pointer shows limited protectiveness and is friendly to callers.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Bracco Italiano if you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure.

Choose the Old Danish Pointer if you want the more child-friendly companion, you want an easier dog to train, or you want a calmer, lower-energy companion.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Bracco Italiano or the Old Danish Pointer better for families with children?
The Old Danish Pointer tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialization.
Which sheds more, the Bracco Italiano or the Old Danish Pointer?
The Bracco Italiano and Old Danish Pointer shed a similar amount (medium).
Which is easier to train, the Bracco Italiano or the Old Danish Pointer?
The Old Danish Pointer is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.
Is Bracco Italiano or Old Danish Pointer bigger?
Bracco Italiano and Old Danish Pointer are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, Bracco Italiano or Old Danish Pointer?
Both bark a similar amount (low).
Which is better for apartment living, Bracco Italiano or Old Danish Pointer?
For apartment or apartment living, Old Danish Pointer has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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