CEB-US Mission Statement Part 1 - Protecting and Promoting the Epagneul Breton: Why It Matters

If you own an Epagneul Breton, you’re already part of something special. But what exactly makes this breed unique — and how do we keep it that way?

The answer isn’t just tradition or breed standards. It’s about all of us — owners, breeders, hunters, and the club — working together to ensure future generations of Bretons remain the same versatile, loyal dogs we love today.

At CEB-US, our Mission Statement is the framework that guides this effort and connects the community with resources to protect the breed. The first and most foundational part is this:

"Protect and promote the Epagneul Breton breed by maintaining our breed's unique qualities and characteristics as developed for more than a century in France, the country of our breed's origin."

Let’s take a closer look at what that means — and why it still matters.

A Breed with Purpose and Identity

The EB has deep roots in the hunting fields of France. Dating back well over 100 years, it wasn’t influenced by passing trends — it was built through generations of breeders and hunters working together toward one purpose: a compact, agile gun dog. Its size, structure, temperament, and natural hunting instincts all reflect deliberate choices made to ensure function in the field.

The qualities that defined the breed standard a century ago are the same ones our community works to protect today. By testing, evaluating, and hunting our dogs, we’re helping ensure that balance, athleticism, keen nose, stylish point, and affectionate temperament remain hallmarks of the EB. Even details like coat, color, and the distinct “Breton” expression reflect a heritage that depends on our stewardship to carry forward.

Why the French Standard?

Choosing an Epagneul Breton is more than picking a bird dog — it’s joining a living tradition. The French standard isn’t about nostalgia or rigid rules; it’s a proven blueprint that has produced one of the most versatile and effective gun dogs in the world. By aligning with it, we ensure that the EB we know today remains the EB we’ll hand down tomorrow.

As a community, protecting that standard is not the responsibility of one breeder, one judge, or one club — it’s something we all do together. The role of CEB-US is to serve as a resource, providing opportunities, tools, and connections that help all of us measure our progress against the standard and keep improving as a community.

Your Hard Work Is Paying Off

The results of this collaboration are clearly visible. Thanks to the dedication of breeders, owners, and handlers, U.S. Bretons are earning consistent praise from European judges at our field trials and conformation shows. International judges point to our Bretons’ consistency in type, structure, and temperament true to the original standard. They also highlight the global respect our community has earned for its enthusiasm and commitment to French tradition. Just as importantly, they commend the balanced focus on both performance and conformation, which ensures our dogs excel in every arena.

Their message is clear: the work we’re doing together is making a difference. We’re not just holding the line — we’re building a reputation around the world for both the quality of our dogs and the passion of our community. For that, we thank each of you — your hard work and dedication are not going unnoticed by the CEB-US, nor by the international community that continues to recognize your efforts.

The Risks of Dilution

We cannot take this progress for granted. Without adherence to the breed standard, breeds lose predictability, health declines, purpose erodes, and the lines between breeds blur. The American Brittany and many other working breeds show how this happens — dividing into show and field camps, with different priorities that have led to physical and functional separation.

The Epagneul Breton must avoid this path. Our strength has always been versatility — dogs that excel in the show ring, in trials, and in the uplands on wild birds. That balance defines the breed and is what we risk losing if dilution or specialization takes hold.

Why This Matters to You

Our Bretons give us so much in the field and at home — working together as a community is how we give back to the breed. With the support of CEB-US, here’s how we can make a difference together:

• Support CEB-US, French-standard breeders who prioritize working ability, health, and temperament. [Breeder List]

• Train and hunt with your dog — giving them purpose while strengthening the breed’s reputation.

• Participate in TANs, trials, and shows with CEB-US guidance, building the data that shapes better breeding.

• Educate others when your EB is mistaken for another breed, helping preserve its distinct identity.

• Breed selectively and responsibly — with resources and mentorship available, every litter can strengthen the future.

• Take time to appreciate your Breton — their companionship, drive, and the memories you share are at the heart of why preservation matters.

Through collaboration, education, and shared commitment, we can ensure the Epagneul Breton remains true to its heritage while thriving in the generations to come.