CEB-US Mission Statement Part 4 - Safeguarding the Epagneul Breton’s Identity and Traditions (Points 4 & 5)

As we explore the next section of the CEB-US Mission Statement, we focus on two key pillars: preserving the Epagneul Breton’s distinct identity and providing the systems and resources our community needs to maintain that integrity. [Need to catch up on Parts 1, 2 or 3?] In this installment, we combine points 4 and 5 — two pillars that guide both the breed’s distinct identity and the systems we use to preserve and evaluate it with integrity:

• Continue to advance the separation of the Epagneul Breton breed from the American Brittany breed in the United States and abroad, and discourage and prevent cross-breeding between these two distinctly different breeds.

• Assist the United Kennel Club Inc. in promoting and encouraging participation in a system of Field Trials, Conformation Shows, and TANs (Natural Ability Tests) in North America, modeled as closely as possible after those held in Europe under the auspices of the F.C.I.

One of the founding purposes of CEB-US was to establish a clear distinction between the Epagneul Breton and the American Brittany in North America. Before 2002, both breeds were often grouped together simply as “Brittanys,” blurring important differences in type, temperament, and function.

Thanks to the vision and tireless dedication of our club’s founders and early members, CEB-US successfully advocated for the United Kennel Club to officially recognize the Epagneul Breton as its own breed — a milestone that not only safeguarded the breed’s history and established a consistent path forward, but also laid the foundation for today’s community to continue upholding the dog’s original dual-purpose style with the same passion and commitment.

While the American Brittany world has diverged into field and show lines, the Epagneul Breton community has remained unified in its commitment to producing balanced, capable dogs. By working together on thoughtful breeding, testing, and adherence to the European standard, the EB community keeps the breed true to its historical form and function.

Providing Resources for Meaningful Evaluation

Preserving breed integrity is about more than recognition — it’s about creating tools and systems that allow our community to evaluate, celebrate, and develop the breed in meaningful ways. CEB-US works behind the scenes to develop and maintain field trial and conformation systems tailored specifically to the Epagneul Breton.

Working with the United Kennel Club, CEB-US members helped design rules that reflect the breed’s hunting origins, adapted for North American venues while staying true to European standards. Each year, CEB-US brings international judges to the U.S. as a resource for our members, providing essential expertise to ensure evaluations remain true to the breed standard. These judges help maintain unbiased assessments and give breeders, owners, and judges a shared framework grounded in performance, style, and temperament.

We also recognize the accomplishments of Bretons in other venues — NAVHDA and beyond — but the UKC system provides a consistent benchmark rooted in the breed’s original purpose. By providing these resources, CEB-US allows the community to focus on what matters most: raising and showcasing Bretons that excel in the field and remain faithful to the breed’s legacy.

Why It Matters

CEB-US doesn’t just set standards — it provides the systems, guidance, and support that empower our community to carry the breed forward. The club’s role is to be a steady, behind-the-scenes partner, so breeders, owners, judges, and enthusiasts can continue doing the great work that keeps the Epagneul Breton vibrant, authentic, and ready for future generations.