Brittany Dog Breed: The Enchanting Versatility of the Agile Companion

 

Brittany dog breed, often referred to as the Brittany Spaniel, is an enchanting and versatile canine companion that has won the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide.

Renowned for its agility, intelligence, and affectionate nature, the Brittany breed has become a favorite choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the captivating world of the Brittany dog breed, exploring their origins, distinctive characteristics, temperament, care requirements, and more.

So, let’s embark on a journey to discover the many facets of this agile and captivating breed!

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Unraveling the Origins: A Journey Back in Time

The history of the Brittany dog breed is a captivating tale that takes us on a journey back in time to the picturesque region of Brittany in northwestern France.

To truly understand the essence of this agile and versatile breed, we must delve into its rich and fascinating origins.

Ancient Ancestry: A Blend of Spaniel-Type Dogs

The roots of the Brittany breed can be traced back to the 17th century when its development was heavily influenced by various spaniel-type dogs.

These early canines were skilled hunters, adept at tracking and retrieving small game, such as birds and rabbits. The breed’s ancestors were prized for their exceptional hunting instincts and unwavering loyalty to their human companions.

From Bird Dogs to Sporting Companions

Over the centuries, breeders in Brittany honed the unique qualities of these canine companions, refining their traits to excel in hunting and sporting activities.

The Brittany’s agility, endurance, and keen sense of smell made them sought-after bird dogs among hunters. Their ability to “point” or freeze when they sensed game in the field became a distinguishing feature, setting them apart from other hunting breeds.

Recognition and Standardization

The Brittany dog breed’s popularity grew steadily, and by the mid-19th century, it had earned recognition as a distinct breed in France. In 1907, the Société Centrale Canine, the French national kennel club, officially recognized the Brittany breed.

The first breed standard was established, ensuring uniformity in appearance and temperament among Brittany dogs.

The Journey to America

As Brittany’s reputation as an exceptional hunting and sporting dog spread beyond France, it caught the attention of sportsmen in the United States.

In the early 20th century, American enthusiasts began importing Brittany dogs to enrich their hunting experiences. The breed’s adaptability to various terrains and its amiable nature endeared it to American hunters and families alike.

Name Evolution: From Brittany Spaniel to Brittany

Initially referred to as the Brittany Spaniel due to its ancestry with spaniel-type dogs, the breed’s name was eventually simplified to “Brittany” in the United States.

This change reflected the breed’s unique qualities that set it apart from traditional Spaniels, solidifying its identity as an independent and distinctive breed.

Modern-Day Recognition and Popularity

Today, the Brittany dog breed continues to captivate hearts around the world with its charm, versatility, and unwavering loyalty.

It has earned a prominent place in the American Kennel Club (AKC) sporting group and has become a beloved companion to countless families and outdoor enthusiasts.

The breed’s recognition and popularity continue to grow, as more people discover the joy of sharing their lives with this agile and enchanting canine companion.

In essence, the Brittany dog breed’s origins are steeped in a rich tapestry of history and tradition, weaving together the skillful hunters of Brittany’s past with the devoted and spirited companions of the present.

Their remarkable journey from humble beginnings to international recognition is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and their four-legged friends.

Today, Brittany stands tall as a breed that embodies the best of both worlds – a skilled sporting dog and a cherished family companion.

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Distinctive Physical Characteristics: The Brittany’s Unique Appearance

One look at a Brittany dog, and you’ll be captivated by its distinctive physical features that set it apart from other breeds. From its elegant build to its expressive eyes, Brittany’s appearance is a testament to its versatility and charm.

Medium-Sized and Compact Build

The Brittany is a medium-sized dog with a well-proportioned and compact build. Its sturdy frame and balanced proportions make it an agile and nimble companion in the field.

Despite its moderate size, the Brittany exudes strength and grace, showcasing the athleticism that has made it a favorite among hunters and sports enthusiasts.

Elegant Coat and Color Variations

One of the breed’s most striking features is its luxurious coat, which is dense, flat, and of medium length. Brittany’s coat comes in a beautiful array of colors and patterns, adding to its visual appeal.

Common coat colors include orange and white, liver and white, black and white, and tricolor combinations. The coat’s combination of colors and patterns creates a captivating and unique appearance for each individual dog.

Distinctive “Eagle Eye” Gaze

When you meet a Brittany, you’ll be drawn to its expressive eyes that seem to hold a world of intelligence and curiosity. The breed’s oval-shaped eyes, often referred to as the “eagle eye” gaze, are medium-sized and set slightly obliquely.

This characteristic gives the Brittany an alert and attentive expression, reflecting its keen hunting instincts and unwavering focus.

Ears: Set High and Triangular

Brittany’s ears are a defining feature that adds to its charm. Set high on the head, the breed’s ears are short, triangular, and slightly rounded at the tips.

This ear shape not only enhances the dog’s alert appearance but also serves a functional purpose in the field, as the ears help in locating the source of sounds during hunting activities.

Tail: Naturally Short or Docked

The Brittany’s tail is naturally short, reaching about four inches in length. In some regions, tail docking was historically practiced for hunting and safety reasons, but this practice is becoming less common today.

Regardless of tail length, Brittany’s tail is carried in a jaunty and animated manner, reflecting its lively and spirited personality.

Stance and Movement: Graceful and Purposeful

When in motion, Brittany’s movements are a sight to behold. With a graceful and purposeful gait, the breed covers the ground with agility and efficiency.

Its athletic build allows for quick turns and precise maneuvers, making it a top-notch sporting dog that can navigate challenging terrains with ease.

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Temperament: Energetic, Intelligent, and Loving

The Brittany dog breed’s charm goes beyond its physical appearance, as its temperament is equally captivating.

From its boundless energy to its keen intelligence and affectionate nature, Brittany’s personality makes it a beloved companion for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Energetic and Sporting Enthusiast

One of the defining traits of Brittany is its boundless energy and enthusiasm for outdoor activities. Bred as a versatile sporting dog, Brittany thrives in the field, displaying an unyielding passion for hunting and retrieving game.

Its agility, speed, and endurance make it an ideal partner for active individuals who enjoy hiking, running, and various sports.

This energetic nature also means that Brittany requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and content.

Intelligent and Quick Learner

Brittany’s intelligence is highly regarded among dog enthusiasts. Known for being a quick learner, this breed is eager to please its owners and excels in obedience training.

Its sharp mind and receptiveness to training make it a favorite in competitive obedience and agility trials. Brittany owners often find joy in engaging their dogs in mentally stimulating activities, as the breed thrives on mental challenges and learning new tricks.

Affectionate and Loyal

Beyond its sporting prowess and intelligence, Brittany’s loving and affectionate nature endears it to all who have the pleasure of knowing one. This breed forms strong bonds with its family members and is especially gentle and patient with children.

Brittany’s affectionate demeanor makes it an excellent family dog, as it enjoys spending quality time with its loved ones and seeks to be an integral part of family activities.

Its loyalty and devotion to its human companions create a strong and lasting bond that is cherished by both dog and owner.

Sociable and Friendly

Brittany is naturally sociable and friendly, making it a welcoming presence in any social setting. With a well-balanced temperament, this breed is typically good with other dogs and pets, fostering harmonious relationships within multi-pet households.

Additionally, Brittany’s friendly disposition extends to strangers, making it an amiable companion in social gatherings and public spaces.

Adaptable and Versatile

Brittany’s versatility shines through in its adaptability to various lifestyles and living environments. While it thrives in the countryside and enjoys outdoor adventures, the breed is also content living in urban settings, provided its exercise and mental needs are met.

Brittany’s ability to adapt to different circumstances makes it a popular choice for families living in diverse environments.

Playful and Mischievous

Brittany’s playful and mischievous side adds a touch of lightheartedness to its personality. This breed’s playful antics and vivacious spirit bring joy and laughter to its family’s lives.

Whether engaging in a game of fetch, exploring new scents during a walk, or simply goofing around, Brittany’s playful nature ensures there’s never a dull moment with this spirited companion.

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Agile Athletes: Unrivaled Hunting and Sporting Skills

When it comes to hunting and sporting prowess, the Brittany dog breed stands head and shoulders above the rest.

Renowned for its exceptional agility, speed, and keen sense of smell, the Brittany has earned its place as an unrivaled athlete in the world of hunting and sporting activities.

Natural Hunting Instincts

Brittany’s hunting heritage dates back to its origins as a versatile gundog. Bred for hunting birds such as quail, pheasant, and grouse, this breed possesses an innate hunting instinct that is deeply ingrained in its DNA.

From an early age, Brittany puppies display a fascination with scents and a natural desire to track and point game, a behavior known as “birdiness.”

This inherent drive to hunt and work closely with their human companions makes Brittany an exceptional hunting partner.

Pointing and Retrieving Skills

One of Brittany’s most remarkable skills is its ability to “point” game. When a Brittany senses the presence of game birds, it freezes in a distinctive stance, known as the “point,” to indicate the bird’s location to its handler.

This pointing behavior is a testament to the breed’s acute sense of smell and keen instincts, which enable it to locate and alert its human hunting partner to the presence of hidden game.

Furthermore, Brittany’s versatility extends beyond pointing, as it is also an adept retriever. After a successful point and flush, the Brittany fearlessly retrieves downed birds for its handler, showcasing its exceptional retrieving skills.

This combination of pointing and retrieving abilities makes the Brittany a valuable asset in both upland and waterfowl hunting scenarios.

Agility and Speed in the Field

Brittany’s athletic build and agile nature enable it to navigate diverse terrains with ease.

Whether traversing through dense brush, crossing open fields, or maneuvering along riverbanks, the breed’s nimbleness and dexterity make it a proficient and adaptable hunting companion.

Its powerful legs and quick reflexes allow it to cover ground swiftly, making it an asset when tracking fast-moving game birds.

Endurance and Stamina

As a sporting dog, the Brittany is known for its endurance and stamina. These dogs are capable of maintaining a high level of activity for extended periods, making them well-suited for long days in the field.

Whether hunting upland game or participating in competitive field trials, Brittany’s unwavering stamina ensures it can perform at peak levels throughout the day.

Versatility in Sporting Activities

Beyond hunting, Brittany’s athletic abilities make it excel in various sporting activities.

From agility competitions to flyball and dock diving, this breed’s eagerness to participate and its ability to excel in different sports have earned it recognition in the world of canine sports.

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Family Bonds: Affectionate and Loyal Companions

Beyond their remarkable hunting and athletic abilities, Brittany dogs are known for forming strong family bonds and being affectionate and loyal companions.

Their loving nature and devotion to their human families make them cherished members of the household and beloved friends to people of all ages.

Gentle and Patient with Children

One of the endearing qualities of the Brittany breed is its gentle and patient demeanor, especially with children. These dogs have a natural affinity for youngsters and often display a remarkable level of patience and tolerance, even in the face of playful antics.

Whether engaged in spirited play or enjoying quiet cuddle sessions, Brittany dogs are known to be exceptional companions for children, providing them with unconditional love and friendship.

Devoted and Protective

The loyalty of Brittany knows no bounds. These dogs form deep bonds with their human family members and will go to great lengths to protect and safeguard them.

Their watchful and alert nature ensures that they are always on the lookout for any potential dangers, making them excellent watchdogs.

While their friendly disposition means they may not be aggressive, their presence alone is often enough to deter intruders and provide a sense of security to their loved ones.

Inclusive Family Members

Brittany dogs are not content to be mere observers in family activities; they actively seek to be involved in all aspects of their human family’s life.

Whether it’s accompanying the family on outdoor adventures, joining in backyard games, or simply lounging around the living room, Brittany’s sociable and affectionate nature makes them an integral part of family gatherings.

Their desire to be included in all family affairs stems from their deep love and attachment to their human pack.

Emotional Support and Companionship

The affectionate nature of Brittany dogs extends to providing emotional support and companionship to their human family members.

Their unwavering presence and non-judgmental demeanor make them excellent therapy dogs for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges.

Many Brittany owners find comfort and solace in their furry companions, as these dogs have an uncanny ability to sense and respond to their human’s emotional needs.

Creating Lasting Memories

As loyal companions, Brittany dogs become an integral part of the family’s cherished memories. From sharing adventures in the great outdoors to participating in special family occasions, these dogs leave a lasting impression on their human family members.

The joy and love they bring to the household create heartwarming memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

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Grooming and Care Requirements

The Brittany dog breed’s stunning appearance requires regular grooming and dedicated care to keep them healthy and looking their best.

From maintaining their luscious coat to ensuring their overall well-being, here’s a comprehensive guide to the grooming and care needs of Brittany.

Coat Care

Brittany’s medium-length coat is dense, flat, and slightly wavy, which gives it a luxurious and elegant appearance. To keep their coat in top condition, regular brushing is essential.

Aim to brush your Brittany at least two to three times a week to remove loose hairs, tangles, and debris. During seasonal shedding periods, daily brushing may be necessary to manage the increased hair loss.

Bathing Routine

Regular bathing is another crucial aspect of Brittany’s grooming. While the frequency of baths depends on the individual dog’s lifestyle and activities, a general rule of thumb is to bathe your Brittany every six to eight weeks.

Use a mild dog shampoo to avoid stripping their coat of natural oils, and be sure to rinse thoroughly to prevent any residue. Additionally, take the opportunity to check and clean their ears, trim their nails, and inspect their teeth during bath time.

Eyes, Ears, and Teeth

Routine care for your Brittany’s eyes, ears, and teeth is vital for their overall health and well-being. Regularly check their eyes for any signs of redness, irritation, or excessive tearing, and gently wipe away any discharge with a damp cloth.

Keep their ears clean and free from wax buildup to prevent infections. Dental hygiene is equally crucial, so consider providing dental chews or regularly brushing their teeth to prevent dental issues.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

In addition to grooming, proper exercise, and mental stimulation are crucial for Brittany’s well-being. This breed thrives on physical activity and mental challenges, so daily exercise is essential to keep them happy and healthy.

Engage in activities like brisk walks, runs, or outdoor play to burn off their excess energy and prevent behavioral issues that may arise from boredom.

Nutrition and Diet

A balanced and nutritious diet is fundamental for maintaining your Brittany’s overall health and coat condition. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet plan for your dog, taking into account their age, activity level, and any specific dietary requirements.

Make sure to provide them with fresh water at all times to keep them hydrated, especially during hot weather or after physical activities.

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Training Tips: Nurturing the Best in Your Brittany

Brittany’s intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable dogs. With the right approach and consistent training, you can unlock their full potential and nurture the best qualities in your beloved Brittany.

Whether you’re teaching basic commands or more advanced tricks, these training tips will help you build a strong bond with your furry companion and bring out the best in them.

Start Early: Begin Puppy Training

Training should begin early in your Brittany’s life to establish good behaviors and socialization skills. Start with basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”

Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and affection, to reward your dog for following commands correctly. Consistency is key, so practice short training sessions regularly to reinforce their learning.

Socialization is Key

Socializing your Brittany from a young age is vital to help them become well-rounded and confident dogs. Expose them to different people, places, and experiences to prevent fear and anxiety in new situations.

Encourage positive interactions with other dogs and animals to foster good social skills. Early socialization sets the foundation for a friendly and well-mannered adult Brittany.

Positive Reinforcement: Be Patient and Reward Success

Brittanys respond well to positive reinforcement, so focus on rewarding good behaviors rather than punishing undesirable ones.

When your dog successfully follows a command or exhibits positive behavior, offer immediate praise, treats, or a favorite toy. Positive reinforcement builds trust and strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.

Consistency is Key: Set Clear Rules

Consistency is vital in training your Brittany. Set clear rules and boundaries from the beginning, and ensure that all family members follow them consistently.

Use the same commands and cues to avoid confusion and reinforce learning. When everyone is on the same page, your Brittany will quickly grasp what is expected of them.

Be Patient and Kind: Avoid Harsh Methods

Brittanys are sensitive dogs, and harsh training methods can be counterproductive and harmful. Avoid punishment-based techniques and opt for gentle, patient, and kind training methods.

Positive reinforcement and patience will yield better results and create a trusting and respectful relationship between you and your dog.

Challenging Activities: Keep Their Minds Active

Incorporate mentally stimulating activities into your Brittany’s routine to keep their mind engaged and prevent boredom.

Puzzle toys, scent games, and interactive training sessions can provide mental challenges that tap into their natural intelligence. A mentally stimulated Brittany is a happy and well-behaved companion.

Consistent Recall Training: Ensure Safety

Recall training is essential for off-leash adventures with your Brittany. Practice recall commands in a controlled environment, gradually progressing to more distracting settings.

Consistent recall training ensures that your dog will come back to you reliably, providing safety and peace of mind during outdoor activities.

Professional Training: Seek Expert Guidance

For more advanced training or if you encounter specific behavioral challenges, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer.

A qualified trainer can provide personalized training plans and offer valuable insights to address specific needs or issues your Brittany may have.

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Living Environments: The Perfect Fit

The adaptable nature of the Brittany dog breed makes them well-suited for various living environments, as long as their needs for exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship are met.

Whether you reside in a spacious suburban home or a cozy apartment, the Brittany can thrive and be the perfect fit for your lifestyle with the right care and attention.

Suburban Homes with Yards

Brittany’s energetic and active nature makes a suburban home with a yard an excellent match for this breed. Having access to a secure and spacious yard allows them to burn off energy and engage in playtime freely.

With ample space to run and explore, your Brittany will be a happy and contented canine companion. Be sure to provide plenty of interactive toys and mental stimulation to keep them entertained during outdoor play.

Active Families and Outdoorsy Lifestyles

Families with active and outdoorsy lifestyles will find Brittany to be an ideal addition to their adventures. This breed thrives on physical activity and will relish being part of your hiking, camping, or running excursions.

They are excellent companions for active individuals or families who enjoy spending time outdoors, and they will eagerly participate in all your outdoor activities.

Apartment Living

Surprisingly, Brittany can adapt well to apartment living, provided they receive sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. While apartments may have limited space, regular walks, playtime, and interactive activities can help meet their needs.

Be prepared to dedicate time to daily walks and exercise sessions to keep your Brittany happy and prevent any behavioral issues that may arise from boredom.

Rural and Countryside Dwellings

Brittany’s origin as a hunting dog in the French countryside makes them perfectly at home in rural settings. Living in the countryside or rural areas provides ample opportunities for them to explore and engage in natural behaviors.

Be mindful of potential wildlife encounters and ensure that your Brittany is well-trained in recall commands for their safety.

Multi-Pet Homes

Brittanys typically get along well with other pets, especially when introduced and socialized from a young age. They can be excellent companions for other dogs, cats, or small animals in multi-pet households.

Early socialization and positive interactions with other pets will foster a harmonious and happy living environment for everyone.

Companionship Needs

Regardless of the living environment, one constant need of Brittany is companionship. They are people-oriented dogs and thrive when they are part of the family dynamic.

Spending quality time with your Brittany, including cuddles, playtime, and training, will strengthen the bond between you and create a loving and devoted pet.

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Health Considerations: Promoting Longevity and Vitality

As responsible pet owners, ensuring the health and well-being of our beloved Brittany is of utmost importance. Like all dog breeds, Brittany is prone to certain health considerations that require attention and proactive care.

By staying informed and taking preventive measures, you can promote their longevity and vitality, allowing your furry friend to live a happy and healthy life by your side.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring your Brittany’s overall health and catching any potential health issues early.

Schedule regular visits to the veterinarian, at least once a year, for a comprehensive physical examination. Vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care should also be addressed during these visits.

Nutrition: The Foundation of Good Health

A well-balanced and nutritious diet is the cornerstone of a healthy Brittany. Providing high-quality dog food that meets their specific nutritional needs is vital.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet based on your Brittany’s age, activity level, and any specific health considerations.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Obesity can lead to various health problems, including joint issues and cardiovascular concerns. Help your Brittany maintain a healthy weight through proper portion control, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive treats.

A healthy weight will support their overall well-being and contribute to a longer, more active life.

Exercise: Keep Them Moving

Brittanys are active dogs that require regular exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. Daily walks, playtime, and engaging activities are essential to burn off their excess energy and prevent behavioral issues that may arise from boredom.

Regular exercise also helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of certain health conditions.

Grooming and Hygiene

Regular grooming is crucial to keep your Brittany’s coat clean and free from tangles. Brush their coat at least once a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting.

Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine.

Genetic Health Testing

Some health issues in Brittany may have a genetic basis. Before bringing a new puppy into your home, inquire about genetic health testing for potential hereditary conditions.

Responsible breeders will conduct health screenings on their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of passing on genetic health problems.

Eye and Ear Care

Brittanys are prone to certain eye and ear conditions. Regularly inspect their eyes for signs of redness, irritation, or discharge, and seek veterinary attention if any issues arise.

Additionally, keep their ears clean and dry to prevent ear infections, especially after swimming or bath time.

Dental Health

Oral health is essential for your Brittany’s overall well-being. Regularly brush their teeth and provide dental chews or toys to promote good dental hygiene. Dental issues can lead to pain and discomfort, affecting their quality of life.

Stay Alert to Changes

Monitor your Brittany’s behavior and appearance closely, and be vigilant for any unusual signs or symptoms. Changes in appetite, energy levels, or mobility may indicate underlying health concerns that require prompt veterinary attention.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the Brittany dog breed stands as a testament to the remarkable bond between humans and their canine companions.

With their agile athleticism, affectionate nature, and boundless energy, they have carved a special place in the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.

Whether you seek a devoted family pet or an enthusiastic hunting partner, the Brittany is a breed that excels in versatility and companionship.

By providing them with the love, care, and training they deserve, you can embark on a joyous journey with your agile and captivating Brittany by your side.

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Questions People Also Ask: (FAQs)

 

Are Brittany dogs suitable for families with children?

Absolutely! The Brittany breed’s affectionate and gentle nature makes them wonderful family pets, and they often form strong bonds with children.

 

Do Brittany dogs require a lot of exercise?

Yes, Brittany is an energetic breed that thrives on regular exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them happy and healthy.

 

Are Brittany dogs good with other pets?

Yes, Brittany dogs are generally friendly and get along well with other pets when properly socialized. They can make excellent companions to other animals in the household.

 

Do Brittany dogs shed a lot?

While Brittany dogs do shed, their grooming needs are manageable with regular brushing to keep their coat in good condition.

 

Are Brittany dogs easy to train?

Yes, Brittany dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them receptive to training. Positive reinforcement techniques work effectively with this breed.

 

Are Brittany dogs suitable for apartment living?

While Brittany dogs are adaptable, they do require ample exercise and mental stimulation. They may thrive better in homes with access to a yard or outdoor space.

 

Do Brittany dogs bark a lot?

Brittany dogs have a moderate barking tendency, but with proper training, this behavior can be managed and directed to appropriate situations.

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