01/Overview
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) is a distinct and elegant French hound known for its tenacity as a hunter and its friendly demeanor with everyone it meets. A member of the Basset family, the GBGV is a larger version of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGV). Recognized for its rough coat and dignified expression, the breed is not only a skilled worker in the field, it is also an affectionate companion in the home.
Highlights
02/History
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen traces its roots back to the rugged landscape of the Vendée region in Western France. These hounds were cultivated over centuries to possess the stamina and determination required to hunt game over the region's challenging terrain.
Historically, the GBGV shared its origins with the smaller Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. The two breeds were only distinguished by size and were bred for different game – the larger GBGV often pursued larger prey like the roe deer, while the smaller hound focused its pursuits on hares and rabbits.
Through the years, breeders carefully selected dogs with the best scenting abilities, intelligence, and resilience to ensure the breed's proficiency as a hunter. Over time, this selective breeding produced the distinct appearance and character traits associated with the GBGV today.
The breed's value, however, was not limited to hunting. The GBGV, with its affable nature and distinctive looks, soon found its way into homes as a loyal companion. This allowed the breed’s popularity to grow not only in France but also abroad.
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen ultimately received official recognition by major kennel clubs and registries, further solidifying its status within the dog world. The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted the GBGV official recognition in 2018. Additionally, given its European roots, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has long recognized and celebrated the breed, and in the United Kingdom, The Royal Kennel Club (UK) has also championed the unique qualities and heritage of the GBGV.
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen's rich history is a testament to its adaptability and its many charms. From the rough Vendée region to today's modern landscapes, the GBGV has reliably embodied its remarkable versatility and its many endearing qualities wherever it has been admired.
03/Appearance
Mature Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens typically stand between 15.5 and 18 inches tall at the shoulder.
In terms of weight, adult GBGVs generally weigh from 40 to 45 pounds.
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a well-balanced dog, with a body that is slightly longer than it is tall. This elongated form is not excessive and should never detract from the breed's natural agility and speed. The GBGV possesses solid bone, ensuring strength without clunkiness. The breed's overall composition speaks to its history as a determined and resilient hunting dog, capable of navigating challenging terrain with ease.
Texture: The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen boasts a rough coat of medium length, providing this hound with an unmistakable ruggedness. The breed’s noble head sports a beard and mustache, as well as long, protective eyebrows. The double coat is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, as it offers protection against brambles and harsh weather conditions that are often encountered during a hunt.
Markings: None
Standard Colors
04/Consider
Owning a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a rewarding experience, as these hounds bring both charm and vitality to a household. However, potential owners should be prepared for the breed's specific needs in order to maintain a healthy and happy dog and to foster a harmonious relationship.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is generally a robust and healthy breed, inheriting the resilience of its hunting ancestors. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet play a crucial role in maintaining its health and well-being. Lifespan: The average lifespan of a GBGV is around 13 to 15 years. However, with proper care and attention, some individuals can live beyond these years, enjoying a ripe old age with vigor.
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen possesses a character that is charming and lively, making these happy and outgoing hounds delightful companions for families and individuals alike.
For those who are new to dog ownership, the GBGV can be a suitable choice, as the breed’s friendly demeanor and adaptable nature make it relatively straightforward to care for. However, novice owners should be prepared to handle the breed’s sometimes stubborn and independent streak, a trait inherent to many scenthound breeds.
In terms of sensitivity, the GBGV ranks as only moderately reactive. These hounds can be both independent and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their human companions while also enjoying moments of blissful solitude.
A GBGV is usually amiable towards other dogs, largely owing to its pack-hunting background. The breed’s sociable nature often translates well to multi-dog households, although early socialization is always beneficial.
The friendly disposition of the GBGV extends to children, making it an excellent choice as a family dog. The breed generally enjoys the playful energy of younger kids, though it is always recommended that interactions between children and dogs be supervised.
When it comes to strangers, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen’s response can vary. Some hounds may be somewhat reserved, whereas others will be more welcoming. Either way, early socialization can help with preparing a GBGV to demonstrate a balanced reaction when meeting new people.
Exercise Expectations
The GBGV is an active and energetic breed, deriving from its history as a hunting dog. While these hounds don't require the level of exercise of some high-energy breeds, they still benefit from consistent daily activity. Long walks, coupled with playtime in a secured yard, often suffice to keep a GBGV content. When out for a walk, it's crucial to keep these dogs on a leash due to their inherent tracking instincts. Given the chance, they might chase after an interesting scent, making recall a real challenge. In terms of intensity, GBGVs are a moderate breed. These hounds typically enjoy periods of play and can exhibit bursts of energy, especially during their younger years. However, they're also known to appreciate lounging around with their family after a good exercise session. Playfulness is an innate characteristic of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen. These affable dogs often enjoy participating in games of fetch and tug-of-war, and even agility exercises. Engaging them in such activities not only provides physical stimulation, it also offers an excellent bonding opportunity for both hound and human.
Welcoming a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen into the home entails understanding and catering to the specific needs of the breed, ensuring that everyone enjoys a harmonious coexistence.
For apartment dwellers, the good news is that a GBGV can adapt to apartment living provided the dog receives adequate exercise daily. The breed’s moderate energy level means that, after a good walk or play session, these hounds are usually content to lounge around the house. However, a home with a yard provides an additional space for them to explore and play, given their natural curiosity and love for simply sniffing around.
In terms of weather adaptability, the breed’s coarse coat offers protection against colder temperatures, and these hounds generally handle cooler climates quite well. That said, it's always essential to provide shelter and warmth during extremely cold periods. On the flip side, their coat can also serve as a barrier against sunburn in hot weather, so they should be protected from extreme heat. It’s important, however, to always make sure they have access to shade and fresh water, especially during the hotter months.
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen’s sociable nature means these dogs thrive in a family environment and prefer being involved in family activities rather than being left alone during the day. Their friendly disposition often makes them suitable companions for children, but as with all dogs, interactions with kids should always be supervised.
05/Puppies
The arrival of Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen puppies is an exciting time for everyone involved, filled with boundless energy, playful antics, and moments of pure joy. These pups, with their large eyes and floppy ears, are undeniably adorable, but raising each one also comes with responsibilities for providing the best start in life.
From the moment a GBGV puppy opens its eyes to the world, its inquisitiveness is evident. However, the pup's physical and emotional growth requires special attention during the first weeks, month, and year.
Diet is paramount during this stage. It is important to make sure the GBGV pup receives nutritionally balanced meals that are designed specifically for puppies. This diet will support its growth and overall development. It is also essential to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the puppy's breeder or a veterinarian to prevent feeding too much or too little.
Socialization plays a pivotal role during the puppy's early months. Introducing the GBGV pup to various environments, people, and other animals helps to building confidence and reduces the chances of becoming timid and withdrawn later in life.
While a GBGV puppy is filled with plenty of energy, it is crucial to make sure its playtime isn't too rough, as the pup's growing bones and joints are still delicate. Gentle play and age-appropriate toys can keep it engaged without risk of injury.
Training should begin early, capitalizing on the puppy’s eagerness to learn while establishing a solid foundation for future training sessions. Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, can make the process smoother and more enjoyable for both the puppy and its favorite people.
Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments against parasites are essential to safeguard the young Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen’s health during those initial months.
06/Activities
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a breed that thrives when engaged in activities that challenge both its body and mind. The breed's history as a scenthound, originally bred for hunting in the challenging terrain of the Vendée region of France, has endowed these hounds with traits that make them well-suited for various activities. Some of the dog sports that can provide an outlet for a GBGV include:
It's always crucial to choose activities that align with the dog’s age, health, and temperament. Proper training and positive reinforcement can deepen the bond between the dog and its owner while providing mental and physical stimulation for both.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
09/Rescue
10/Facts
French Origin
The name "Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen" translates from French. "Grand" means large, referring to the dog's size relative to its cousin, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. "Vendéen" is a nod to the Vendée region of France, where the breed originated.
Versatile Hunter
The GBGV was traditionally used for hunting in packs, and its keen sense of smell, combined with its agile body, made it especially adept at tracking hare and deer over rough terrain.
Royal Affection
This breed, along with its smaller counterpart, gained popularity in the courts of French royalty. Their unique appearance and amiable nature made them favorites among the nobility.
Vocal Communicator
Known for its distinct voice, the GBGV uses a combination of barks, howls, and vocalizations to communicate, especially during hunts. This trait was especially valued by hunters to pinpoint the dog's location in dense vegetation.
Resilient Coat
The GBGV’s rough and tousled coat isn't just for looks. It serves as protection against brambles and underbrush, allowing the hound to navigate challenging environments without injury.
11/FAQ
Yes, Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens shed, but not excessively. Their rough and medium-length coat will shed periodically throughout the year, especially during seasonal changes in the spring and fall months. Regular grooming can help to manage and reduce the amount of hair that's shed.
Official Standard of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
General Appearance: The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a well-balanced, strongly built, rough-coated scent hound of friendly and noble character. He is of medium size with straight legs, deep chest. He is longer than he is tall with a moderately long muzzle, long ears and a long tail. His neck is moderately long and strong, noble head with a mustache and beard, surmounted with protective long eyebrows. His structure was designed to hunt rabbit and hare at a fast pace through the bramble, and over the rough terrain of the Vendee area of France. He is a courageous, passionate and broadly skilled hunter who today is used to hunt not only rabbit and hare but also boar and roe deer. He is active, possessing great stamina for a full days’ hunt and uses his voice freely while on the trail. Any feature that detracts from function is a serious fault.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Height – typically 15½ to 18 inches. Proportion – longer than tall as measured from point of shoulder to point of buttocks. Never square nor long and low. Substance – in balance with the whole; strongly built and well boned without exaggeration. Firmly muscled, built for endurance and parts in harmony. Never clumsy.
Head: Expression – noble with a proud head carriage. Eyes convey an intelligent, warm and friendly character. Eyes – large, dark and oval in shape, of the same color, showing no white; haw not visible. Rims fully pigmented. Ears – supple, narrow and fine, ending in an oval shape, draping and folding inwards. Leathers are covered with long hair and reaching at least to the end of the nose. Set on low, below the line of the eye. Viewed from the side, ears should form a corkscrew shape when the dog is relaxed. Skull – domed, not heavy and not too wide; it is longer than it is wide. Occipital bone well developed. Muzzle – preferably slightly longer from tip of nose to stop than from stop to occiput. The bridge of the nose is slightly roman and in profile finishes square at its extremity. Lips well-pigmented, covered with long hair forming beard and mustache. Bite – is a scissors bite, with a level bite tolerated. Stop – clearly defined; well chiseled under the eyes. Nose – large, protruding with open nostrils. Solid black except in white/orange and hite/lemon coats where brown is accepted. Underjaw – strong and well-developed.
Neck, Topline, Body: Neck – strong and far reaching, thicker at the base, without excessive throatiness. Topline – from behind withers to rump is level with slight rise over well muscled loin. Body – well developed, sturdy and broad, with deep forechest and prominent sternum. Depth of chest reaches to elbows, ribs well sprung extending well back. Loin well muscled and of moderate length. Belly never tucked up. Tail – rather long, reaching to the hock. Set on high, thick at the base, tapering gradually, well furnished with hair, carried proudly like a saber or slightly curved but never kinked, curled too far over the back, gay or bent at the tip. Tail is never docked. Feet – large, oval and tight. Pads firm and solid. Nails strong and short.
Forequarters: Shoulders clean and sloping. Well laid back. Length of shoulder blades approximately equal to length of upper arm. Withers very slightly prominent. Elbows close to the body, turning neither in nor out. Forelegs from front, straight and well-boned. In profile, set well under body. Dewclaws on forelegs and hind legs may be removed. Pasterns strong and slightly sloping.
Hindquarters: Well boned, strong and muscular, with moderate bend of stifle and a well-defined second thigh. Hips wide. Hocks turning neither in nor out.
Coat: Harsh and straight with undercoat. Not too long, fringing not too abundant. Never silky or wooly. Hair from bridge of nose fans up between the eyes without obscuring the eyes; this protective hair along with shielding eyebrows is an indispensable characteristic of the breed. No blunt scissoring, maintaining a casual appearance. Hounds should be shown clean.
Color: Tri-color: white with any other colors, Bi-color: white with any other color, or Black and Tan. Solid not allowed.
Gait: Clean, balanced and efficient. Free and easy at all speeds. Front action straight and reaching well forward. Going away, the hind legs are parallel and have great drive. Convergence of the front and rear legs towards his center of gravity is proportional to the speed of his movement.
Temperament: Pack hound, friendly, not easily agitated by others. Temperament is happy, outgoing, independent. A little stubborn, yet willing to please.
Disqualifications: Solid color.
Approved October 28, 2011
Effective January 1, 2014
Meet the Owner Handlers
Addison Lancaster shares her journey in dog sports, from Juniors to GBGVs, mentorship, and dreams of a Best in Show victory.
Explore the rich history, function, and charm of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen, a rustic French hunting hound.
Dog Shows
Discover the remarkable journey of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen to AKC recognition, spanning 15 years. Read more.
The tail of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is thick at the base, tapering as it extends towards the tip. Set high, the tail is carried proudly, often with a slight curve but never curled over the back. When the hound is in motion, especially during a hunt, the tail is held high, making it easily visible in tall grass or rough cover.
The tail is covered with rough hair similar to that on the rest of the body. It can sometimes be slightly bushier than the rest of the coat, adding to the tail’s prominence. The GBGV's tail has a saber-like shape and is never docked.
A Note About Color: The GBGV’s colorful coat is harsh and straight, with a casual appearance that requires no scissoring or sculpting. Color may be white with any other colors (tri-color), white with any other color (bi-color), or black and tan. Solid colors are not acceptable in the GBGV.
Coat Type
Wiry, Double
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Medium
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
Feeding the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen requires a well-thought-out approach to maintain this hound’s health, energy, and optimal weight. The breed's active nature, combined with its robust constitution, requires a diet that fuels its energy needs.
When feeding a GBGV puppy, it's essential to provide a diet specifically formulated for growing dogs. Puppies typically require more frequent meals - often three to four times a day - to support their rapid growth and high energy levels.
As the GBGV transitions into adulthood, its dietary needs change. Adult GBGVs will usually thrive on two meals a day. The amount of food given will vary based on the dog's age, weight, activity level, and the specific brand of food. On average, a typical adult GBGV might consume between 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dog food daily. However, it's always best to consult the feeding guidelines on the dog food package or discuss with a veterinarian to determine the ideal quantity.
It's essential to monitor the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen’s weight and adjust feeding amounts as necessary. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can bring about a slew of health issues. On the flip side, underfeeding or providing a diet lacking in essential nutrients can result in an undernourished and lethargic dog.
Training a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen offers a unique experience, combining the joys of working with an intelligent breed and the occasional challenge presented by its independent nature.
The GBGV is undoubtedly an intelligent breed, often displaying a keen understanding of commands and tasks. However, their hound lineage means these dogs can sometimes be guided by their noses and instincts, leading them to momentarily ignore commands, especially if an intriguing scent captures their attention.
Early training and socialization are vital for the GBGV. Being introduced to various environments, people, and other animals during their formative months will shape them into becoming well-rounded adults. It's also during this time that basic obedience commands can be introduced.
When training a GBGV, consistency is crucial. The breed’s occasional stubborn streak can be countered with patience and positive reinforcement techniques. Using treats, praise, and play as rewards often yields the best results.
Regarding vocal tendencies, the GBGV might express itself with barking, especially if they pick up on intriguing scents or if they're left alone for extended periods. Addressing excessive barking early on can prevent any unnecessary vocalization from becoming a habitual behavior.
Roaming can be another trait inherent in some GBGVs. A securely fenced yard or leash walks are recommended to ensure the errant hound doesn't get led astray by its superb nose.
Lastly, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen's natural instincts might lead these hounds to chase smaller animals, a trait known officially as predation. Early training and socialization can help to manage this behavior, but owners should always be cautious when introducing a GBGV to new pets, especially smaller ones.
Grooming Expectations
The breed’s coat is rough and straight, providing a degree of protection against brambles and harsh weather when they’re outdoors. This texture means they don't need frequent baths unless they get particularly dirty. Overbathing can strip the coat of its natural oils, so it's best to bathe the GBGV only when it’s necessary. In terms of shedding, the GBGV is a moderate shedder. Regular brushing, ideally a couple of times a week, will help to remove any loose hairs, keep the coat free of tangles, and distribute the skin's natural oils, promoting a healthy shine. During shedding seasons, usually in the spring and fall, more frequent brushing might be needed to manage the increased hair loss. It's also essential to check the GBGV’s long ears regularly. Due to their drooping nature, they can be prone to infections. Cleaning them with a vet-recommended solution and making sure they’re always dry will help to prevent potential issues from taking hold in the ear canals. Beyond coat care, other grooming essentials include trimming the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen’s nails regularly, making sure they don't become too long or cause discomfort. Regular dental care, like brushing the teeth or providing dental chews, will promote good oral health and fresh breath.
