|
The Canine Chronicles Directory
Briquet Griffon Vendeen
The Briquet Griffon Vendéen is a medium (Briquet), wire-haired (Griffon)
scent hound. They have a short head and a short muzzle. The strong nose is usually
black except when a white coat is present. The nose is then usually brown. The dark
eyes are large and lively. The eyebrows are well pronounced but do not cover the
eyes. The muzzle is straight and the teeth meet in a scissor bite. The neck is long
and elegant and has no dewlap. The back is solid and straight and the chest is quite
deep. The tail is thick at the base and tapers slightly. It is set high and is sabre-shaped.
The coat of this breed is dense, bushy and harsh to the touch. Colors include black
and white, black and tan, white and orange, fawn and black and tricolor.
|
|
Temperament
|
BGVs are alert, active, intense and enthusiastic. They are usually good-natured
but some have been known to snap. This breed can be a bit stubborn during training
as they are independent and single-minded. They make fairly good watchdogs and are
good with children. The BGV likes to dig and can be hot to pursue and kill prey.
|
|
Height, Weight
|
Height: 19-24" ; Weight: 35-53 lbs.
|
|
Health Problems
|
Minor health concerns include patellar luxation and distichiasis.
|
|
Living Conditions
|
BGVs will do okay living in an apartment if they get enough exercise; however, they
do better living in the country. They should not be let off their lead because their
hunting instinct is too strong. One scent ? and he is off on the chase. They need
a secure fenced area. Remember they are diggers and jumpers.
|
|
Exercise
|
This breed needs room to exercise and explore. A combination of play, mental training
and exercise is best for this breed. Only let this dog off his lead in a safe area.
|
|
Life Expectancy
|
About 12-15 years
|
|
Grooming
|
This breed's coat does not need to be trimmed. Groom with a brush and comb to prevent
matting.
|
|
Origin
|
The BGV is one of four rough-coated breeds from the west coast of France in the
La Vendee region. This includes the Briquet, Grand Griffon Vendee, Basset Griffon
Vendeen and the Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen. The hounds of Vendee are some of
the oldest varieties, bred directly from the white southern Hound with crosses to
rough-coated dogs reportedly from Italy. Crosses also occurred to the Griffon Nivernais.
One of the first breeders was a king's recorder (clerk) in the 15th century. Clerk
in French is greffier. This breed is recognized by the FCI and the UKC.
|
|
Group
|
Scenthound
|