|
The Canine Chronicles Directory
Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a large (Grand), low (Basset), wire-haired
(Griffon) scent hound with a strong, deep chest. The weatherproof coat is rough
and harsh on top with a thick undercoat. The muzzle is short and the jaws strong
and should come together with a scissor-like bite. The nose is either black or brown
with well-opened nostrils. The eyes are large and dark and have no white showing.
They have very longhaired eyebrows; however, the eyes are not covered. The hairy
ears are long and fall well below the eye level. The elbows are close to the body
and they have a level topline. The tail should be set high and is very hairy. It
is thick at the base, tapers and is carried saber fashion or slightly curved. The
coat should be rough and not too flat. Coat colors include fawn, light brown, white
and orange, white and gray or tri-colored.
|
|
Temperament
|
GBGVs are happy dogs that love to be active. They are energetic and independent
but can have their own agenda. They need a strong owner who will let them know who
is top dog. They can be stubborn and independent but are always willing to please.
They get along well with children and other dogs. They should not be trusted with
non-canine pets. They like to dig.
|
|
Height, Weight
|
Height: 15-17" ; Weight: 40-45 lbs.
|
|
Health Problems
|
This breed is one of the hardiest and healthiest dogs around. There have been very
few reported hereditary or congenital conditions, though the GBGV had a prior history
of epilepsy.
|
|
Living Conditions
|
The GBGV will do well living in an apartment if they are raised in that environment.
They do best 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 may go under the fence.
|
|
Exercise
|
This breed needs moderate daily exercise. Only let this dog off his lead in a safe
area.
|
|
Life Expectancy
|
About 10-12 years
|
|
Grooming
|
This breed's coat should be thick and casual looking. Comb weekly. Check often for
matting and only bathe when necessary. They shed little or no hair. Check ears for
excess hair and clip nails regularly. Trim hair on the pads when needed.
|
|
Origin
|
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen has its origin in the Vendee region of France.
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 which is probably where
the name of the breed originated. During the French Revolution, the dogs nearly
became extinct, but a club was formed in 1907 which sought to revive the breed.
They are recognized by the FCI, the UKC and have been accepted for recording in
the AKC Foundation Stock Service®.
|
|
Group
|
AKC/FSS Hound, UKC Scenthound
|