Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 29th August 2023
Grand Bassett Griffon Vendéen
By
Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 29th August 2023
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, or GBGV, is an independent, outgoing, high-energy scent hound. Its name roughly translates to “large, low, shaggy dog from Vendée,” which describes its appearance perfectly. Hailing from the Vendée region in France, it is the tallest of all Bassets. Its shaggy appearance, bushy eyebrows, furry mustache, and floppy ears characterize it. Its past as a hunting dog may indicate an aggressive temperament. Still, it is a very calm, intelligent, and affectionate dog, which makes a great family pet.
Grand Bassett Griffon Vendéen Pictures
Quick Information
| Other names | Basset Griffon Vendéen (Grand), GBGV |
| Coat | Medium-long, wiry, and hard double coat |
| Color | They can be tricolored or bicolored with a white base, black and tan, or fawn. |
| Breed type | Purebred |
| Group | Hound |
| Life expectancy | 13-15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Height | 15.5-18 inches |
| Weight | 40-45 pounds |
| Litter Size | 7-12 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Affectionate, playful, energetic, confident, and docile |
| Good with children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | High; they bark loudly and frequently |
| Climate compatibility | Moderate |
| Apartment compatibility | Low; they need open spaces to run around |
| Do they shed | Moderate; they are mainly seasonal shedders |
| Are they hypoallergenic | No |
| Trainability | Moderate; they can be stubborn and unwilling |
| How much do they cost | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/Information | ACK, FCI, UKC, GBGVCA |
| Country | France |
Other Similar Breeds
History and Origin
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is one of the four Griffon Vendéen hounds developed in France around 400 years ago. It was bred to hunt hares in the dense, rocky, and thorny terrain of the Vendée region. Here, people required slower hunting dogs they could keep up with on foot and whose coats would not tangle with the bushy brambles common to this region. Thus, breeders developed its characteristic low build, hard coat, and intense stamina. It is still quite popular as a pack hunting dog in Europe, tracking down all mammals, from rabbits to wild boars.
In 1907, the Club du Griffon Vendéen was founded, which recognized two varieties of this group: the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen and the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen. By the 1950s, the Grand variety was considered a separate breed. However, interbreeding was still common till it was banned in 1977. The AKC finally added it to its list of recognized breeds in 2018 after having it be a part of the FSS from 2004-2017.
Temperament and Personality
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens are cheerful, outgoing, and docile by nature. They are very energetic and have a lot of stamina. Hence, they need an owner to provide lots of exercise and outdoor play. For this reason, they do not make good apartment dogs. Their gentle and friendly temperament and pedigree as pack dogs help them get along with children and other pets. However, they are hunting dogs, so be careful around smaller prey animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits.
Their high prey drive and intense nose make it difficult to control them if they catch a scent. They are independent and can become stubborn while training, which novice owners should consider before getting one. However, with correct and early training, you will have a loving, happy dog who makes an excellent companion.
Care
Exercise
As a hunting dog, this breed needs much exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Failure to provide adequate play will leave you with a restless and destructive dog. Going on long walks twice daily and engaging in play like hide-and-seek, fetch, and tug-of-war are great options for your dog. They are also good as competition dogs, participating in agility, rally, obedience, tracking and scenting, and more. They do not lose energy with age, so keep up exercise levels as they grow.
Grooming
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens don’t shed heavily, so weekly brushing with a slicked brush and comb is enough to remove stray hairs. Regular teeth brushing and occasional baths are adequate to keep your dog clean. You must check their ears for infection, wax build-up, and clip their nails when needed.
Health Problems
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a primarily healthy breed, with common issues being epilepsy, Leishmaniasis, elbow or hip dysplasia, dermatitis, kennel cough, and ear infections. You should buy your dog only from certified breeders and undergo regular check-ups to avoid significant issues.
Feeding
Their diet should be formulated considering a medium-sized, high-energy breed. After consulting your veterinarian, select a high-quality dog food brand and avoid overfeeding. You must consider their age, weight, and underlying medical issues while making their meal plan. Always provide your dog with clean water.
Training
Owing to their wilful and boisterous nature, Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens can be challenging to train initially. Early training and socialization will ensure you have a happy and well-adjusted companion.
Socialization: It is crucial to start obedience training your Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen as early as possible; otherwise, it can become unruly. As a pack animal, it gets along great with other dogs, so early socialization is a good idea. You must be patient and give treats and encouragement to get the best response from your dog.
Leash: As a hunting animal, it cannot escape its scenting instincts, so it tends to run off chasing smells and small prey. So, you must keep your Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen leashed in public. Outdoor play is recommended in fenced areas only.
Interesting Facts
- Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens can be trained to mantrail in the US and Europe. Mantrailing is the tracking of individuals following their skin cells.
- A group of Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens won the 5th European Cup for Hare.
FAQs
The most significant difference is that the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is larger than the Petit variety, hence the name. Also, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is more vocal.
The right way to pronounce Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is “Grand-Bah-SAY Gree-FOHN VON-day-uhn.”
