History and Origin: 0riginating in France, in the Vendée region. Among the group of hounds that track by scent. With an over 400 year old ancient lineage, the GBGV was established as a distinct breed in the late 19th century. They hunt in packs and are capable of hunting wild boar and roe deer as well as tracking hare and rabbit. The GBGV is one of the four Vendéen hounds, each bred for hunting different sized game. The tallest is the Grand Griffon Vendéen used for hunting moose, the Briquet Griffon Vendéen used for hunting deer, the next smaller size being the GBGV and the smallest is the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. The Grand was recognized by AKC in 2018 and is currently on the CKC miscellaneous list.
General Appearance: The GBGV is a rustic appearing medium sized dog, slightly longer than tall with straight legs, deep chest, and a rather messy tousled appearance. They are expressive, with a strong head adorned with heavy eyebrows, moustache and beard. Eyes are large, dark, and oval. Expression is always friendly and alert. Big open nostrils, black or brown. Long ears set low on head that form into a corkscrew. Teeth meet in a scissor bite, level acceptable. Tail long and carried like a sabre. Size:15 ½ -18 inches about 45-50 lbs.
Coat and Colour: coat is harsh and straight with undercoat, must never be soft or silky. Abundant eyebrows, moustache and beard. Colors are: tri colour: ( white, black, tan) , Bi colour: (white with any other colour such as black, gray, orange, lemon, sable or grizzled) or black and tan. Needs daily brushing to be maintained properly. A good slicker brush is a must.
Feeding: easy to maintain on a quality high end kibble fed twice daily.
Training and Obedience: generally easy to train, but also can be stubborn. Good breed for hunters. The breed can excel in barn hunt, tracking trials, scent detection, agility, rally, obedience and hunting trials. They use their voice freely when hunting. The GBGV is an active sturdy hunting dog with high prey drive. Can do well in obedience as they have a fairly reliable recall for a hound !
Activity: the GBGV requires daily runs or long walks on leash. Off lead running only in a secure fenced area. A strong, energetic, and fun loving breed but probably not for a sedentary lifestyle. The GBGV can be quite vocal, even in everyday life.
Temperament: Sweet stable companion, noble, devoted and loyal. This happy hound also has another side that is silly, goofy, and with a clownish demeanor. The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is happy to couch cuddle but also needs energy outlet and mental stimulation. A great family pet and an accomplished hunting dog.
