GROUP 4 – HOUNDS

History

Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen (GBGV) is a rustic French Hound that came to prominence during the French Revolution. The Vendeen is an extremely rugged and remote area of France where  many rebels  went into  hiding, and the  residents of this  district needed agile,  rugged Hounds to assist  them in hunting.

Both the Petit and the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen have distinct individual breed characteristics, developed to assist them in hunting their own specific prey: rabbits for the Petit and boar for the GBGV.

Temperament

Both the PBGV and GBGV are friendly outgoing dogs, with the PBGV bearing the nickname 'the  Happy Hound'. While they are scent Hounds, they are not perhaps as nose obsessed as other scent Hounds and are very responsive to training. The GBGV is fast and well voiced, but can be stubborn at times. The breed has been known to perform extremely well in Obedience, Agility and Tracking. It does require an extremely well fenced yard, and should not be let off lead in unsecure areas.

Appearance

Often described as 'scruffy dogs' both the Petit and the Grand have a particularly rustic

The GBGV has an elongated body, balanced and elegant with oval eyes and a strong jawline. Its bone structure is developed but lean.

Health

Sadly, the PBGV and GBGV are prone to some health problems including eye diseases, epilepsy and hip dysplasia and it is extremely important that you purchase your dog from a breeder who has a rigorous testing program.

The Basset Griffon Vendeen Club of NSW encourages all members to test their dogs. Generally, a well bred PBGV or GBGV is a long-lived and healthy dog and can live up to 15 years of age.

Maintenance

They are active dogs that require owners who are willing to provide them with mental stimulation, as well as physical exercise. Being pack Hounds, they thrive on being part of the family and getting out and about. They are very responsive dogs and have done well at Obedience when positive methods have been used.

It is recommended that the outer coat be stripped by hand and a thorough brushing each week will remove most dead hair.  This will avoid shedding.

Suitability

Overall, both the Petit and the Grand make fabulous pets for people who want a medium-sized dog and are willing to put the time in. The breed thrives on attention and its fantastic, clown-like personality make it a much-loved member of the family.

Both breeds require a well fenced yard, and have been known to dig and  climb, if allowed to become bored.

Words: Claire Parker

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen, you may think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen, and its needs and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.