Don't let the charming, sweet face of a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen fool you. These long-backed, short-legged dogs are incredibly rugged and brave hunters who live for the chase. Hailing from France, and generally fixed in type since the late 19th century, Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens navigate through rough terrain and brambles like a champ, and are capable of hunting just about any prey. Given their background, they require more exercise than many breeds, and should be kept on leash or in a fenced area to prevent them from running off after perceived "prey." That being said, with enough training and daily stimuli, these dogs are often surprisingly docile and well-mannered in the home.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen typically weigh in at 40-44 pounds and stand 15-18 inches tall, with females slightly shorter. Their life expectancy is 12-14 years. Their coats are rough and they feature a mustache, beard, and eyebrows (very protective for running through brambles). Color ranges from black & tan, or white, or fawn to white & lemon or orange, or even tri-color. Their coats require regular brushing, with baths and grooming as needed. Their nails grow quickly and need regular clipping, and they are a breed that regular tooth brushing is recommended for.
They are friendly dogs, but have a high prey drive and are "vocal" (i.e. barking and whining), and training early for recall is a must. While they love their owners, they are social dogs and most comfortable in a "pack" that includes at least one other animal. While they are most often domestic house dogs, they are fantastic and beloved hunting partners, helping to hunt game from hare to ferocious wild boars!
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
