Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
🧠 Temperament & character
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is independent, spirited and passionate, with great stamina and a pronounced voice on the trail. He is friendly and open, but also shows a strong will of his own. On a scent he can become almost unswerving and follows his nose with full devotion. In family life he is cheerful and affectionate, but needs clear, patient guidance.
📜 Origin & history
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen comes from the Vendée and belongs to the old family of Vendée griffons. In the 1970s the breeder Paul Dézamy established the clear separation between the large and the small variety, so that the Grand and Petit BGV are regarded as breeds in their own right. Originally bred for the enduring hunting of hares, he is a passionate scent hound to this day.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen's coarse, medium-length coat needs regular brushing and occasional trimming so that it does not mat. As an enduring hunting dog he needs plenty of exercise and scent work, such as tracking or search games. Because of his independence, training is demanding and calls for patience, humour and consistency. Without enough activity he can become headstrong and loud.
🩺 Health
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is fundamentally a healthy, robust breed with a life expectancy of about twelve to fourteen years. Because of the long ears, they should be cleaned regularly to prevent infections. His somewhat long back requires a certain care to avoid strain on the spine. Reputable breeders pay attention to healthy parent animals and a balanced constitution.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen suits active people and families who value his urge to move and his cheerful wilfulness. He is only suitable for beginners to a limited extent, as his independence and prey drive require experience and consistency. He likes best to live in a house with a garden and plenty of access to nature. In Switzerland he is rarer than the smaller Petit BGV, but finds favour with owners interested in hunting.