Basset Griffon Vendeen

The Basset Griffon Vendeen, affectionately known as the GBGV, is a captivating scent hound celebrated for its unique rugged coat and lively yet loving demeanor. Originating from France's Vendee region, this breed is distinguished by its elongated body and shorter legs, complemented by a bushy beard, moustache, and expressive eyebrows, contributing to its unmistakable and charming look. While initially bred as adept hunters of hares and rabbits, they have now found their place as cherished family companions in homes across the globe.

Medium in size, these dogs are agile and robust, designed for endurance and scent-tracking rather than sheer speed, making them exceptional working hounds and delightful family pets. Their temperament is characterized by intelligence, a calm demeanor, and an energetic spirit, making them perfect for active households that can provide plenty of mental and physical engagement. GBGVs flourish when involved in family life, relishing in companionship and participating in daily activities and adventures.

Ideal owners for the Basset Griffon Vendeen are those who appreciate the breed's hunting lineage and are prepared for their lively energy, hunting instincts, and occasional stubborn nature. They are best suited for experienced dog owners or those familiar with scent hounds and their training needs. Prospective owners should ensure consistent training, early socialization, secure containment to prevent escapes, and a lifestyle that includes daily exercise. Their affectionate disposition makes them great with children and other pets when properly socialized.

In terms of care, the breed requires regular grooming to keep their rough coat in check, attention to dental and eye health, and an active lifestyle to channel their energetic drive. Although not as demanding in grooming as some other rough-coated breeds, their coats benefit from periodic hand stripping and weekly brushing. Overall, the Basset Griffon Vendeen is a delightful combination of charm, work ethic, and companionship, rewarding dedicated owners with spirited loyalty and lifelong friendship.

Perfect For

Individuals who enjoy active walks and outdoor pursuits, families with children who can handle a spirited medium-sized dog, experienced owners familiar with hound breeds, and anyone seeking a loyal, affectionate companion with a distinctive appearance and scenting instincts.

Key Considerations

Requires secure backyard fencing due to known escape tendencies, may not be ideal for first-time owners without prior dog training experience, needs consistent, early socialization and training, and requires regular grooming and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

The Basset Griffon Vendeen's history stretches back to the 16th century in the Vendee region of western France, where it was crafted as a scent hunting dog adept at tracking hares and rabbits. Historically, the breed came in two sizes: the Grand (larger) and Petit (smaller). Both sizes could occasionally appear in a single litter until the 1970s, when breeding between the two was formally stopped to maintain distinct breed standards.

Early Development

The breed's development was shaped by hunters and enthusiasts like the Comte d'Elva and Ernest Ambaud in the 19th century, who worked tirelessly to establish the breed's rough-coated form through selective breeding, eliminating smooth and silky coats. The Comte d'Elva played a pivotal role in defining the breed standard, earning the title "Father of the Breed." The formation of the Club du Basset Francais in 1896, with Comte d'Elva as president, marked a significant milestone in solidifying the breed as a distinct entity.

Modern Recognition

After disruptions during the First World War, dedicated huntsmen revitalized the breed's population and purpose. Over the years, the breed standard was refined, and separate standards were created for the Petit and Grand varieties to preserve their characteristics. The British Kennel Club recognizes the Basset Griffon Vendeen as a distinct pedigree breed, valued for its versatile hunting skills and suitability as a companion dog. While traditionally prized in France and Europe for hunting deer, wild boar, and small game, it has steadily gained popularity in the UK and other countries as a loving family pet thanks to its striking appearance and endearing temperament.

Size and Build

Basset Griffon Vendeens are medium-sized dogs with specific dimensions: males typically stand 15.5-17.5 at the withers and weigh between 40-45, while females range from 15-17 and also weigh 40-45. The breed is notably longer in body than in height, possessing a well-balanced, sturdy frame suited for scent work and endurance rather than speed. Their muscular build features well-developed shoulders and hindquarters, with a strong, deep chest and a level topline that contributes to their overall noble silhouette.

Coat and Colors

The coat is moderately long, flat-lying, and paired with a dense undercoat providing weather resistance. Distinctive facial furnishings include a bushy beard, moustache, and prominent eyebrows whose hair stands out, giving the breed its characteristic expression. Acceptable colors under the Kennel Club standard include grizzle and white, lemon and white, orange and white, sable and white, tricolor, and white and sable. Nose color is typically black except on white/lemon/white or orange-coated dogs, which have brown noses. Seasonal coat shedding is moderate and usually increases in spring and autumn.

Distinctive Features

The head is domed with a pronounced occipital bone and a clear stop. Their square muzzle exhibits a slight Roman nose with wide nostrils enhancing scenting capability. Eyes are large, oval, dark, and expressive, framed by long eyebrows that prevent visibility obstruction. Ears are narrow, fine, folded inward with oval tips, and covered in long, fine hair. The tail is well-feathered, set high, tapering gradually, and carried slightly curved but never curled over the back. Their gait is characterized by strong drive, good reach, and straight front action with properly aligned hocks.

Gender Differences

Males tend to be slightly taller and more robust in build than females but both sexes share similar coat types and markings. Temperamentally, males may exhibit more dominance tendencies, whereas females are often mildly more reserved but equally affectionate and energetic.

Core Personality Traits

The Basset Griffon Vendeen is intelligent and lively, renowned for its calm, charming disposition balanced by energetic stamina. They possess a friendly confidence, deeply rooted scenting instincts, and a natural hunting drive that often leads them to track and bay enthusiastically when following a scent. Their personality is full of exuberance blended with a loving nature, making them excellent companions.

Social Behavior

While loyal and affectionate with their families, GBGVs can be wary yet non-aggressive towards strangers, preferring to alert their owners with a bark rather than confrontations. They typically get along well with other dogs and, when socialized early, coexist peacefully with cats and other household pets. High prey drive means small animals and rodents are likely to trigger chase behaviors.

Working Instincts

These dogs have a strong scenting and hunting instinct, driving their behavior both on and off the lead. While they respond to training, their independent nature sometimes causes recall challenges if a scent proves too tempting. Their natural purpose as a tracking hound is reflected in their tenacity and eagerness to explore outdoors.

Common Behavioral Challenges

The Basset Griffon Vendeen requires consistent and early training to curb willfulness and stubbornness. Without sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, they are prone to boredom which can manifest in destructive behaviors and escape attempts. They also tend to vocalize more than some breeds, using barking as both a communication tool and alert signal, which requires gentle management especially in confined living spaces.

The Basset Griffon Vendeen is a breed of above-average intelligence but displays an independent streak, making training a patient and consistent endeavor. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods that combine rewards, praise, and engaging activities to capture their attention and motivate learning.

Puppy Training Priorities

From the very start, socialization is paramount. Puppies should be introduced to various people, environments, and other animals soon after vaccinations are complete to lay the foundation for a confident adult dog. Early training focuses on basic commands such as come, sit, stay, heel, quiet, leave it, down, and bed to build structure and clear communication with their owners. Additionally, establishing the owner's role as the pack leader is crucial to prevent dominance issues.

Training Methods That Work

Using short, consistent training sessions works best to keep the GBGV engaged. Varied techniques including scent games, recall training, and gentle clicker training can be particularly effective. Given their scent hound ancestry, incorporating tracking work and scent-based activities provides mental enrichment and satisfies natural instincts.

Advanced Training Potential

These dogs excel in scent work, tracking competitions, and field trials where their natural abilities shine. They can also be trained in obedience and agility to a good standard with dedicated and knowledgeable owners. However, their independent nature means advanced training requires persistence and regular refreshers to maintain reliability.

Common Training Mistakes

Owners who attempt heavy-handed or punitive techniques often struggle with this breed, as the GBGV may shut down or become mistrustful. Inconsistent training or allowing puppies to become spoiled can lead to behavioral challenges such as stubbornness and difficulty in recall. Early intervention and firm but gentle leadership are essential to raising a well-mannered dog.

Age-Specific Interactions

The Basset Griffon Vendeen is a lively and outgoing breed that generally interacts very well with children of all ages. Toddlers require careful supervision due to the dog's energetic and sometimes boisterous play style, which could accidentally knock over young children. Older children and teenagers often form strong bonds with GBGVs, appreciating their affectionate and playful nature.

Teaching Children Proper Interaction

It is important to teach children how to respect the dog's space, avoid sudden movements, and engage calmly, particularly during playtime. Instilling rules about not pulling ears or tails helps to prevent accidental injury or distress to the dog while encouraging positive relationships.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Given their hunting background, GBGVs have high energy and occasional stubborn moments, so ensuring children understand how to appropriately engage with the dog is vital. Their medium size means they can inadvertently knock over smaller kids during exuberant play, so supervision remains necessary, especially with younger family members.

Creating Safe Environments

Supervision during interaction, providing safe retreat spaces such as a crate or quiet area, and maintaining consistent routines all contribute to a safe and harmonious household. The breed's generally patient and tolerant nature makes them a wonderful family dog when managed thoughtfully.

Breed-Specific Health Conditions

With a typical life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, the Basset Griffon Vendeen is considered a relatively healthy breed, but owners should be aware of several breed-specific issues. These include inherited eye conditions such as primary glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), hereditary cataracts, lens luxation, and persistent pupillary membranes (PPM) - all requiring testing via the BVA/KC eye scheme.

Other reported concerns include hypothyroidism, pancreatitis, steroid responsive meningitis, craniomandibular osteopathy, epilepsy, and skin conditions such as allergies and hot spots. Additionally, mammary tumors, mast cell tumors, and other benign or malignant lumps are noted in the breed.

Genetic Testing Requirements

Prospective breeders and owners should ensure health testing through schemes such as the BVA/KC eye scheme to reduce the prevalence of inherited eye diseases. While no compulsory DNA testing schemes are mandated for this breed, responsible breeders conduct comprehensive health screening and provide owners with relevant certifications.

Preventive Healthcare Schedule

Puppies receive initial vaccinations prior to leaving breeders, but owners must follow up with the vaccination schedule typically commencing at 10-12 weeks, with boosters as advised by veterinarians. Regular worming following a recommended schedule is also essential.

Insurance Considerations

Insurance premiums for the breed reflect generally good health but factor in known conditions and location. Many owners opt for lifetime cover to safeguard against unexpected health expenses, particularly given the potential for expensive treatments related to eye and neurological conditions.

Caring for a Basset Griffon Vendeen involves regular grooming, daily exercise, proper nutrition, and health attentiveness to maintain their wellbeing and charm. Their rough coat is relatively low maintenance, requiring weekly brushing to remove dirt and loose hair, with professional hand stripping every few months advised to maintain coat quality and skin health.

Daily Care Routine

A typical day should balance energetic exercise with calm periods; morning and evening walks totaling around two hours, combined with outdoor play in a secure backyard, help meet their physical and mental stimulation needs. Feeding should follow a consistent schedule with high-quality dog food suitable for the dog’s life stage, alongside fresh water at all times.

Living Environment Needs

The breed adapts well to various living arrangements but thrives best in homes with secure backyards due to their curious and escape-prone nature. Urban apartment living is possible if exercise and mental stimulation are adequately provided daily.

Seasonal Care Adjustments

While the GBGV has a weather-resistant coat, owners should be mindful of coat shedding peaks in spring and autumn, increasing grooming frequency during these times. Hot weather calls for careful hydration and avoiding strenuous exercise in peak heat, while winter requires attention to shelter and warmth during outdoor activities.

Senior Care Adaptations

Older Bassets may experience muscle loss, joint stiffness, and decreased stamina necessitating modifications in exercise intensity and diet. Orthopedic beds, ramps, and joint supplements can enhance comfort, with regular vet checks to detect and manage age-related conditions early.

Coat Maintenance Schedule

The Basset Griffon Vendeen’s coat requires weekly brushing lasting about 15 to 30 minutes to remove dead hair and dirt, paying close attention to the beard and moustache areas which tend to trap food residue. Professional hand stripping every 3 to 4 months is recommended to maintain coat texture and skin health.

Professional Grooming Requirements

Owners should budget for a professional grooming visit every few months, costing approximately $50 to $90 per session depending on location and groomer expertise. Hand stripping is the preferred method to preserve the coat’s characteristic rough texture and appearance, more so than clipping or shaving, which may damage the coat.

Home Grooming Techniques

At home, owners can maintain the coat with grooming gloves or slicker brushes, focusing on gentle brushing to avoid irritating the skin. Regular trimming of the beard and moustache helps keep these areas clean and manageable. Nail clipping, ear cleaning, and dental care should be incorporated weekly or biweekly.

Common Grooming Challenges

Owners may face challenges with matting in the beard and around the ears, especially if moisture or food residues accumulate. Seasonal shedding may require extra daily brushing during spring and autumn. Attention to skin allergies is necessary, monitoring for hot spots or irritation and consulting a vet when needed.

Daily Exercise Requirements

Basset Griffon Vendeens are high-energy dogs requiring approximately two hours of physical exercise per day, ideally split between walks, off-lead play in a secure backyard, and mentally stimulating activities. They enjoy exploring scents and benefit from varied environments to satisfy their tracking instincts.

Suitable Activities

Scent tracking games, hikes, agility training, and interactive play are well suited to the breed. They enjoy water but are not strong swimmers due to their body structure, so water activities should always be supervised. Mental stimulation with puzzle toys and scent work helps prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Exercise Restrictions

Puppies should have gradual increases in exercise, avoiding high-impact activities until fully matured to protect joints. Extreme heat should be avoided to prevent overheating, and older dogs may need reduced intensity but consistent daily activity to maintain health.

Mental Stimulation Ideas

Incorporating scent trails, treat-dispensing toys, obedience training sessions, and interactive games is essential for mental health. Regular training refreshers also engage their intelligence and provide a satisfying outlet for their natural behaviors.

Nutritional Requirements

Basset Griffon Vendeens need a balanced diet rich in proteins (approx. 18-22%) and moderate fat (8-12%) to support their active lifestyle. Caloric intake should be adjusted for age, size, and activity level to maintain an optimal body condition.

Feeding Schedule Guidelines

Puppies benefit from three to four small meals daily, gradually transitioning to two meals per day in adulthood. Portion control is critical, with feeding amounts tailored to prevent obesity, a common risk due to their fondness for food.

Special Dietary Considerations

Owners should monitor for allergies, especially to fillers or grain-heavy diets. Supplements such as omega fatty acids and glucosamine can support skin and joint health, particularly in senior dogs.

Weight Management

Maintaining a lean waistline is vital to reduce strain on joints and prevent health issues. Regular weigh-ins, body condition scoring, and exercise routines support healthy weight management throughout life stages.

Expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 for a well-bred, Kennel Club registered Basset Griffon Vendeen puppy from a reputable breeder. Prices may fluctuate based on breeder credentials, lineage, and geographic location within the USA. Pet-quality pups typically command lower prices, while show-quality or champion bloodline puppies fetch premium rates.

Initial setup costs including bedding, leads, bowls, grooming tools, and crate can range from $200 to $300. Monthly expenses for quality food, routine veterinary care, grooming products, and insurance generally fall between $100 and $150, depending on specific care needs and insurance levels.

Insurance for a typical male GBGV aged three in the Midwest averages $40 for basic cover, with comprehensive lifetime policies around $85 monthly. Vet costs including vaccinations, neutering/spaying, and health checks add further financial consideration.

To explore current puppies and prices, you can find Basset Griffon Vendeen for sale on Pets4Homes.

Purchasing a Basset Griffon Vendeen requires careful consideration to ensure the dog's wellbeing and owner satisfaction. Always meet the puppy with its dam at the breeder’s premises to verify health and the environment. Avoid buying puppies unseen or paying money upfront without proper verification to reduce risk of scams.

Finding Ethical Breeders

Seek Kennel Club registered breeders who adhere to standards including breeding limits and health testing. Honest breeders will provide full documentation such as vaccination records, microchip details, and health certificates.

Health Testing Verification

Request evidence of eye tests through the BVA/KC eye scheme, covering specific breed-related conditions like primary glaucoma, POAG, lens luxation, and hereditary cataracts. Discuss any known breed health concerns with breeders before committing.

Puppy Selection Process

Evaluate littermate behavior, looking for confident, curious puppies with even temperaments. Avoid puppies showing signs of excessive shyness or aggression, which may indicate behavioral challenges ahead.

Contract and Guarantee Review

Ensure contracts include health guarantees, clear return policies, and spay/neuter agreements. Be wary of vague agreements or reluctance to provide paperwork, which can be red flags.

Rescue and Adoption Options

Breed-specific rescues may have Basset Griffon Vendeens available for rehoming, offering a chance to provide a loving home to a dog in need. These organizations often provide behavioral assessments and veterinary history to aid adopters.

To explore reputable breeders and rescue groups, you can find Basset Griffon Vendeen for sale on Pets4Homes.