Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen Complete Breed Guide

Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens are medium-sized scenthounds from France. They like to chase small furry animals and have been doing so for hundreds of years. Their shorter relative is usually a more popular choice, but both have a similar personality and need ongoing training. Griffon Vendéens are curious by nature; they love to play and be with their families.

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens likes to chase. These scruffy scenthounds were used to hunt small, furry game for hundreds of years. A “Petit” variety of the breed with much shorter legs was developed later on and is more commonly seen today. Large or small, all Basset Griffon Vendéens need ongoing training and someone to be the rule-keeper. Little keeps these tails from wagging, though. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens love their family’s attention and are a playful bunch.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens like to explore and bounce around the backyard! They will especially love it if they have a dog play with. Agile and athletic, you’ll need to make sure that your backyard has a high fence because they have no problem escaping if something furry catches their eye. When excited, these hounds are known to be both nosy and noisy. They do best in more rural environments or homes with a lot of space between them. When exercise needs are met, Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens are pretty easygoing, playful pets. They have a strong hunting instinct, but when raised together, some can be trained to be around cats.

Exercise & Activity

Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens like to exercise their noses as well as their legs. Fun activities for these swift scenthounds include hunting, playing at the dog park, running, and agility competitions. These dogs can also jump and enjoy fetching the Frisbee too!

Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens are curious and quick, which makes them adept hunters. This also makes them a handful at times. They have a bit of the stubborn hound in them, and housetraining is one particular area that requires some patience. When bored, these shaggy dogs become extra chatty and might even dig you a nice hole in the backyard. However, give Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens a good dose of training and daily activity, and many of these unwanted behaviors generally disappear. These hounds are very social and welcoming to new people and new dogs.

Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens have a tousled wiry coat that needs some TLC. These shaggy dogs require brushing a few times a week. Their long, drop ears are furry and can also get dirty. Be sure to wipe the inside of the ear with a vet-approved solution regularly to keep them healthy. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens also have a lot of facial fur that will need the help of a professional groomer every couple months.