Griffon Nivernais Complete Breed Guide

Originally from France, Griffon Nivernais have a long history as fearless hunters. These scenthounds almost disappeared during the French Revolution, but some careful breeding brought them back to remove troublesome wolves. This breed has evolved over the years. Though still fearless hunters, Griffon Nivernais can be calm, friendly family members.

Originally from a region just south of Paris, the ancestors of the Griffon Nivernais were seen as far back as the 13th century. They were tough dogs that could hunt wolves and wild boar. They were also a favorite among royalty, but they all but disappeared during the French Revolution. Wolves started posing problems with local livestock, and the breed was brought back to push them out. It worked. From the 1200's to present, the breed has evolved. What we see today are big scruffy scenthounds with a lot of endurance. Though still fearless hunters, Griffon Nivernais have an otherwise calm personality and are friendly family members.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Griffon Nivernais like to talk, which is one of the reasons they do best in more rural settings. Bred for stamina, they have a whole lot of it and must get plenty of exercise each day. They prefer living in colder climates. Affectionate and loving dogs, Griffon Nivernais make great playmates for kids.

Exercise & Activity

An ideal day for a Griffon Nivernais would include hunting alongside their owner. Other activities these scenthounds find enjoyable are agility and tracking. You can expect to carve out up to two hours a day for exercising your Griffon Nivernais.

Unless you’re a wolf, it’s likely these dogs will be friendly toward you. Griffon Nivernais are known to be one of the friendlier hunting dogs. They are used to working in groups and like to be around other dogs. However, they might be a bit too friendly toward small pets due to their innate hunting instincts. These scenthounds have a bit of a stubborn streak, and you might need to be extra firm in what you ask of them. They are also very talkative dogs. Griffon Nivernais that receive consistent training make the best family members.

Griffon Nivernais have a “just-rolled-out-of-bed” sort of look. Their bushy eyebrows and mustaches make them very expressive dogs. Their coat is usually a shade of gray, and a weekly brushing with a bristle brush helps remove dead hair from their long fur. Bathe only when necessary - if done too often, it can strip their coat of natural oils.