Overview
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, often called the GBGV, is a rough-coated hound from the Vendée region of France. It is one of the basset-type breeds recognised by the FCI and was developed to hunt in packs.
Today it is used by some hunters with a gun, but many live as family companions. It suits people who enjoy long walks and can accept a dog that is happy to follow a scent and to announce it.
History
The breed descends from the Grand Griffon. At the end of the 19th century the Comte d'Elva began selecting hounds with straight legs, and Paul Dézamy later did most of the work of fixing the type.
Dézamy understood that a hare hunter needed a dog of a certain size and settled on a height of about 43 cm. The breed can work on game from rabbit up to wild boar, and a team of Grand Bassets once won the European Cup for hare.
Appearance
The GBGV is a sturdy, long-bodied hound set low on short legs, with a shaggy, rough-textured outline and a long, expressive head. It is somewhat larger and more upright than the smaller Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen.
The breed standard asks for a dog that looks strong and workmanlike, with good bone and a free, easy stride.
Temperament
Friendly and outgoing, the GBGV generally gets on well with other dogs thanks to its pack-hunting background. It is usually affectionate with people and enjoys being part of family life.
It has a high prey drive, loves to follow scents and is fairly vocal. Training calls for patience and good humour, as the nose often wins over obedience.
Care and exercise
The breed needs regular daily exercise, ideally including time to sniff and explore in a secure area, since it may follow a trail and ignore recall. Fences should be solid.
The rough coat needs brushing a couple of times a week and occasional tidying. Ears should be checked and cleaned regularly.
Health
A UK survey found an average lifespan of about 12 years, with some dogs living far longer. Owners most often reported skin problems, reproductive issues and ear trouble such as otitis and wax build-up. Cancer was the leading cause of death.
