Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

The stubborn yet incredibly endearing adventurer, perfect for those who love hiking and challenges.

🏞 History

This dog descends from the large griffons and shares many traits with other bassets. At the end of the 19th century, selection began for specimens with straight legs, driven by Count d'Elva. Then, Paul Dezamy enhanced its hunting skills, making it highly versatile. Fast and efficient, it was used to track all types of game, from hares to wild boars.

🐕 Breed Profile

A medium-sized hunting dog, with a slender yet sturdy silhouette. Its straight legs give it a smooth and confident gait. It exudes strength and robustness while remaining elegant.

🔍 In Brief

• Hypoallergenic: No

• Weight: 18-20 kg (males), 17-20 kg (females)

• Height: 40-44 cm (males), 39-43 cm (females)

• Life expectancy: 10-12 years

• Physical activity needs: 2 hours/day

❤️ Personality & Compatibility

• Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Affectionate: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

• Protective: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

• Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (noisy, it always has something to say!)

• Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

• Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (instinct at max)

• Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Compatibility:

• Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (nice but a bit rough)

• Animals: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (socialization required)

• Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (sociable but retains its character)

• Apartment: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (possible, but it needs to let off steam!)

This hunting dog needs to move! Even though it can live in an apartment, it requires long walks and play sessions to avoid getting bored (and turning your living room into an improvised hunting ground). Providing a good resting space is essential for it to recharge its batteries. With early training and socialization, it adapts well to family life.

🛠 Hygiene & care

• Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

💰 Budget

• Purchase price: 700-900 €

• Average annual cost: 800-1200 € (veterinarian, accessories, food)