Grand griffon vendéen

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog grand griffon vendéen!

Here, you will find all the useful information about grand griffon vendéen. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

There are several versions of the true origins of the Grand Griffon Vendéen. Some breed specialists claim that it is the result of several crosses between the Braques d'Italie, the former Chien Blanc du Roi and the Chien Fauve de Bretagne. However, others think that its ancestors are even more distant, with the addition of the Griffon de Bresse breed or that it would have benefited from the contribution of white grafting dogs, hunting dogs already present at the time of Louis XII.

The Grand Griffon Vendéen was on the verge of extinction at the beginning of the 20th century, especially after the Second World War. A few French breeders managed to keep a few subjects to give it new life, and it was saved a few years later thanks to a serious selection, allowing its official recognition by the International Cynological Federation on April 8, 1969.

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is one of the large French hounds, solidly built, but with a natural elegance and a refined morphology. With its athletic physique, it has a supple gait, a harmonious body, as long as it is high, it fits into a square. His topline is straight, broad and strong, his chest is deep to the elbows, his legs are thick and powerful. The head is moderately long, the skull round and the stop discreetly marked.

The coat of the Grand Griffon Vendéen is medium long, with a hard texture, associated with a dense undercoat. Most dogs are bi-coloured, fawn with white or black and tan markings.

The Grand Griffon Vendeen has a gentle and pleasant temperament towards his family, he remains quite independent by nature and can be suspicious or even aggressive towards strangers or people he does not know well. They are excellent hunters on all types of terrain, even on rough ground, thanks to their formidable sense of smell, and are regularly used for small and large game. This formidable hunter is incredibly versatile in his work and relatively good at guarding, however, his aloofness and strong temperament can be a problem during recalls.

Strict training is essential to make him a balanced dog in all circumstances. An iron hand in a velvet glove, respect and benevolence are the key words to make the Griffon Vendeen a sociable dog with a good head. This large, bold dog needs regular human contact to achieve total fulfilment, as a lack of attention on a daily basis could be harmful to him in the long term.

Adult: The Grand Griffon Vendeen will weigh between 66 to 77 lbs and stand 23.6" to 25.6" at the withers.

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Origins

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is a breed of dog originating from the Vendée region in France. Its ancestors date back to the 16th century, where they were used as hunting dogs for their endurance and ability to track game through difficult terrain. Developed from different lines of French griffons, the Grand Griffon Vendéen was selected for its robustness, exceptional sense of smell, and determination. It is particularly well suited for hunting large game such as deer and wild boar, thanks to its endurance and tenacity.

History

The history of the Grand Griffon Vendéen is marked by its role as a hunting dog for several centuries. Developed in the Vendée region, this breed was used by the French nobility for hunting big game. It descends from various lines of French griffons, selected for their hunting qualities and their ability to work in difficult terrains. In the 19th century, the breed almost disappeared, but thanks to the efforts of enthusiasts, it was preserved and stabilized. Today, the Grand Griffon Vendéen is still appreciated for its hunting skills and character.

Standard

The standard for the Grand Griffon Vendéen breed describes a large dog, measuring between 60 and 68 cm at the withers for males and slightly less for females. Its weight varies from 25 to 30 kg. The body is well proportioned and muscular, with a broad and deep chest. The head is strong with a slightly domed skull, hanging ears, and a distinctive beard. The eyes are dark and expressive, reflecting intelligence and vigilance. The coat is long, hard and tousled, usually fawn with shades of gray or black, providing protection against the weather.

Physical characteristics

The Grand Griffon Vendéen has a robust and rustic appearance. Its body is well-proportioned, with developed musculature and a solid skeleton. Its coat is long, hard, and scruffy, requiring regular maintenance to avoid knots. The typical color of the coat is fawn with shades of gray or black. The head is broad with a strong muzzle, long drooping ears, and a distinctive beard. The eyes are dark and expressive, revealing great intelligence. The tail is carried like a saber, adding to the noble and determined look of this hunting dog.

Character

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is known for its energetic, courageous, and determined temperament. As a hunting dog, it is passionate and tireless, able to track game over long distances and through difficult terrain. In family, it is affectionate, loyal, and sociable, although it can be independent due to its hunting instinct. It is generally good with children and gets along well with other dogs. Its intelligence and desire to please make training easier, although it can sometimes be stubborn. It is a faithful and devoted companion.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the Grand Griffon Vendéen is generally between 12 and 14 years. To ensure a long and healthy life, it is essential to provide a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate veterinary care. Owners must be vigilant about signs of aging and adjust care accordingly, including regular health checks to detect and treat potential problems early. Special attention should be given to their diet and exercise needs to maintain optimal physical fitness throughout their life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is a very active dog that requires a lot of exercise to stay healthy and balanced. It needs at least one to two hours of physical activity per day, including walks, runs, and tracking games. This versatile dog also excels in canine sports such as agility and tracking. Hunting activities are ideal for allowing it to channel its energy and use its natural instincts. Without sufficient exercise, it can become restless and develop destructive behaviors.

Recommended diet

The diet of the Grand Griffon Vendéen must be balanced and adapted to its level of activity. High-quality food, rich in proteins and healthy fats, is essential to maintain its muscles and energy. Portions should be adjusted according to its age, weight, and physical activity. It is recommended to divide the daily ration into two meals to avoid digestive problems. Dietary supplements, such as omega-3 for joints and coat health, may be beneficial but should be given under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Training and obedience

The training of the Grand Griffon Vendéen requires patience, consistency, and a positive approach. Intelligent with a strong hunting instinct, he can sometimes be independent and stubborn. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise, are particularly effective with this breed. It is crucial to start training at a young age to establish solid foundations and encourage desirable behaviors. Early socialization is also essential to make him comfortable with various situations, people, and animals. Short and stimulating training sessions will help to maintain his interest.

Behavior with children

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is generally gentle and patient with children, making it an excellent family companion. Its balanced temperament and affectionate nature allow it to get along well with younger children, as long as they are respectful and guided in their interactions. However, due to its size and energy, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid any unintentional accidents. Teaching children how to interact appropriately with the dog is crucial to ensure a harmonious and safe coexistence.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Grand Griffon Vendéen, thanks to its pack instinct, generally gets along well with other dogs. However, due to its strong hunting instinct, it may be tempted to chase smaller animals, such as cats or rodents. Early socialization and gradual introduction to other pets are essential to encourage harmonious cohabitation. With proper training and supervised interactions, it can learn to live peacefully with a variety of pets, although it is important to remain vigilant about its instinctive reactions.

Grooming needs

The grooming of the Grand Griffon Vendéen requires regular attention due to its long, harsh, and tousled coat. Weekly brushing is necessary to prevent matting and remove dead hair. During shedding season, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infections, and claws should be trimmed if they do not wear down naturally. Teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent dental problems. An occasional bath is sufficient to keep its coat clean and in good condition.

Health

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is generally a robust breed, but it can be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems. Regular veterinary follow-up is essential to detect and treat these issues early. A balanced diet, adequate exercise, and parasite prevention also help maintain good health. Responsible breeders conduct health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize the risks of hereditary diseases and ensure the quality of puppies.

Average price

The average price of a Grand Griffon Vendéen puppy varies depending on the breeder, lineage, and geographical location. In Europe, especially in France, the price of a puppy typically ranges between 800 and 1500 euros. In the United States, the price can vary between 1000 and 2000 dollars. It is important to choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for hereditary diseases and raises their puppies in optimal conditions. Investing in a high-quality puppy can prevent many long-term health problems and ensure a healthy and balanced companion.

Expenses

The annual expenses for a Grand Griffon Vendéen include food, veterinary care, grooming products, and accessories. On average, owners can expect to spend between 1000 and 1500 euros (or 1200 to 1800 dollars) per year. High-quality food accounts for about 400 to 600 euros per year. Routine veterinary care can cost 300 to 500 euros, and grooming as well as accessories add an additional 300 to 400 euros. These costs may vary depending on the dog's health and specific needs.

Name ideas

For a Grand Griffon Vendéen, names like Athos, Bella, César, Diane, Éclair, Fantôme, Hector, Isis, Javelot and Kipling are appropriate. Athos evokes nobility and strength, ideal for a powerful dog. Bella symbolizes beauty and elegance. César is an imperial name, reflecting the majestic stature of the dog. Diane, the goddess of hunting, is perfect for a hunting dog. Éclair recalls speed and agility. Fantôme and Isis add a mystical touch, while Hector, Javelot and Kipling evoke historical and literary figures, enriching the dog's personality.

Legislation and regulation

There is no specific legislation prohibiting the ownership of Grand Griffon Vendéen. As with all dog breeds, owners must adhere to local laws regarding dog ownership, including vaccination requirements, permits, and animal control. In France, this breed is not classified as dangerous and therefore does not require any particular restrictions. However, it is recommended to check local regulations before acquiring a dog to ensure compliance with current legal requirements.

Official recognition

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 282. This recognition highlights the distinctive characteristics of the breed and provides guidelines for breeding. In France, it is also recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC), the leading organization for dog breeds in France. This breed enjoys international recognition within cynological circles, ensuring its promotion and preservation through strict standards and controlled breeding programs.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees for Grand Griffon Vendéen can be obtained from the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) in France and other recognized cynological registries. These documents detail the dogs' bloodlines, ensuring their purity and compliance with breed standards. Pedigrees are essential for breeders and serious owners who wish to maintain the genetic quality and health of the breed. They also allow tracing the history of each dog and guaranteeing the transmission of desirable traits to future generations, while minimizing the risks of hereditary diseases.

Destination and usage

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is mainly used as a hunting dog, specialized in tracking large game such as deer and wild boar. Its exceptional sense of smell, endurance, and determination make it a great companion for hunters. Outside of hunting, this breed can also be an excellent companion dog for active families who can meet its exercise and mental stimulation needs. Its sociable and loyal nature makes it a good guard dog and a faithful companion, well-suited for active family life.

Prohibitions

There is currently no specific ban on owning Grand Griffon Vendéen in countries around the world. This breed is not classified as a dangerous breed and is generally accepted as a hunting and companion dog. However, it is always advisable to check local regulations regarding dog ownership, as some areas may have specific laws on owning large dogs or certain breeds. Make sure to comply with local laws to avoid legal issues.

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