Great gascony blue

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog great gascony blue!

Here, you will find all the useful information about great gascony blue. 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.

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Overall description of the breed

The Great Gascony Blue is a French hunting dog with its origins in the south of France, particularly in the Midi-Pyrénées region. The result of several crosses between the Saint-Hubert and other hound breeds such as the Bleu de Gascogne, it is probably the ancestor of most of the hunting dogs found in the south of France. There are several types, including the Petit Bleu de Gascogne, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne and the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne, all of which share similar morphological traits. The breed came close to extinction at the beginning of the 20ᵉ century, due to a certain lack of interest in favour of English breeds such as the Setter, however, it has seen an acceleration in births in recent decades, thanks to diligent breeders concerned with the preservation of this national heritage. The Great Gascony Blue is the most widespread of all the hound breeds, and thanks to this popular success, it was recognised by the International Cynological Federation on 10 August 1963, and its current standard was published on 24 January 1996.

The Great Gascony Blue is a medium-sized dog, mainly used for shooting and hounding. It is a versatile dog that can be used for tracking small game such as hares, but also for larger prey such as wild boar. Its body is solidly built, longer than it is tall, it fits into a rectangle, its head carriage is slender in contrast to its broad and stocky back. Its chest is amply developed, the wide chest and its thick bone structure, allow it to have great power, necessary during confrontations with animals bigger than it. His skull is round, his muzzle is of good length with a slight stop and dry cheeks. His ears are long, drooping and thick. His coat is of medium length, rough to the touch and of harsh texture, always shorter on the head and ears. The breed standard strictly defines the coat as slate blue with black and white flecks.

The Great Gascony Blue is a serious hunter, obedient and dedicated to work, but it is also a remarkable companion for everyday life. He is particularly attached to the attentions of his family, with whom he gets on wonderfully, especially with the children, whom he appreciates enormously. Affectionate and demonstrative, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is calm in the home, but has no trouble demonstrating its dynamism and boundless energy outside. They need to exercise daily to feel completely fulfilled, always willing to share moments with their owners, especially when they are involved in intense sporting activities, long walks or during their many and endless game hunts. His flair and intelligence make him a favourite with countless hunters, loyal and docile, he has all the qualities of the perfect partner, both at work and at home!

Adult: The Great Gascony Blue will weigh between 44 to 55 lbs and his height at the withers will be approximately 25.5" to 28.3" for males and 24.4" to 26.7" for females.

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Origins

The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a breed of dog originating from the southwest of France, specifically from the Gascony region. Its ancestors date back to the Middle Ages, where they were used by the nobility for hunting big game, such as deer and wild boar. The breed has evolved to become a versatile hunting dog, capable of following difficult tracks over long distances. Its origins are closely linked to other French hunting dog breeds, making it a breed rich in history and cynophilic tradition.

History

The history of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is deeply rooted in the tradition of French hunting. In the Middle Ages, these dogs were prized by the nobility for their ability to track game over long distances and in difficult terrain. The breed has experienced several periods of decline and renewal, particularly after the world wars, where dog populations were severely reduced. Thanks to the efforts of passionate breeders, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne has survived and continues to be valued for its hunting skills and exceptional scent.

Standard

The standard for the Grand Bleu de Gascogne breed defines a dog of large size, measuring between 62 and 72 cm at the withers for males and slightly less for females. The body is long and well-proportioned, with strong musculature. The head is long with a slightly domed skull, hanging ears, and dark expressive eyes. The coat is short and dense, blue marbled with black with well-defined black spots. The tail is long and carried in a saber shape, adding to the elegance of this majestic dog.

Physical characteristics

The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is an imposing and athletic dog, characterized by a long and muscular body, strong legs, and a noble head. Its short and dense coat is typically marbled blue with black, giving the impression of a "blue" coat with the effect of black hairs on a white background. Its long, drooping ears frame a face with expressive eyes, often dark brown, which exude a certain sweetness despite its hunter-like appearance. Its long, tapered tail is carried like a sabre, adding a touch of grace to its silhouette.

Character

The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is known for its balanced temperament, both calm and determined. It is a passionate hunting dog, with exceptional scent and great endurance. In the family, it is affectionate, loyal and patient, although it can be reserved with strangers. Its sociable nature generally makes it compatible with other dogs. It is intelligent and responds well to training, although it can show some independence. Its gentle nature and loyalty make it an excellent companion for active families.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is generally between 10 and 12 years. To ensure a long and healthy life, it is essential to provide a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate veterinary care. Owners should be attentive to signs of aging and adjust care accordingly, including regular health checks to detect and treat potential problems early. Special attention should be paid to its diet and exercise needs to maintain optimal physical condition throughout its life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a hunting dog with high exercise and activity needs. It requires at least one to two hours of intense exercise per day to stay healthy and avoid boredom. Long walks, outdoor runs, and tracking games are essential to satisfy its natural need for movement and mental stimulation. It also excels in canine sports such as canicross and agility. Access to a large outdoor space is ideal for allowing it to expend its energy and explore its environment.

Recommended diet

The diet of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne should be balanced and rich in nutrients to support its high level of activity and musculature. High-quality food, mainly composed of animal proteins, is essential. The 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 joint and coat health, can be beneficial, but should be given under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Training and obedience

Training a Grand Bleu de Gascogne requires patience, consistency, and a positive approach. Intelligent and possessing 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 strong foundations and encourage desirable behaviors. Early socialization is also essential to make him comfortable with various situations, people, and animals. Short, stimulating training sessions will help maintain his interest.

Behavior with children

The Grand Bleu de Gascogne 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, provided they are respectful and supervised in their interactions. However, due to its size and energy, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid unintentional accidents. Teaching children how to interact appropriately with the dog is crucial to ensure a harmonious and safe cohabitation.

Compatibility with Other Animals

Thanks to its pack instinct, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne 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 peacefully live with a variety of pets, although it is important to remain vigilant about its instinctive reactions.

Grooming needs

Grooming the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is relatively simple thanks to its short and dense coat. A weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hair and maintain the shine of its coat. Baths are only necessary occasionally, typically when it is particularly dirty. It is crucial to regularly check and clean its floppy ears to prevent infections. Claws should be trimmed regularly, and teeth should be brushed to prevent dental problems. A regular grooming routine contributes to the overall health of the dog.

Health

The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a generally robust breed, but like all dogs, it can be subject to certain health conditions. Common problems include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and some eye disorders. Regular veterinary follow-up is essential to detect and treat these problems early. A balanced diet, adequate exercise, and parasite prevention also contribute to maintaining good health. Responsible breeders conduct health tests on their breeders to minimize the risks of hereditary diseases and ensure the quality of the puppies.

Average price

The average price of a Grand Bleu de Gascogne puppy varies depending on several factors, including the breeder's reputation, lineage, and geographic location. In Europe, particularly in France, the price of a puppy generally ranges from 800 to 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.

Expenses

The annual expenses for a Grand Bleu de Gascogne 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 costs about 400 to 600 euros per year. Routine veterinary care can cost 300 to 500 euros, and grooming and accessories add approximately 300 to 400 euros. These costs can vary depending on the dog's health and specific needs.

Name ideas

For a Grand Bleu de Gascogne, 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. Caesar is an imperial name, reflecting the majestic stature of the dog. Diane, goddess of the hunt, 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 Bleu de Gascogne. As with all dog breeds, owners must comply with local laws regarding dog ownership, including requirements for vaccinations, 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 Bleu de Gascogne is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard No. 22. This recognition highlights the distinctive characteristics of the breed and provides breeding guidelines. In France, it is also recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC), the reference organization for dog breeds in France. This breed benefits from international recognition within canine circles, ensuring its promotion and preservation through strict standards and controlled breeding programs.

Pedigrees

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

Destination and usage

The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is mainly used as a hunting dog, specialized in tracking big game such as deer, wild boar, and sometimes fox. 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 for active families who can meet its needs for exercise and mental stimulation. Its sociable and loyal nature makes it a good watchdog and a faithful companion, well-suited for active family life.

Prohibitions

There is currently no specific ban regarding the possession of Grand Bleu de Gascogne in countries worldwide. This breed is not classified among dangerous breeds and is generally accepted as a hunting and companion dog. However, it is always advisable to check local regulations regarding dog ownership, as some regions may have specific laws regarding the possession of large dogs or certain breeds. Make sure to comply with local laws to avoid any legal issues.

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