Griffon nivernais

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog griffon nivernais!

Here, you will find all the useful information about griffon nivernais. 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 Griffon Nivernais has very ancient French origins, with several ancestors such as the Chien des Hautes-Pyrénées or the Chiens Gris de Saint-Louis (a breed that has disappeared) or even Segusian type canines dating back to the time of the Gauls. Already used as a hunting dog during the reign of King Louis XI, it was part of the French royal packs for over two centuries. The Griffon Nivernais came close to extinction at the end of the 19ᵉ century and benefited from the addition of Fox-hound, Otterhound and Griffon Vendéen blood, with several objectives such as improving some of its physical qualities, carrying out richer selection work and being able to give back to the breed all the presence it is known for today. The Griffon Nivernais was officially registered by the International Cynological Federation on 15 December 1959.

Appreciated for its resistance to effort and its fearlessness, the Griffon Nivernais is a medium-sized dog with extraordinary stamina that can travel long distances without feeling the slightest fatigue. Longer than it is tall, its body is rectangular, rather slender and high on legs, its chest is broad and its shoulders are nicely rounded. His topline is clean and straight and his tail of good length is set on high on solidly built loins, always pointing upwards when the dog is active. The head is of good length, broad and flat, with a faint stop. Its coat is rough, hard and thick, which gives it good protection against the weather and the cold, its eyebrows are always bushy without ever obstructing the eyes. The coat is solidly coloured, mainly fawn with lighter or darker shades, with markings on the cheeks, eyebrows and chest, white patches on the chest are tolerated.

The Griffon Nivernais has a rustic appearance, solidly built, it benefits from good adaptation faculties, close to its masters, it needs regular human contact to be totally fulfilled and balanced. Dynamic and athletic, the Griffon Nivernais' energy requirements are high and must absolutely be met to make him a calm and docile companion indoors. Like all pack dogs, they do not tolerate solitude, so they must be offered regular play activities with their family or in pairs to stimulate their strong hunting instincts and maintain their very fine sense of smell. Versatile and attentive to its environment, the Griffon Nivernais is sociable with its fellow dogs and will suit most people as a companion dog.

Adult: The Griffon Nivernais will weigh approximately 55 lbs and its adult height will be 21.5" to 23.6" for the male and 21" to 23" for the female.

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Origins

The Nivernais Griffon finds its origins in France, in the Nièvre region, at the heart of the Massif Central. This ancient breed descends from hunting dogs used in the Middle Ages by the French nobility to track large game, especially boars and deer. The Nivernais Griffon is the result of crossings between local dogs and dogs imported during the Crusades, particularly rough-haired dogs. This combination gave birth to a robust, enduring dog with exceptional scent skills, perfectly suited to difficult terrains.

History

The history of the Nivernais Griffon is rich and varied, marked by periods of glory and decline. In the 18th century, it was one of the favorite hunting dogs of French nobles. However, after the French Revolution, the breed nearly disappeared due to the reduction of royal hunts. In the early 20th century, passionate breeders undertook to resurrect the breed by using Griffon fauves de Bretagne and other local dogs. Thanks to their efforts, the Nivernais Griffon regained its popularity and is now recognized for its qualities as a hunter and loyal companion.

Standard

The standard of the Nivernais Griffon breed describes a dog of medium size, measuring between 55 and 60 cm at the withers for males, and between 53 and 58 cm for females. The weight varies between 25 and 30 kg. It has a rough, thick and unkempt coat, often of fawn or grey color. The head is proportionate with bushy eyebrows and drooping ears. The eyes are bright and expressive. The body is muscular and robust, with a deep chest and strong legs. The tail is carried like a saber, adding to its noble and rustic appearance.

Physical characteristics

The Nivernais Griffon is distinguished by its rough and bristly coat, which protects it from the elements and brambles during hunting in the forest. Its body is well-proportioned, muscular and robust, giving it great endurance. Its expressive head, with thick eyebrows and drooping ears, gives it a noble and determined appearance. Its dark and lively eyes reflect its intelligence and liveliness. Its strong and straight legs allow it to cover long distances without getting tired. Its overall appearance is that of a rustic and powerful dog.

Character

The Nivernais Griffon is known for its energetic, courageous, and loyal character. It is a passionate hunting dog with exceptional scent and great tenacity. In the family, it is affectionate, sociable, and protective. It is intelligent and learns quickly, although it can sometimes be independent. This dog needs mental and physical stimulation to be happy and balanced. It is generally friendly with other dogs and can get along with children and other pets if well socialized from a young age.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the Nivernais Griffon is generally 12 to 14 years. With proper care, balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups, some individuals can live even longer. It is important to monitor their health, especially as they age, to quickly prevent and treat any health issues. Regular physical activity and a stimulating environment also contribute to their longevity and overall well-being. Owners should be vigilant of signs of aging and adjust care accordingly.

Exercise and activity needs

The Nivernais Griffon is a very active dog that needs a lot of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Long walks, runs, and interactive games are essential to meet his high energy needs. He particularly enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and hunting, which allow him to use his natural skills. Without adequate exercise, he can become bored and develop destructive behaviors. A fenced yard is ideal, but he can also adapt to apartment living if sufficiently stimulated.

Recommended diet

The diet of the Nivernais Griffon must be balanced and adapted to its high energy needs. High quality food, rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, is essential. It is recommended to feed this dog with portions appropriate to its weight and activity level, usually divided into two meals per day. Treats should be given in moderation to prevent obesity. A specific diet for active or working dogs may be beneficial to support its metabolism and overall health.

Training and obedience

The education of the Nivernais Griffon must begin from a young age to establish good habits and reinforce obedience. This dog is intelligent and learns quickly, but can also be stubborn. A gentle but firm approach, with positive reinforcement techniques such as rewards and praise, is the most effective. Socialization is also crucial to avoid shyness or aggression. The Nivernais Griffon responds well to basic obedience exercises and enjoys stimulating mental activities like puzzle games.

Behavior with children

The Nivernais Griffon is generally very gentle and affectionate with children, making it an excellent family companion. Its patient nature and energy make it an ideal playmate for young ones. However, as with any dog, it is important to supervise interactions between the Nivernais Griffon and very young children to avoid any accidental incidents. Teaching children to treat the dog with respect and gentleness is essential for harmonious cohabitation. With good socialization, the Nivernais Griffon can become a loyal protector and friend to children.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Nivernais Griffon is generally sociable and gets along well with other pets when properly socialized. It can harmoniously coexist with other dogs and even cats if introduced at a young age. Its playful and curious temperament often makes it friendly towards new companions. However, as with any dog, initial introductions should be done in a controlled and gradual manner to ensure good compatibility. Initial supervision is recommended until all animals have become accustomed to each other.

Grooming needs

The Nivernais Griffon requires regular grooming to maintain its hard and dense coat in good condition. A weekly brushing helps prevent knots and tangles, especially for longer-haired varieties. A monthly bath is generally sufficient to keep its coat clean and healthy. It is also important to regularly check and clean its ears to prevent infections. Nails should be trimmed regularly, and teeth brushed frequently to maintain good oral hygiene.

Health

The Nivernais Griffon is generally a robust breed, but it can be prone to certain specific health conditions. These include respiratory problems due to its short muzzle, eye disorders such as cataracts, and skin issues. It is also susceptible to hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. Regular visits to the veterinarian for routine check-ups and vaccinations are essential to prevent and manage these health problems. A healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet also contribute to its longevity.

Average price

The average price of a Nivernais Griffon puppy can vary considerably depending on various factors such as the quality of the lineage, the reputation of the breeder, and the geographic location. Generally, one can expect to pay between 800 and 1500 euros for a puppy from a reputable breeder. In the United States, the price can range from 1000 to 1800 dollars. It is crucial to choose a responsible breeder who respects ethical breeding standards and performs the necessary health tests to ensure a healthy puppy.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Nivernais Griffon can vary but generally include food, veterinary care, grooming, and various accessories. On average, these expenses can be estimated at around 800 to 1200 euros per year. In the United States, this translates to a range of 900 to 1300 dollars. These costs can increase in case of health problems or specific care needs. It is important to budget for unexpected expenses and ensure good insurance coverage for veterinary care.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for a Nivernais Griffin can reflect his personality and distinctive appearance. "Rusty" recalls the color of his coat. "Hunter" evokes his hunting skills. "Bella" means beautiful, perfect for a graceful female. "Max" is a classic and strong name. "Griff" is short and relevant. "Oscar" is elegant and dignified. "Milo" is friendly and sweet. "Duke" inspires nobility. "Zara" is exotic and unique. "Rex" symbolizes royalty and strength, ideal for a characterful dog.

Legislation and regulation

With regard to legislation and regulations, the Nivernais Griffon is not subject to any particular restrictions in most countries. This breed is generally well accepted and is not listed as a dangerous or prohibited dog. However, it is always recommended to check local regulations, as some cities or regions may have specific restrictions regarding dog ownership. In general, the Nivernais Griffon is perceived as a safe companion dog suitable for various environments.

Official recognition

The Nivernais Griffon is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 17. This breed is also recognized by other major international registries such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Kennel Club (KC) in the UK, and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). The official breed organization in the country of origin is the "Club du Griffon Nivernais", based in France. These recognitions ensure that the breed is well established and respected worldwide.

Pedigrees

The available pedigrees for the Nivernais Griffon allow to guarantee the purity of the lineage and to track the genetic history of the puppies. Serious breeders generally provide pedigrees certified by recognized organizations, ensuring that the dogs meet the breed standards. These documents include detailed information about the puppy's ancestors, health tests performed, and titles obtained in dog shows. Owning a dog with an official pedigree can be important for those who wish to participate in shows or breeding programs.

Destination and usage

The Nivernais Griffon is above all a hunting dog, appreciated for its exceptional sense of smell and endurance. It is mainly used for hunting big game, such as wild boar and deer, but it can also adapt to hunting small game. Besides its hunting skills, this breed makes an excellent companion dog thanks to its affectionate and sociable nature. It is also used in some canine sports activities such as agility and tracking, where it can express its energy and intelligence.

Prohibitions

Currently, the Nivernais Griffon is not subject to any particular restrictions in most countries. It is not classified among dangerous or regulated dog breeds, which facilitates its adoption and ownership in various jurisdictions. However, it is always recommended to check local and regional laws, as some areas may have specific restrictions regarding pets. Generally, the Nivernais Griffon is perceived as a safe dog and suitable for family life.

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