Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
A long-bodied, shaggy French scenthound bred to hunt hare. Cheerful, sociable and good with families, but stubborn, vocal and driven by a powerful nose.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen scorecard
Overview
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a long-bodied, shaggy-coated French scenthound from the Vendée region, bred to hunt hare and other game. Despite the "Basset" in its name — which refers to its short legs rather than small size — it is a medium-sized, substantial dog, standing roughly 39–44 cm and weighing around 18–20 kg, with a rough, wiry coat, a profuse beard and eyebrows, and a cheerful, characterful expression.
The breed is recognised by The Kennel Club in the Hound group and has a small but devoted following in Britain. Affectionately known as the "GBGV", it is the larger of the two Griffon Vendéen bassets. Friendly, sociable and good with families, it combines an engaging personality with the independence, stamina and powerful nose of a true working hound.
Good to know — a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen needs plenty of space and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The Griffon Vendéen hounds originated in the Vendée region of western France, descending from older French griffon (rough-coated) scenthounds bred to work the region's dense, thorny cover. The Grand Basset was developed as a short-legged hound capable of hunting hare at a pace a hunter on foot could follow, while still covering ground efficiently.
The breed and its smaller cousin, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, share common roots but were eventually separated into distinct breeds. The Grand Basset remains, at heart, a working pack hound, and its hardy build and weatherproof coat reflect generations spent hunting in tough terrain.
Temperament & family fit
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is typically cheerful, outgoing and sociable, with a happy, even temperament that makes it a delightful companion for active families. Most are good with children and enjoy the company of other dogs, reflecting their pack heritage, and they bring a real sense of fun and character to a household.
That sunny nature comes with a strong streak of independence and a hound's determination once a scent is found. They are not aggressive but they can be stubborn and easily distracted, and they have a tendency to be vocal. A bored GBGV can become mischievous, so the breed thrives on company, activity and engagement.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Active homes with plenty of space
Training & intelligence
Bred to hunt independently, the GBGV is intelligent but headstrong, and it does not offer the ready obedience of a biddable companion breed. Reward-based, patient and consistent training works best, ideally started early and kept varied and engaging to hold the dog's interest.
Recall is a particular challenge, as a hound on a scent can become single-minded and oblivious to commands, so many owners rely on long lines and secure areas for off-lead freedom. Channelling the breed's instincts into scent work or tracking suits it far better than repetitive obedience.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Channel energy into training games & enrichment
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen typically needs 90 minutes to 2 hours a day (roughly 90–120 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
The rough, wiry double coat needs regular care to stay in good condition. Brushing or combing a couple of times a week helps prevent matting, particularly around the beard, legs and underside, and the coat may need occasional hand-stripping or tidying. The ears should be checked and cleaned regularly, with routine nail and dental care completing the routine.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Feed a complete, good-quality diet suited to the dog's size, age and activity level, split into two meals a day. As a long-bodied hound that can be prone to weight gain, it is important to keep the dog lean to reduce strain on the back and joints, and to monitor portions and treats carefully.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen health & costs
Before bringing a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£400–600 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£25–45 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£120–300 / year
Occasional pro + home brushing
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is generally considered a healthy, hardy breed with a typical lifespan of around 12–14 years, though as a comparatively uncommon breed the body of breed-specific health data is smaller than for popular pedigrees. Responsible breeders use available health screening and aim to maintain the breed's robust constitution.
As a long-backed, drop-eared hound, certain general concerns deserve attention: keeping the dog lean protects the spine and joints, and the long ears need regular care to prevent infection. Eye conditions are recognised in some Griffon Vendéen lines, so buying from health-conscious breeders is sensible. The conditions below combine breed-relevant concerns with those typical of long-bodied scenthounds.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Ear infections (otitis) — the long, hairy ears trap moisture and debris and need regular checking and cleaning.
- Intervertebral disc disease / back problems — a risk in long-backed dogs; keeping the dog lean and avoiding excessive jumping helps.
- Eye conditions — disorders such as those affecting the lens or retina are recognised in the breed type; choose health-tested lines.
- Hip dysplasia — a developmental joint disorder seen across many breeds; a lean body condition reduces strain.
- Obesity — easy to develop in a food-motivated hound and a driver of joint and back problems.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) — a risk in deeper-chested dogs; be aware of the warning signs.
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Cheerful, sociable and good with children
- Robust and characterful companion
Things to consider
- Independent and easily led by its nose
- Vocal, and the rough coat needs regular care
Compare the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
See how the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
More breeds like the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
Same breed group
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Whippet
A gentle, quiet "sofa sprinter" — happy to lounge at home between short bursts of explosive running.
Greyhound
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Similar temperament
Black Norwegian Elkhound
A compact black-coated Scandinavian spitz-type hunting hound, smaller than the grey Elkhound. Bold, alert and loyal, with a thick shedding coat, an independent streak and a strong tendency to bark.
Norwegian Buhund
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Norwegian Elkhound
An ancient Norwegian spitz hunting dog used to track and bay big game such as elk. Bold, loyal and hardy, but independent, vocal and a heavy shedder.
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
A small, scruffy French scenthound bred to hunt rabbit in the Vendée. Happy, outgoing and sociable, but a determined worker with a strong nose and a loud bark.
Similar size, different type
Border Collie
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Frequently asked questions
Why is the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen called a "Basset" if it isn't small?
In this breed, "Basset" refers to its short legs rather than a small overall size. The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is actually a medium-sized, substantial dog, standing roughly 39 to 44 cm and weighing around 18 to 20 kg. It is a long-bodied French scenthound from the Vendée region, and the larger of the two Griffon Vendéen bassets.
What is the temperament of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen?
The GBGV is typically cheerful, outgoing and sociable, with a happy, even temperament. Most are good with children and enjoy the company of other dogs, reflecting their pack heritage, and they bring real character and fun to a household. That sunny nature comes with a strong streak of independence, a hound's determination on a scent, and a tendency to be vocal.
Is the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen a good family dog?
Yes, for the right active home. Its friendly, characterful nature makes it a good family companion, and it is generally good with children and other dogs. However, its considerable exercise needs, independence and tendency to follow its nose and to bark call for committed, hands-on ownership. Given enough activity and company, it is a cheerful and rewarding dog.
Is the GBGV easy to train?
It is intelligent but headstrong, and does not offer the ready obedience of a biddable companion breed. Reward-based, patient and consistent training works best, started early and kept varied to hold its interest. Recall is a particular challenge, as a hound on a scent can become single-minded, so many owners use long lines and secure areas for off-lead freedom.
How much exercise does a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen need?
It is an energetic hound that needs well over an hour of varied daily activity, including the chance to use its nose and run in safe, enclosed spaces. Without enough physical and mental stimulation it can become bored, vocal and prone to unwanted behaviour, so it suits active owners who enjoy the outdoors rather than a quiet, sedentary household.
How much grooming does the GBGV's coat need?
Its rough, wiry double coat needs regular care. Brushing or combing a couple of times a week helps prevent matting, particularly around the beard, legs and underside, and the coat may need occasional hand-stripping or tidying. The ears should be checked and cleaned regularly, with routine nail and dental care completing the routine.
How long does a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen live?
The GBGV is generally considered a healthy, hardy breed with a typical lifespan of around 12 to 14 years. As a comparatively uncommon breed, the body of breed-specific health data is smaller than for popular pedigrees, but responsible breeders use available screening and aim to maintain its robust constitution.
What health issues should GBGV owners watch for?
As a long-backed, drop-eared hound, certain general concerns deserve attention: keeping the dog lean protects the spine and joints, and the long ears need regular care to prevent infection. Eye conditions are recognised in some Griffon Vendéen lines, so buying from health-conscious breeders who screen their stock is sensible. Always discuss preventive care with your vet.
Are Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens bark a lot?
Vocal / alert barker. They can be quite vocal, so early training and enough exercise and stimulation help keep barking in check.
Are Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens suit flats or smaller homes?
Needs plenty of space. A Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.
Sources
- The Kennel Club (UK) — Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/hound/grand-basset-griffon-vendeen/
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) — Breed nomenclature and standards: https://www.fci.be/en/Nomenclature/
- PDSA — Dog health and care advice: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/
- Blue Cross — Dog breeds and care advice: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.