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Meet The AKC’s Newest Breed: The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

Have you heard of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen? The answer to that question may very well be no. This isn’t surprising: there are actually only about 400 in the US, and likely a similar number in Canada. These cute pups were recently added to the ranks of the AKC’s officially recognized breeds. Joining the Hound Group, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen—or GBGV for short—was recognized January 1, 2018, along with another adorable pooch, the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje. There are now 192 recognized breeds … and we love them all! Whether it’s the playful Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, the charming Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, or everyone’s favorite beagle, each breed brings a unique joy and charm. If you’re a fan of beagles, you might enjoy our feature article, Celebrating Everyone’s Favorite Beagle. Read on as a local vet discusses the GBGV.

For decades, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) has charmed dog lovers throughout Europe, earning praise for its friendly temperament and skilled hunting abilities. Recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2018, this sturdy, medium-sized hound is now capturing the hearts of US enthusiasts. Known for its distinctive rough coat and long, narrow body, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen was originally developed in France to hunt rabbits and hare. Today, it is celebrated for its sociable nature, making it an excellent companion for active families. Evidence shows that consistent training and positive reinforcement can help harness the GBGV’s natural curiosity, making it a loving and obedient pet. As the newest member of the AKC roster, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen invites dog owners to discover its unique blend of heritage, intelligence, and endearing charm. Its distinctive personality is sure to delight families and fanciers alike.

History

Originally bred in France to hunt rabbits and hares, the GBGV is known for having both speed and stamina. These scenthounds actually can be traced back to the 16th century, and are the ancestors of the Griffon Vendeen, which looks quite similar.

Temperament

These fluffy pooches are known for being smart, sociable, and laid back. They are great with kids, and tend to easily make friends with other pets. In fact, they get lonely without companions, and are generally happier with friendly, furry playmates than they are as only pets. Playful and lighthearted, the GBGV does need proper training from puppyhood, as otherwise they can get bossy.

Exercise

Active and courageous, the GBGV is definitely not a couch potato: they need quite a bit of exercise, even into their senior years. They tend to get very, very interested in following scents. A good leash and/or a fenced yard is a must with these guys: otherwise, they are apt to follow their noses right into mischief! This doesn’t mean that the GBGV won’t thrive in an apartment, however. They typically do just fine with proper exercise.

Appearance and Grooming

The GBGV isn’t a particularly large dog: they weigh about 40-45 pounds, on average. They have a rough but straight coat that looks tousled . . . almost like the doggy equivalent of ‘beach waves.’ They do need regular brushing, however, as otherwise they’ll get quite matted. These pretty pups are typically white with yellow, orange, black, brown, or grey accents. It’s worth noting that their claws grow very quickly, so they need regular pawdicures. Good ear care is also important. Ask your vet for more information.

Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen – A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

When was interbreeding with Petit Basset banned?

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV), a breed recognized by the American Kennel Club on January 1, 2018, has a storied lineage dating back to the 16th century. Historically bred in France for hunting rabbits and hares, this breed’s development included a distinct prohibition on interbreeding with the Petit Basset to maintain its unique characteristics. The ban on interbreeding with the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen was established in 1975 to preserve and differentiate the specific traits and working abilities of both breeds.

Are they suitable for apartment living?

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) can adapt well to apartment living provided they receive sufficient exercise. Despite their need for physical activity to manage their innate hunting instincts and high energy levels, GBGVs can thrive in smaller living spaces. Regular walks and opportunities to explore varied environments help prevent behavioral issues linked to their scent-driven nature. Proper training and consistent exercise routines ensure these dogs remain content and well-adjusted, even without a large yard.

What are effective training techniques?

Effective training techniques for the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) include positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise, which encourage good behavior. Consistency is crucial in training sessions to establish clear expectations. Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended to help these dogs develop good habits and prevent bossiness. Given their sociable nature, GBGVs respond well to interactive and engaging activities that challenge their intelligence. Setting boundaries from an early age is important, as these dogs can be quite independent and may display stubbornness if not properly guided.

Do they participate in mantrailing?

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) possesses a strong scent-tracking ability, making them well-suited for mantrailing activities. Originally bred to hunt rabbits and hares, their keen sense of smell and inherent drive to follow scents equip them for tracking work. Mantrailing involves dogs tracking human scents over various terrains, and the GBGV’s stamina and persistence make them excellent candidates for this task. Their intelligence and eagerness to please also contribute to their effectiveness in training sessions focused on scent work, including mantrailing.

How do they interact with small children specifically?

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) is known for its sociable and laid-back temperament, making it well-suited for families with small children. These dogs are notably patient and enjoy the companionship of kids, often forming strong bonds with younger family members. Their playful nature and gentle disposition help them interact positively with children, provided that interactions are supervised to ensure the safety of both the dog and the child. Proper socialization and training from puppyhood further enhance their ability to coexist harmoniously with small children.

Do you have questions about caring for a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen? Call us, your pet hospital in Live Oak, FL, anytime! For comprehensive care that goes beyond answers and ensures your pet’s health through preventive measures, consider our Vet Wellness & Pet Vaccinations services. Regular check-ups and timely vaccinations can help keep your pet healthy and happy for years to come.

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