Dog breeds / Grand Griffon Vendéen
Photo: Rosa Bonheur · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Dog breed
Grand Griffon Vendéen
The Grand Griffon Vendéen is a sturdy, friendly hound-type dog from the Vendée region of France, originally bred for hunting hare and other game over rough terrain. At home he is affectionate with his family, sociable, and generally good with children and other dogs he grows up with, though his strong scent drive means he can wander off after an interesting smell. He tends to be independent and thoughtful rather than clingy, and can be stubborn when he decides a task is not worth his time.
Day to day, he needs regular walks, time to sniff and explore, and a securely fenced space, since he is not a dog to trust off-leash in open areas. Mental work such as scent games and short training sessions suits him well. He does best with consistent, patient training that uses food and praise, and he should not be left alone for long stretches.
Good for: Active families with a securely fenced yard
| Size | large |
| Height | 24–27 in |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | low |
| Origin | France |
His strong scent drive and independence mean he needs patient, consistent training and a secure fence from the start.
Living with a Grand Griffon Vendéen
Exercise
Plan for at least an hour of walking or active play daily, including time to sniff. He needs a secure fence, as his hunting instincts can override recall.
Grooming
His wiry, weather-resistant double coat needs brushing a few times a week to prevent tangles. Hand-stripping or trimming every few months keeps it tidy, and bathing only as needed.
Health
Grand Griffon Vendéens can be prone to certain orthopedic and eye conditions, as well as ear infections because of their floppy ears. Ask your vet about screening and what to watch for in a puppy's parents.
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Progressive retinal atrophy
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Grand Griffon Vendéen
Weather
Watch above 72°F, stop at 82°F
Coat or short walks below 32°F. Big dogs overheat before small ones: water on every warm walk, and pavement checked with the back of your hand.
Right now
Latest dog food recalls
Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame
Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5
Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame
Questions owners ask
Do Grand Griffon Vendéens shed a lot?
Their wiry double coat sheds lightly. Regular brushing a few times a week keeps loose hair and tangles under control.
Can a Grand Griffon Vendéen live in an apartment?
It can work if he gets daily walks and mental activity. His size and energy suit homes with room and access to outdoor exercise.
Do Grand Griffon Vendéens bark a lot?
They are vocal and may bark or bay, especially when bored or excited. Consistent training and enough exercise help reduce excess noise.
Good picks for a Grand Griffon Vendéen
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