The Briquet Griffon Vendeen is the medium-sized version of the four Griffon Vendeen breeds, Briquet meaning “medium” in French. They were used to hunt a variety of game – primarily roe deer, boar and occasionally also small game. As pack animals, they are specialized in hunting with (and living with) other hounds. Created right around the beginning of World War 1 by breeding down the larger Grand Griffon Vendeen into a smaller size, they are easier to manage than their larger cousins but are definitely still hunting dogs.
The Briquet is a courageous animal that is always ready and willing to charge into a hunt. Because they are frequently active, they need owners that are the same. These active owners should also be well-versed in dogs, preferably with scenthound experience as the breed isn’t recommended for novices. Furthermore, these hounds do best in homes that have large yards in which they can roam. Apartments are a no-go. The Briquet is known for forming strong bonds with his owners and those whom he loves. Because he enjoys people so much he makes for a terrible guard dog so those who are looking for this trait will need to look elsewhere.
The Briquet Griffon is a rare breed, although is recognized by the UKC here in the States. He can be identified by his rough wiry coat, outgoing personality, and of course his natural hunting traits. It is very common for him to do well in homes with other dogs (after all, this is a pack hunting breed). His social and friendly nature also makes him great around strangers and children alike, although he is not recommended in homes with very small children/toddlers. Cats and other small pets will often be regarded as prey. The Briquet is a sturdy and agile breed, with most of them possessing great health. That said, all breeds and mixes can face health issues and the Briquet is no exception. Issues more commonly seen in this hound include epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and ear infections. Typical lifespan is 11-12 years.
Briquets are known for their stubborn and independent natures which makes them more difficult than average when it comes to training. In fact, the breed standard itself actually describes them as being “not quick to obey”! They are intelligent, but not biddable – a trait that holds true for many scenthounds. These dogs benefit when training begins early on, rather than waiting until they are several years old. Not to say that one couldn’t train an older Briquet… only that it may raise the difficulty level even higher. Staying consistent, as well as keeping firm yet fair to the rules one sets, will help the dog learn. They tend to do better when given an over-abundance of praise and rewards. Finally these active hounds greatly benefit from having a job to do, which means obedience, hunting and other dog sports are all fantastic options to exercise both body and mind!
The Briquet Griffon can develop problematic behaviors such as excessive barking or digging if not given enough exercise or mental stimulation . As an active breed, he needs at least an hour minimum of exercise and this does not count time spent running in the yard (which is also important although should be a supplement to his other workouts). After all, he was bred to run for hours on end in France and has enough endurance to do so! Ideally, he should be given opportunities to hunt with his owner. If this isn’t possible, at least give him “hunting adjacent” scenarios on a regular basis such as free running in a fenced area, hikes with a long line, or lessons in a tracking class.
The colors of the Briquet Griffon Vendeen include white/black, white/orange, black/tan, tricolor or fawn with or without white markings. The nose can be either black or brown depending upon coat color. The coat itself is “fairly long” as described in the breed standard although the coarse texture makes it appear slightly shorter since it doesn’t drape like a silky coat would. It is also fairly thick. This coat doesn’t need to be trimmed however it does need regular care to keep it clean and to minimize shedding. The texture of the coat also makes it more susceptible to picking up burrs, sticks and grass which will then need to be plucked out by hand. This is a fun-loving, yet somewhat messy pup that needs the right owner so that he can thrive.
Photo by Alephalpha