The Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen is the newest member of AKC’s hound group. These happy, outgoing hounds love to meet new people although they have an independent nature like most other scenthounds. This French breed is very uncommon in the United States, however enjoys a bigger following overseas. Though short in height, GBGVs are hefty and can weigh up to 45 pounds.
In the house, the GBGV tends to be fairly relaxed and calm as long as he is given regular exercise (although he’s not really a couch potato). Once he goes outside, however – he can run and play forever! Don’t let his short-legged looks fool you… he has a lot of stamina and agility, and if he catches the scent of an animal he will be off in an instant! For this reason, he needs plenty of walks and/or other exercise with his owner daily. Don’t count on him exercising himself in the backyard unless you live in an exceptionally interesting place full of critters for him to safely chase – and even then, he must be kept in a fenced yard at all times. Take note – the GBGV doesn’t tend to slow down as he ages like other dogs. He does best with energetic owners who can give him an active, full life for the long-term!
The harsh and wiry coat of the Grand needs only minimal grooming. A quick brush down once a week and the occasional bath should suffice to keep his coat in good condition. Nails, teeth and ears must also be attended to regularly. Like most long-eared dogs, they need cleaning more often than other breeds. While this scenthound does shed, most of the shedding happens seasonally and not year-round.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendeens, because they were bred as pack dogs, get along very well with other dogs! While it is not necessary to have a multi-dog household in order to own a GBGV, it is usually much-appreciated by these hounds, and also makes it easier for an owner to leave for the day without worry about the dog getting lonely. The breed also tends to do well with children. In fact, they love everyone – family, stranger or even postal worker! Aggression or shyness is so atypical in this breed, that when it comes up it usually has more to do with a lack of early socialization. A quick note – they might not be safe around small pets because of their prey drive.
Generally eager to please, the GBGV takes well to training although his independent nature means that he can become easily distracted and/or bored. A series of short obedience sessions generally works better than hour long lessons. Like most other scenthounds, obedience isn’t his first priority but he can be encouraged to learn as long as the trainer is skilled in motivation as well as setting down firm boundaries. Knowing that stubbornness is a common trait in the breed, a trainer or owner should also be prepared to utilize a lot of patience! Because of these traits, the Grand Basset does best when living with an experienced dog owner.
