Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen — breed guide
A long, low, shaggy French hound bred to hunt hare through brush — the harsh coat is armour against brambles.
At a glance
- Group
- hound
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 18–20 kg (40–44 lb)
- Life span
- 13–15 years
- Coat
- Harsh, rough, tousled double coat
Living with a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Moderate shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Happy · Independent · Bold · Chatty
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Ear infections
- Patellar luxation
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen good with kids?
Generally yes. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéens are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.