
Hound breed from Vendée, France
The Briquet Griffon Vendéen is a medium-sized, rough-coated French scenthound. It is described as courageous, energetic, independent, friendly, alert, and intelligent. This breed is known for its stamina and determination in the hunt, with a sturdy build suited for dense terrain. Individual temperaments vary, but these traits are commonly reported. The breed's energy level is rated high (4 out of 5), and its trainability is moderate (3 out of 5). Grooming and shedding are both rated moderate (3 out of 5). The Briquet Griffon Vendéen is generally suitable for families with children (3 out of 5) and gets along with other dogs (3 out of 5), but it is less suited to apartment living (2 out of 5). Estimated adult weight is 22–24 kg for both sexes, and estimated height is 48–56 cm for both sexes. Estimated lifespan is 12–14 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
The Briquet Griffon Vendéen was developed in the Vendée region of France before World War I. It was selectively bred down in size from the larger Grand Griffon Vendéen by the Comte d'Elva to create a smaller, faster hound for hunting medium game such as hare and fox. The breed was nearly decimated by the World Wars but was carefully restored. Its origins are in France, specifically the Vendée region, and it belongs to the Hound group. The breed's history is based on available records, but some details may be uncertain.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
No Briquet Griffon Vendéen-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
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Estimated adult weight is 22–24 kg for both males and females. Estimated adult height is 48–56 cm for both sexes. Estimated lifespan is 12–14 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
Commonly reported temperaments include courageous, energetic, independent, friendly, alert, and intelligent. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits.
This breed has a high energy level (rated 4 out of 5), so it likely requires substantial daily exercise. It was bred as a hunting hound with stamina, so regular vigorous activity is important.
The coat is rough and grooming need is rated moderate (3 out of 5). Shedding is also moderate (3 out of 5). Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming may be needed.
Child suitability is rated 3 out of 5, and dog compatibility is also 3 out of 5, suggesting it can be good with children and other dogs when properly socialized. However, individual temperament varies.
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, indicating it is less suited to small spaces. A home with a yard is likely more appropriate given its energy level and hunting background.
The breed originates from the Vendée region of France. It was developed before World War I from the larger Grand Griffon Vendéen, selectively bred by the Comte d'Elva to create a smaller hound for hunting hare and fox.
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.