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Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
Hound breed from Vendée region, France
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a medium-sized, long-backed, short-legged French scent hound with a rough, shaggy coat. It is known for its happy, outgoing, independent, intelligent, and courageous temperament. This breed was developed in the Vendée region of France centuries ago from selective breeding of larger French scent hounds and the Grand Griffon to hunt small game over rough local terrain. The 'Grand' distinguishes it from the smaller Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. Its recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginVendée region, France
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight18–20.5 kilogram
Female weight18–20.5 kilogram
Male height39–46 centimetre
Female height39–46 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen originated in the Vendée region of France. It was developed centuries ago from selective breeding of larger French scent hounds and the Grand Griffon. The breed was created to hunt small game, such as hare and rabbit, over the rough local terrain. The 'Grand' in its name distinguishes it from the smaller Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. Its history is tied to the region's hunting traditions, but specific dates or historical events are not documented in available sources.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
18–20.5 kilogramAdult weight39–46 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesRough, ShaggyCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Happyoutgoingindependentintelligentcourageous
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
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.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Grand Basset 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.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Related comparisons
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Growth chart
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight18–20.5 kilogramAdult female weight18–20.5 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen?
Adult males and females both weigh approximately 18 to 20.5 kg and stand 39 to 46 cm tall at the shoulder. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
What is the temperament of this breed?
The breed is described as happy, outgoing, independent, intelligent, and courageous. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits.
How much exercise does a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen need?
With an energy score of 4 out of 5, this breed has high energy needs and requires regular exercise. It was bred for hunting over rough terrain, so daily physical activity is important.
What are the grooming requirements?
The coat is rough and shaggy, with a grooming score of 3 out of 5, indicating moderate grooming needs. Regular brushing is recommended to maintain coat condition.
Is this breed suitable for apartment living?
With an apartment suitability score of 2 out of 5, this breed is not ideal for apartment living. It does best in a home with access to a yard or open space.
How does the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 3 out of 5, and dog compatibility is also 3 out of 5, indicating moderate compatibility. Individual temperament and socialization play a significant role.
Where does the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen originate from?
The breed originates from the Vendée region of France. It was developed centuries ago from selective breeding of larger French scent hounds and the Grand Griffon for hunting small game.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.