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Grand Griffon Vendéen
Hound breed from Vendée region, France
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Grand Griffon Vendéen
The Grand Griffon VendĂ©en is a large French scent hound, standing 62â68 cm and weighing 30â35 kg (estimated). It has a rough double coat, often with a beard and mustache, and a noble appearance. The breed is known for its independent, courageous, intelligent, energetic, and alert temperament. Energy level is high (5/5), trainability is moderate (3/5), and grooming needs are moderate (3/5). Shedding is moderate (3/5). Suitability with children and other dogs is moderate (3/5 each), and apartment living is less suitable (2/5). Lifespan is estimated at 10â13 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Grand Griffon Vendéen at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHound
OriginVendée region, France
Lifespan10â13 years
Male weight30â35 kilogram
Female weight30â35 kilogram
Male height62â68 centimetre
Female height62â68 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Grand Griffon Vendéen is one of the oldest French scent hounds, with origins in the Vendée region of France. According to available sources, it is descended from ancient Celtic hounds and royal white hounds of France. The breed was developed during the Middle Ages for hunting large game such as wild boar, deer, and wolves, valued for its exceptional courage and stamina. The exact timeline and specific historical events are not detailed in the supplied facts, so the breed's early development is understood in general terms rather than precise dates. As a hound bred for rough terrain, the Grand Griffon Vendéen was shaped by the need to track and hold large game independently. Its rough double coat and sturdy build reflect its working environment. The breed's history is tied to the Vendée region, but the specific roles of individual breeders or kennels are not provided. The breed's recognition status varies by registry, meaning not all kennel clubs may acknowledge it uniformly. No claims about modern working purpose or official recognition dates can be made from the given information.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
30â35 kilogramAdult weight62â68 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesRough double coatCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Independentcourageousintelligentenergeticalert
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1â5 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 dogâchild interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium 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 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: 5
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Growth chart
Grand 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 weight30â35 kilogramAdult female weight30â35 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 Griffon Vendéen?
Estimated adult height is 62â68 cm, weight is 30â35 kg for both sexes. Estimated lifespan is 10â13 years. These are modelled estimates, not exact measurements.
What is the temperament of this breed?
The breed is described as independent, courageous, intelligent, energetic, and alert. Individual dogs may vary; not every dog will display all traits equally.
How much exercise does a Grand Griffon Vendéen need?
Energy level is rated 5 out of 5, indicating high exercise needs. They were bred for hunting large game in rough terrain, so regular vigorous activity is important.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming score is 3 out of 5 (moderate). The rough double coat likely requires regular brushing, but specific grooming routines are not detailed in the facts.
Is this breed suitable for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, suggesting it is less ideal for small spaces due to size and energy level. A home with a yard may be more appropriate.
How does the Grand Griffon Vendéen get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both rated 3 out of 5 (moderate). Individual temperament and socialization play a large role.
Where does the Grand Griffon Vendéen originate from?
The breed originates from the Vendée region of France. It is one of the oldest French scent hounds, descended from ancient Celtic hounds and royal white hounds of France.
Data transparency
â Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API âThe Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit âCopyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.