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Griffon Fauve de Bretagne
Hound breed from Brittany, France
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is a medium-sized, rough-coated French scent hound with a harsh, wiry fawn to red coat. It is known for its keen hunting instincts, tenacity in the hunt, and rustic appearance. The breed is described as courageous, independent, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. Its energy level is high (score 4 out of 5), and it is moderately trainable (score 3). Grooming needs are moderate (score 3), and shedding is low (score 2). The breed is moderately suitable for children (score 3) and other dogs (score 3), but less suited to apartment living (score 2). Adult weight is estimated between 18 and 23 kg, height between 48 and 56 cm, and lifespan is estimated at 12 to 14 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Griffon Fauve de Bretagne at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginBrittany, France
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight18–23 kilogram
Female weight18–23 kilogram
Male height48–56 centimetre
Female height48–56 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is an ancient French scenthound originating from the Brittany region of France. Its history dates back to the 13th century, when it was originally used to hunt wolves and wild boar. The breed nearly became extinct after World War II but was revived by dedicated enthusiasts using remaining bloodlines and crosses with other French hounds. The breed's exact recognition status varies by registry, and its working purpose is not specified in available records. The breed is classified in the Hound group and is known for its rustic appearance and keen hunting instincts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
18–23 kilogramAdult weight48–56 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesRough, WiryCoat colorsFawn, RedRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Courageousindependentintelligentenergeticaffectionate
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
Lower shedding tendency
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 Griffon Fauve de Bretagne-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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Growth chart
Griffon Fauve de Bretagne 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 weight18–23 kilogramAdult female weight18–23 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 Griffon Fauve de Bretagne?
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 18 to 23 kg for both males and females. Estimated adult height ranges from 48 to 56 cm for both sexes. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne?
The breed is described as courageous, independent, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. However, individual dogs may vary. They are known for their tenacity in the hunt and keen hunting instincts.
How much exercise does a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne need?
The breed has a high energy level (score 4 out of 5), indicating a need for regular, vigorous exercise. As a scent hound, it likely enjoys activities that engage its nose and hunting instincts.
What are the grooming requirements for a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne?
Grooming needs are moderate (score 3 out of 5). The coat is rough and wiry, and shedding is low (score 2). Regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping may be needed to maintain coat texture.
Is the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne good for apartment living?
The breed has low suitability for apartments (score 2 out of 5). Its high energy and independent nature suggest it is better suited to a home with a yard or access to open spaces.
How does the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne get along with children and other dogs?
The breed has moderate suitability for children (score 3) and other dogs (score 3). Individual temperament varies, so early socialization and supervision are recommended.
Where does the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne originate from?
The breed originates from the Brittany region of France. It is an ancient French scenthound dating back to the 13th century, originally used for hunting wolves and wild boar.
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.