Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

Genetic Predispositions and Health

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a generally healthy breed, but may suffer from allergies, epilepsy, glaucoma, BGV pain syndrome, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism. Genetic testing is recommended, including for the following additional conditions: hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration.

Personality and Behavior

GBGVs are known for their friendly and laid-back nature. They are sociable dogs that generally get along well with people and other animals. Despite their typically calm demeanor, they have a strong instinct to track scents, which can sometimes make them stubborn and independent. They are intelligent dogs, but their independent nature can sometimes make them challenging to train. They require patient, consistent training methods and plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

Scent Hound Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

Scent Hounds were historically used as hunting dogs. They were bred for their exceptional sense of smell, which is also a defining factor of this lineage of dogs. Scent hounds also have a distinctive bark which sounds more like a howl, this was developed to communicate with their hunters. Many breeds within this lineage were bred to work in groups, and have a strong pack mentality. Scent Hounds tend to have a stronger drive to follow their nose instinctually than their human counterpart. Scent hounds are also known for their endurance and stamina, these traits allow them to follow scents over long distances and for long periods of time.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Basset Hound, English Foxhound, and Dachshund.

Fun Facts

The breed's name is pronounced 'Grand-Bah-SAY Gree-FOHN VON-day-uhn.'

The GBGV's coat is rough and long, giving them a distinctive, shaggy appearance. Their bushy eyebrows, beard, and mustache contribute to their unique and endearing look.

Despite their size, GBGVs are surprisingly agile and quick. They have a distinctive, fast-paced trot when they're on the scent trail.

The GBGV's keen nose is thought to be second only to the Bloodhound's in terms of scenting ability

References

https://petkeen.com/grand-basset-griffon-vendeen/ https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_grand-basset-griffon-vendeen
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/grand-basset-griffon-vendeen/ https://www.ukcdogs.com/grand-basset-griffon-vendeen https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/GRAND-BASSET-GRIFFON-VENDEEN-33.html