Basset Griffon Vendeen

The earliest Basset Griffon Vendeen or BGV dates back to the sixteenth century when it was bred to hunt hares in the rough and rocky terrain in La Vendée district in the western coast of France. It was only recognised and adopted as a standard breed type in 1898. At that period, it was called Basset Griffon Francais.

However, by 1907, two types of the Basset Griffon Francais were being developed: the Grand and the Petit. Both can be found in the same litter until 1970 when it was outlawed to cross the two sizes. The United Kennel Club recognised the Petit Basset Griffon in 1992, whilst the Grand Basset Griffon in 1996.

Today, there are four ancient Griffon Vendeen breeds: the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, the Grand Griffon Vendeen, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen, and the Briquet Griffon Vendeen.

The BGV’s name comes from French words basset (low to the ground), griffon (wiry coat), and Vendée(n) ( the district where it originated).

The Basset Griffon Vendeen weighs 40–44 pounds and stands 32–43 centimetres at the withers. The BGV is medium in size with short legs and a slightly extended body. This muscular and well-balanced dog exudes the air of nobility enhanced by the way it carries its head. It has a tousled appearance with rough and wiry double coat. The fur on its face resembles a moustache and beard.

According to KC standards, accepted colours include white with combination of lemon, orange, grizzle, sable, and black markings. The dog can be bicolour, tricolour, or have grizzling. Its double coat is moderately long that lays flat to its body, and it has a nice thick and short undercoat.

Since its coat is medium in length, a weekly brush and an occasional bath are all it requires to maintain its look. Look out for its moustache and beard as they tend to get messy when it eats and drinks.

The BGV needs regular ear cleaning to prevent wax build-up and infection. Clipping of nails is usually required once or twice a month to avoid overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. Teeth should be also brushed regularly for oral health.

The Basset Griffon Vendeen, which belongs to the hound group, is active, happy, and vivacious. It is extroverted and alert with a tendency to excessively bark, making it an excellent watchdog. This breed is not a couch potato and is best suited to an active and experienced dog owner. If it lacks the right amount of mental and physical stimulation, the BGV may become bored and destructive.

The BGV is generally good with children. However, since it is an energetic and boisterous dog, it can accidentally knock over small children during interaction. Playtime, thus, must be supervised. With early socialisation, the GBV can get on well with other dogs. However, it does not get along well with small pets as its hunting instinct may cause it to chase or kill.

The Griffon is intelligent, independent, and strong-willed. It can be hard to train as its hunting instincts may get in the way of obedience training. As a typical scent hound, the Griffon breed will quickly chase where scent is involved. It is crucial for a Griffon puppy to be socialised and trained from a young age. It must be taught to recognise your role as an alpha in the ‘pack’ or it will start showing dominance in the household.

Despite all the predisposed temperament of a GBV, always remember that each dog is unique. Many factors can affect the way a dog may turn out. Such factors include its genetics, environment, early training, and socialisation.

• Senior and less active: up to 1,020 calories daily
• Typical adult: up to 1,100 calories daily
• Physically active/working dog: up to 1,300 calories daily

Getting a Basset Griffon Vendeen means you are responsible for its well-being. As a responsible dog owner, costs are inevitable. For starters, a BGV puppy will cost you around £500–£800, more if it comes from a reputable breeder. Pet insurance will also set you back a significant amount with a basic cover of £25 a month. However, if you choose a lifetime policy, prepare to pay over £60 a month. Lifetime cover is more expensive, but may offset considerable costs later from veterinary care for specific treatments.

When it comes to other costs, food is another expense that you should not scrimp on. Food cost to buy the best-quality dog food is around £50–£60 a month. Dog toys, dog supplies, and equipment (such as leads, beds, collars, etc.) may generally cost you around £200.

Veterinary costs such as initial vaccinations, annual boosters, and neutering/spaying will quickly add up to over £1,000 a year. Considering the expenses mentioned above, you may need to spend £80–£130 a month.