Breed History:

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is one of the oldest French scent hounds, with roots tracing back to the 16th century. Developed in the Vendée region of western France, this large and rugged breed descended from the Greffier (King Louis IX's hounds) and the Canis Segusius, a Gallic hunting dog known to the Romans. It shares lineage with other Vendéen breeds but is the largest and earliest of them all.

Historically, the Grand Griffon was bred for hunting large and dangerous game such as wild boar and deer in harsh terrain. Its rough coat, strong frame, and fearless nature made it ideal for tracking and enduring long hunts across dense forests, brambles, and rocky slopes.

Though rarer today, the Grand Griffon Vendéen remains highly respected among traditional French hunters, prized for its endurance and strong voice in the field.

Height: 60-70 cm

Weight: 30-35 kg

Size: Large

Life Expectancy: 10–13 years

Breed Appearance:

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is a tall, lean yet muscular hound with a distinctly rustic look. Its long, coarse, and tousled coat offers protection from rough environments. The breed has a long head, arched eyebrows, pendulous ears, and a distinct beard and mustache that give it a dignified, weathered appearance.

The coat comes in a variety of colors including white with black, orange, grizzle, lemon, or sable patches. The tail is long and saber-shaped, and the gait is powerful and steady, suited to long-distance trailing.

Breed Type – Scent Hound:

This is a classic large game scent hound, bred to work in packs or independently to track and pursue prey over rough ground. Known for its keen nose, persistence, and booming voice, it is both a reliable hunter and a striking presence in the field.

While bred for hard work, the breed can also be affectionate and composed at home when its activity needs are met.

Training:

The Grand Griffon Vendéen is intelligent but strong-willed:

• Responds best to positive, consistent training

• Has a natural hunting instinct—recall requires patience and reinforcement

• Early socialization and obedience are critical

• Prone to distraction by scent trails

• May excel in scent work, mantrailing, or advanced tracking

It needs a confident and active handler with experience or a strong interest in working dogs.

Health & Care:

A hardy breed built for endurance, but potential issues include:

• Hip dysplasia

• Ear infections due to heavy ears and outdoor activity

• Eye problems (rare, but possible)

• Bloat (gastric torsion) in some large-chested individuals

Preventive care includes regular ear checks, joint health support, and a consistent exercise routine.

Living Conditions:

Not a city or apartment dog—this breed thrives in rural environments:

• Needs space to roam and a fenced yard

• Suited for working or hunting households

• Can live with other dogs, especially in pack settings

• Generally gentle with children, though best for older, dog-savvy ones

• Needs close companionship—does not enjoy long isolation

Exercise:

High exercise needs:

• Requires 2+ hours of daily activity

• Enjoys hiking, scent tracking, free running in safe areas

• Mental stimulation is essential—nose games, search-and-find, or tasks

• Without enough engagement, may become restless or vocal

Ideally suited for active owners with land or purpose-driven lifestyles.

Grooming:

Moderate grooming needs:

• Brush 2–3 times per week to remove dirt and prevent matting

• Hand-stripping or trimming a few times yearly keeps the coat in good shape

• Clean ears weekly to prevent infections

• Maintain dental hygiene and nail trimming

The breed sheds moderately and may bring in debris due to its long coat.

Advantages:

• Powerful scent hound with legendary tracking ability

• Rustic, majestic appearance

• Loyal, calm, and even-tempered when exercised

• Can live in harmony with other dogs

• Hardy and low-maintenance in health

• Deep voice and presence make it a strong guardian by nature

Disadvantages:

• High exercise and mental stimulation needs

• Not suitable for urban or apartment living

• Strong prey drive—off-leash freedom is risky without training

• Grooming requires time due to coat and ears

• May be vocal or stubborn if underworked

• Rare outside France—finding a breeder can be difficult