Breed History:

It originally descended from the now-extinct Grand Fauve de Bretagne, a large and fierce hunting hound used for wolf and wild boar hunting. When wolves were eradicated in France and large-game hunting declined, the breed nearly disappeared.

In the mid-20th century, breed enthusiasts, especially Marquis de Falandre, helped revive and preserve the Griffon Fauve by breeding smaller, more manageable dogs from the remaining stock. The focus shifted to a versatile, medium-sized scent hound, capable of hunting wild boar, deer, and fox. Today, it remains relatively rare outside of France but is well-regarded for its keen nose, stamina, and rustic charm.

Height: 48-56 cm

Weight: 18-22 kg

Size: Medium

Life Expectancy: 11–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is a solid, muscular hound with a shaggy, weather-resistant coat. Its head is noble and elongated, with bushy eyebrows, a pronounced beard, and dropped ears covered in rough hair.

The coat is short to medium in length, harsh, dense, and tousled, designed to protect it in thick underbrush. The color is always a fawn or wheaten tone, ranging from golden to reddish, often with slight black shading on the ears or muzzle.

Breed Type – Scent Hound:

A true scent hound, the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is prized for its persistence, voice, and ability to work in difficult terrain. Bred to trail large and small game alike, it is used both in individual hunts and packs. The breed is known for its courage, independence, and sharp nose.

Though tenacious in the field, it is typically calm, devoted, and friendly at home—making it a versatile hunting and companion dog.

Training:

This breed is intelligent but independent:

• Benefits from early obedience and socialization

• Has a strong prey drive—recall must be consistently trained

• Responds best to positive reinforcement, especially with food

• Can be stubborn or distracted by scents

• Enjoys activities like tracking, mantrailing, or scent games

Best for handlers who enjoy working with scent-driven dogs and understand their instincts.

Health & Care:

The Griffon Fauve is generally a robust and healthy breed, though owners should monitor for:

• Ear infections (due to pendulous ears)

• Hip dysplasia (moderate risk)

• Obesity, if under-exercised

• Eye issues (rare)

Routine vet visits, joint care, and ear cleaning are recommended for lifelong health.

Living Conditions:

Adaptable but thrives in rural or active environments:

• Best with a fenced yard and space to roam

• Not ideal for apartments or inactive homes

• Good with children and other dogs if socialized early

• May chase smaller animals without proper training

• Forms strong bonds with family but may be aloof with strangers

Requires companionship and purpose to stay mentally balanced.

Exercise:

This breed has high endurance and energy:

• Needs 1.5–2 hours of daily exercise

• Loves long walks, hikes, and tracking games

• Enjoys working outdoors and exploring

• Mental enrichment like scent puzzles or agility keeps it stimulated

• May become bored or vocal if under-exercised

Perfect for owners who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Grooming:

Low to moderate grooming needs:

• Brush 1–2 times a week to remove dirt and prevent tangles

• Occasional hand-stripping can maintain coat texture (optional for pet homes)

• Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are essential

• Bathing only as needed—coat repels dirt well

Sheds moderately, especially during seasonal changes.

Advantages:

• Hardy and adaptable hunting dog

• Strong scenting and tracking skills

• Loyal, affectionate, and good-natured

• Rustic look with low grooming needs

• Versatile—suitable for hunting or companionship

• Generally healthy and long-lived

Disadvantages:

• Needs significant daily exercise and engagement

• Strong prey drive—recall training is crucial

• Can be independent and stubborn

• Not suited to sedentary or indoor-only living

• May bark or roam if under-stimulated

• Rare outside France—can be difficult to find