What makes the Briquet Griffon Vendéen Unique?
Very intelligent with a strong work ethic, the Briquet Griffon Vendeen is a valuable addition to any family or working team of dogs. They are energetic, alert, and attentive and will enjoy a variety of actvities with companion dogs and owners. They are most comfortable with plenty of exercise and will need to be taken out for activities at least once per day.
Breed Groups
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| Size: | Males – 51 to 56 cm (20 to 22 inches) Females – 51 to 56 cm (20 to 22 inches) |
| Weight: | Males – 21 to 24 kg (48 to 53 lb) Females – 21 to 24 kg (48 to 53 lb) |
| Origin: | France |
| Life Span: | 11 – 13 Years |
| Colour: | Solid or mixed colors, fawn, light brown, white and orange, white and gray and even tri-colored |
| Litter Size: | 4 to 6 puppies |
Is the Briquet Griffon Vendéen Right For You?
This dog breed is buoyant, fun-loving and playful, but also a little unruly and extremely independent. The Briquet Griffon Vendeen gets along well with older children, other dogs and non-canine pets, especially those they were raised with. This is a devoted, hard-working and dependable breed.
The dog’s character is well received by many families and children. The dogs are small, vivacious, and hardy. They are very active and alert, and are ready fro new activities with their companions and owners. These dogs do not do well with cats or other household pets that they may see as prey. The do well with friendly strangers, but cannot tolerate being alone for extended periods of time.
In 5 Words
- Passionate
- Dominant
- Independent
- Friendly
- Happy Dog
Characteristics
Learn About the Briquet Griffon Vendéen
Description
The Briquet Griffon Vendeen is a very receptive and sensitive dog. It is stocky but well proportioned with a firm snout and long, dropping ears on the sides of its head. The head is medium-sized and the dog has a medium sized snout. The tail is short and will stick straight out when the dog is alert, anxious, or happy. This dog stands tall and confident, and has medium legs in proportion to its overall height and length. This light dog is often used for hunting small deer and there are two main sizes of the species. A rough coat and compact structure define these hounds, and they have a lively bearing and outlook. They have large, dark, and expressive eyes that show very little white; they also have a naturally friendly and intelligent expression. The ears are supple and narrow, and covered with long hair. The mouth has a scissor bite that is level and consistent.
Short History of the Briquet Vendeen Griffon
Briquet Vendeen Griffons are one of the four rough-coated breeds from the west cost of France in the La Vendee region. These four include the Briquet, Grand Griffon Vendeen, Basset Griffon Vendeen, and the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen (also known as a “PeeBeeGeeVee”, or PBGV). Believed to have descended from the Vendéen hounds of the Gris de St. Louis, the Briquets are thought to be bred from the white Southern Hound and other Italian coarse-haired dogs. One of the first breeders being the king’s clerk, or greffier, the hound probably got the “griffon” part of its name from this. Several of these dogs were given to King Louis XII, eventually developing the name Chiens Blancs du Rui, or the King’s White Hounds. During the French Revolution the dogs were almost gone, but around the 20th century in 1907, a club formed and began bringing back the dogs. The Briquets were used for hunting hare and other small game, but due to less and less hunting the breed has lost its need. This breed was severely reduced during World War II and is still relatively unknown even in France. These days it is known as a pet and companion dog, occasionally out on the hunt with its owner, or by itself!
Temperament
Briquet Griffon Vendeens are alert, active, decisive, intense and enthusiastic. Sure to warm any heart, this breed is courageous and good natured, though a few have been known to be a little snappy. Briquets are difficult to handle with training, though, as they are instinctively independent and single minded. They make reasonably good watchdogs, and are generally good with children. Briquets tend to dig.
Caring for Your Briquet Griffon Vendéen
Grooming & Bathing
The tousled appearance of the Griffon comes naturally, and any trimming is highly discouraged. Its double coat must be brushed and combed. The burrs and mud it picks up in its travels need to be brushed off its legs and belly. Its long ears can harbor infection and should be cleaned regularly.
Exercise & Training
All the Griffons are keen hunters with strong instincts. They thrive on being able to follow their noses at least once a day. Provided with a large, safe area in which to sniff and explore to its heart’s content, a Briquette will be a very happy dog- even if it is just once a week. Short of hunting opportunities, Griffons must have time outdoors. Long walks are most appreciated- bred as hunting dogs, they do not tire easily.
Briquet Griffon Vendéen Picture Gallery
