Grand Griffon Vendeen Dog Breed

The Grand Griffon Vendeen is a scent hound, and is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in its Large Hounds group. For centuries, dogs of this breed have been utilized primarily as working animals; they're not very social, so they're best suited as true hunting dogs rather than family pets.

Some breed facts: Grand Griffons are large-sized (weight averages 70 pounds, and height at the shoulders is around 25 inches), with medium- to long-haired, wiry coats in a variety of solid and multi-colored patterns. Here are some advantages and drawbacks to owning this hunting breed:

PROS:

• Fantastic hunting skills
• Fairly friendly and outgoing
• Excellent work ethic
• Socializes well with other dogs
• Intelligent
• Adapts well to outdoor living
• Good overall health

CONS:

• Independent and strong-willed
• High exercise requirements
• Difficult to train
• Extremely high prey drive; will chase and possibly injure smaller pets
• Not good for first-time owners
• Can turn destructive if bored or left alone
• Frequent grooming needed

Grand Griffons are well proportioned, large dogs. They can weigh from 66-77 pounds and stand 23.5-25.5 inches (females) or 25.5-27.5 inches (males).

These dogs are an acceptable choice for families with children, although small children should be taught how to properly handle a pet since this breed has a low tolerance for rough handling. This breed is generally friendly toward strangers and affectionate in general although they are said to be somewhat mouthy. The Grand Griffon Vendeen can be obedient, but is also strong willed so the owner will need to establish a strong leader stance when training this breed. Other dogs are great companions to have around them, but as with any hunting breed prey drive may be too high to ensure the safety of other small pets.

This breed should have a large yard. Due to its origin as a large game hunting breed they do fine as an outdoor dog and should have moderate outdoor exercise, if not they may become whiny and destructive. A strong trainer is needed, as these pets are strong willed and determined and training them will not be easy. The coat of this breed is long, dense and wiry so brushing several times per week to keep out tangles and mats is recommended. Bathing does not need to be done frequently, however the eats should be cleaned regularly.

This breed is prone to a few minor health issues such as hypothyroidism and hip dysplasia. More complicated issues might include epilepsy and deafness, however, the most common issue for the Grand Griffon Vendeen is allergies. They may be allergic to food, cleaning products, and fleas/mites. Life expectancy for this breed is 10-12 years.