If you are looking for a happy companion for you and your family, the Briquet Griffon Vendeen is the right choice. The breed was developed in France in an attempt to create a smaller version of the Grand Griffon Vendeen, a dog known in the area since the time of the Gauls. Looking into the history of the breed, we can see that it came close to extinction after WWII, like other breeds thought of as being useful on the battle field. It was brought back with the sustained efforts of a judge at a dog show. In Britain, the breed is known as the “happy breed”, due to its outgoing character.
It can grow up to 20-22 inches tall and weigh 48-53 pounds. It has an overall bushy look, as it has a double coat. The outer coat is quite long, coarse and thick. It can come in many colors: orange and white, light brown, fawn, combinations of the above and gray. It may even be tri-colored. The head is short, with heavy hair over the eyebrows. The hair over the muzzle forms a cute mustache. The Briquet Griffon Vendeen has low set years, which are never cropped. Neither is the tail, which is very often used to express joy.
Specialists in dog training consider that the Briquet Griffon Vendeen has a temperament that recommends it for households with more pets, be them other dogs or other types of pets. Although thought of as a great companion for children, a household with older children might be better suited for this dog. Trainers claim that the teaching activity with hunting breeds in general must be done with sustained efforts, as they are independent and single minded, but that, overall, they are devoted, hard-working dogs with excellent hunting instincts.
The Briquet Griffon Vendeen breed is suited for house life as it is playful and joyful, but not high strung. It can adapt to city life, if used to it since its early years. Having a park, a yard or a small forest around your home can make this dog very happy, as it loves to pick up on a trail, even a cold one, and explore. Being left to follow its nose at least once a day would be a real treat. Trainers warn that the breed does not respond to harsh methods of training. They are not recommended as watchdogs and should be fenced in, as they can follow a scent regardless of where it might lead.
Grooming the breed might be difficult but not impossible. The bushy aspect of the dog is natural and dog groomers strongly advise against trimming. Bathing is also recommended only when necessary. If mud or dirt gets caught in the coat, it can simply get brushed off. The grooming needs of the breed are minimal, and there are no special health problems owners should be aware of. The life expectancy of the dog is of 12-14 years.
The Briquet Griffon Vendeen is a naturally happy and loving dog, which, if trained properly, can become the most trustworthy companion.
