Grand basset griffon vendéen
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a medium-sized scenthound breed originally from France.
You can read the official breed description in the standard but below, I’ll tell you about the breed in my own words.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen – a big heart with just the right amount of crazyness
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They’ll put a smile on your face, but also give you a few grey hairs.
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They’ll make you work, but it’s all worth it.
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They give love – when they feel like it.
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They’re smart – but only do what they want.
The grand basset is a breed that stays in your mind and catches attention, both for its looks and for its personality. Grands are happy, delightful clowns, and I am head over heels in love with this breed.
What I find most charming in grands is their authenticity and honesty. They don’t try to please anyone, they are exactly who they are. For the owner, this means creativity and patience, as you search for a common language and the right motivation. But once you find it, the feeling is truly special.
Training a grand is not the easiest path, but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding. They are clever, no doubt, but they only do what feels right to them and they’ll quickly get frustrated if you don’t understand their logic. A grand will obey, if it wants to.
At home, grands know how to relax. They don’t go in for pointless fuss. They’re masters of couch lounging, but if the doorbell rings or someone dares approach their yard, the watchdog bark volume goes through the roof. They don’t constantly seek physical affection, but when they choose to come close, it always feels meaningful. Their need for personal space also shows in daily life, a grand doesn’t necessarily enjoy grooming moments. That’s why coat care, nail trimming and other handling should be practiced calmly and positively, at the dog’s pace.
Opportunity makes the thief. A tissue left on the table, a hair tie, an open washing machine door, you can be sure your grand will soon have a personal treasure to proudly show off. That’s why I believe teaching a good “trade” cue is essential when living with this breed.
Grands have a pinch of craziness and a ton of personality. They absolutely have a sense of humor, maybe not a good one… but luckily, neither do I. They bring joy to life, daily laughter, and occasionally a few grey hairs but I couldn’t imagine living without a grand. They’ve taught me to look at life more lightly because life just isn’t meant to be taken too seriously.