Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
FCI 33
42 cmAdult male
at the withers
at the withers
- Mass
- 18–20.5 kgSamce
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen — size comparison
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a low, long hound with a harsh coat, large ears and a pronounced beard. Bushy eyebrows give it a cheerful, somewhat tousled
Silhouette comparison
Height
Ground withersReference values · details in the profiles
HeightScale in cm
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42 cm
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Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen — size comparison — facts and sources
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a low, long hound with a harsh coat, large ears and a pronounced beard. Bushy eyebrows give it a cheerful, somewhat tousled appearance. It is larger and more elongated than the Petit Basset of the same family. Strong legs and a free stride allow efficient movement despite its relatively modest height.
It descends from larger hounds of France's Vendée region. Breeders, including Paul Dezamy, established a lower type useful for hare hunting that could be followed on foot. Breeding of the Grand Basset and smaller Petit Basset was eventually separated. A harsh coat and resilient build suited work in thickets and dense undergrowth characteristic of local hunting grounds.
It is courageous, sociable and very persistent. It readily sets out on independent searches, and a scent can absorb it for a long time. Within the family it can be affectionate and cheerful but may be stubborn about its own goal. It often expresses emotion and excitement vocally. Its interest in the surroundings means it continually finds new places worth investigating thoroughly on outings.