They are extremely rare and are the least well known breed in the United States. They are rare in not only the United States but also their home of France. After World War II, they were almost extinct. They are bred for the hunt and are probably best in that environment. However, if you are a family in a rural or small community, then they could be great companions for you. Their most distinctive and unique feature is their coat, which is usually a shaggy white coat.
History and Health :
- History :
These dogs are a direct descendent of the Grand Griffon Vendeen. The latter dogs were large and used to hunt wolves and boars. However, some hunters wanted dogs to hunt smaller animals such as rabbits. Starting in the 1600s, breeders bred the smallest of the Grand Griffon Vendeens, and possibly used smaller breeds as well. This eventually led to the smaller and distinctly different breed called the Briquet Griffon Vendeen. However, after World War II, they were close to extinction but were saved from this by French dog fancier Hugh Dezamy. Nevertheless they are still extremely rare except, perhaps, in their native home of France.
- Health :
Perhaps due to their rarity, or due to the success of their breeding, there are almost no medical issues. They only rarely exhibit the common luxating patella, and have equally low incidences of distichiasis. It is possible that they can also suffer from Collie eye anomaly (which can cause blindness); deafness (as congenital deafness runs in this breed); hypothyroidism (common to very many breeds); epilepsy; and various allergies.
Temperament & Personality :
- Personality :
They have frequently been called independent, dominant, hard-working, devoted, dependable and passionate.
- Activity Requirements :
They are extremely active; in fact, they are one of the most active breeds around. As such, city or apartment living is not suited to them. They need to be in a rural community with a great deal of space to roam and hunt. They do not tire easily.
- Trainability :
Because of their independence and stubbornness, it is very difficult to train them. However, they do respond well to being praised, cajoled, given treats or played with.
- Behavioral Traits :
They can be playful, fun-loving and jovial, but they can also be unruly and independent. They can do well with other pets, provided that they have been raised together. They are generally not good around young children (those below the age of eight) but are good with older children as they tend to be more considerate and understanding of dogs.
Appearance & Grooming :
- Appearance :
The Briquet Griffon Vendeen has low-set ears, heavy hair around the eyebrows, longer hair around the muzzle which appears to make it have a mustache, a bushy double coat and a short head.
- Size and Weight :
They usually are 19-24 inches (48.26-61 cm) in height, although females may be in the lower range and they usually are 35-55 lbs (15.88-24.95 kg) in weight, for both males and females.
- Coat & Color :
They have an outer coat which is long, wiry and dense and an inner coat which is soft and thick. Common colors for these dogs are light brown, fawn, white & gray, white & orange, and tri-color.
- Grooming :
Because of their somewhat long coat, matting can easily occur. To prevent this, you need to comb them regularly. In addition, if they do take long walks or runs in the woods then the burrs and mud that it picks up should be removed from their legs and belly. However, bathing should be done only when it is necessary. The long ears can be a breeding ground for infections and should be cleaned on a regular basis.
- Body Type :
They are a sturdy and well-proportioned breed of dog.
Characteristics :
- One source states that they are one of the best dogs to have around children, but another source differentiates them and says that they deal well with older children, not with younger children.
- It is unlikely that they are good with cats as they may view them as being game.
- They are usually friendly with other dogs, especially if raised alongside each other.
- It is extremely difficult to train them.
- They are average in terms of shedding.
- They do make for very good watchdogs.
- They are average in intelligence.
- It is relatively easy to groom them.
- They are extremely rare, and are virtually unknown.
- They do not seem to be very adaptable, and are probably more stubborn than adaptable.
- They are not hypoallergenic.
Tasty Tidbits :
- When they have puppies, there are four to six puppies in the litter.
- They have an above-average sense of smell, and will often go to wherever a scent takes them.
- In the United Kingdom, the Briquet Griffon Vendeen is referred to as “The Happy Breed”.
- It cannot be emphasized enough that they are a rare breed, but there is anecdotal evidence that they are growing in popularity in Europe.
Care :
They need not only frequent and intensive physical exercise but also mental stimulation to prevent them from becoming bored. Without mental stimulation, they can get snappy or testy.
Feeding :
Specific dietary recommendations are unavailable. However, as they may be allergic to some foods, it is best to take your puppy/dog to your vet to find out what, if anything, it is allergic to and then avoid that as much as possible.
Images, Pics, Photos and Pictures of Briquet Griffon Vendeen :
Information and Facts of Briquet Griffon Vendeen :
- The name for this dog is Briquet Griffon Vendeen
- Another name is Medium Vendeen Griffon
- These dogs originated in France
- They belong to the Medium-sized Dogs breeds
- The few kennel clubs that recognize them call them either a Hound or a Hunting Dog
- Their lifespan is expected to be 10-12 years
- They usually are 19-24 inches (48.26-61 cm) in height, although females may be in the lower range
- They usually are 35-55 lbs (15.88-24.95 kg) in weight, for both males and females
- Common colors are orange & white, fawn, light brown, black & tan, gray & white; and tri-color
- They are extremely rare, and there have been no reports of prices for these puppies
- They are active dogs and sleep for an average amount of time
- They are descended from the Grand Griffon Vendeen.
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