Let's talk Griffon Bleu de Gascogne dogs
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is one of France’s premiere hunting breeds, a scent hound hailing from the southwest of the country, enrobed in a charming speckled and spotted scruffy coat finished off with a beard. The breed lands squarely in the middle in both size and temperament. Cherished in their home country but little-known outside, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is a breed worth getting to know, with a pack mentality from way back that makes them a super addition to any household.Official name: Griffon Bleu de Gascogne
Other names: None
Origins: France
| Drooling tendencies |
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Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level | 
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Suited to apartment living? |
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| Physical activity needs (high, low, medium): | Moderate | Kid-friendly? |
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| Compatibility with other pets | |
Can stay alone? |
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We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches.
Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour.
Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Male
51 - 56 cm
Height
15 - 27 kg
Weight
Female
48 - 55 cm
Height
15 - 27 kg
Weight
| Baby age | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age | 2 to 12 months |
| Adult age | 1 to 7 years |
| Mature age | 7 to 10 years |
| Senior age | 10 years onwards |
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Get to know the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne
All you need to know about the breed
It may be their hallmark spotted coat that draws you in but it’s the lively character of the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne that makes you stay. The epitome of a faithful companion, the breed is known as a keen scent hound, used as such for centuries throughout France. Although not terribly well-known in other countries, this cooperative and steadfast dog gets their due on home terrain.
A true pack animal known for their affable demeanour and booming voice (when there’s an issue afoot), the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is also as robust as they come. Given their breeding, this is a dog with a fairly high prey drive so will need to be supervised around smaller pets. They are excellent with children, once trained.
Although originally bred as a hunting dog, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne makes a true companion pet today. Make no mistake, this is a breed that instinctively needs to get outside a few hours each day. A rural environment is truly best for Griffon Bleu de Gascogne dogs.
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2 facts about Griffon Bleu de Gascogne dogs
1. Just so nice
Some dogs, like the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne will never be watchdog material, because they are just too amiable. People, other dogs - it doesn’t much matter to the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne when they can all be pals.
2. Can’t stop, won’t stop
As a dog bred for field sport, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is used to long outings and running for miles on end, usually in the company of other Griffon Bleu de Gascogne dogs. It’s hard to believe they could do the same thing all over again the next day, but they are always willing.
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History of the breed
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne hails from the Pyrénées Mountains in southwest France. They are often referred to as one of the hounds of the Midi region (“du Midi”, and there are others!) and is said to have been bred from the Griffon Nivernais and Bleu de Gascogne breeds over centuries, with a smattering of the Grand Griffon Vendéen possibly added in along the way.
The rugged breed has an incredible sense of smell, their primary aid in the hunting for which they were so prized by both royalty and commoners alike. Whether in packs or singularly, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne breed is most content when doing what they do best, even if just tracking down the way back home.
The breed was officially recognised by England’s United Kennel Club in 1991 and by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1996.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Griffon Bleu de Gascogne dogs
1. Ears
Long, drooping ears with rounded ends, set low.
2. Body
Rugged body, firm, straight back, sturdy and strong legs.
3. Coat
Hallmark black-and-white-coloured coat with tan markings, rough and shaggy, bushy eyebrows.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Griffon Bleu de Gascogne
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Caring for your Griffon Bleu de Gascogne
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Easygoing and rugged, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne requires low but regular maintenance. Their signature black-and-white speckled coat has a rough, wiry texture, so brush it weekly to dispel dirt, bathing only as needed. This is a dog that will spend lots of time outdoors so check their paw pads for any twig or grass seed after walks. Clean ears and trim nails routinely and brush their teeth often for optimal health. The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne breed will require a good amount of exercise with their energetic nature. At least two hours a day will keep them in top form. Their purebred trait to be on the move means the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is not terribly suitable for apartment living, unless taken to large spaces to run each day. Docile, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is still an independent thinker so training them should not be difficult but must be consistent and, as with many breeds, the earlier, the better. The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne listens to commands easily due to their mild-mannered temperament.7/7
All about Griffon Bleu de Gascogne dogs
Revered for their loyalty and devotion, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne has family top of mind. They are pack dogs so thrive on being part of a group and bond well with children, once trained around them. This active breed is best for broods with slightly older children though, a good precaution to keep little ones safe who may take a tumble due to the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne dog’s energetic nature.
The affectionate Griffon Bleu de Gascogne has been relied on for centuries as the trusty sidekick of hunters, able to run for miles in most any conditions so one would correctly think the breed an overactive one. After the day is done however, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is still content to be by the side of their owner, and will quickly settle into a post-field posture.
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Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/