Griffon Bleu de Gascogne
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is a French scent hound originating from the southwest region. The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne comes from France. Individual Griffon Bleu de Gascognes vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- France
About the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is a French scent hound originating from the southwest region. It is known for its distinctive blue-gray coat and exceptional tracking abilities.
Overview
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is a breed of dog of the scenthound type , originating in France , and is a versatile hunting dog, used on small and large game, in packs or individually. The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne has a speckled, rough coat.
History
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is descended from crosses between the Bleu de Gascogne and the Griffon Nivernais , and possibly the Grand Griffon Vendéen as well. The breed declined for many years, but is now experiencing a revival. The breed has a good nose and a good voice. It is a good and very alert hunting dog for various kinds of hunting, not just as a pack hound for large game. Examples of the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne have been exported to other countries, where they are promoted as a rare breed for those seeking a unique pet.
Appearance
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is a medium-large dog, 48 to 57 cm (18.9-22.4 ins) at the withers , with a distinctive rough (shaggy) blue speckled coat, drop ears that are not as long as those on other hounds, and a tail carried up and in a slight curve. The colour of the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne''s coat is the same as the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, white mottled with black, giving a slate blue overall appearance. There are black patches on either side of the head, with a white area on top of the head which has in it a small black oval. Tan "eyebrow" marks are over each eye give a ''quatreoeuillé'' (four-eyed) effect, and tan is found on the cheeks, inside the ears, on the legs, and under the tail. Texture of the coat should be hard and rough, a little shorter on the head than on the body. Faults are deviations in appearance or temperament that have an effect on the health and working ability of the dog, as well as an absence of expected features of colour, structure, and size, indicating that a dog with such faults should not be bred. Faults include timidity, soft topline, snipey muzzle, cowhocked, splayed feet, and a wooly coat.
Health and temperament
No unusual health problems or claims of extraordinary health have been documented for this breed. The breed''s temperament is described in the breed standard as being highly excitable, but affectionate. Temperament of individual dogs may vary.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne?
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is a scenthound with a speckled, rough coat. They are medium-sized dogs, with males weighing 24-30 kg and females weighing 20-25 kg. They have a muscular build and a distinctive beard and mustache. Their ears are long and hanging, and their tail is long and carried low.
Is the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne a good family dog?
As a hunting breed, Griffon Bleu de Gascognes require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They can be suitable for families with older children who can provide the necessary exercise and attention. However, they may not be the best fit for very young children due to their energetic nature and strong prey drive.
What health problems do Griffon Bleu de Gascognes have?
Griffon Bleu de Gascognes are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. They may also be susceptible to certain cancers, such as osteosarcoma and lymphoma. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify these issues early on.
How much does a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne puppy cost?
The cost of a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a puppy from a reputable breeder can cost between €1,500 to €3,000 (approximately £1,300 to £2,600). However, prices may be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances.
Where do Griffon Bleu de Gascognes come from?
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne comes from France. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.