what they are likeBriquet Griffon Vendéen temperament
Lively, keen and full of stamina, with a strong mind of its own. It works happily in a pack, gets on well with other dogs and responds much better to encouragement and play than to strict orders.123
how to spot oneBriquet Griffon Vendéen coat and colours
rough, double
A harsh, slightly shaggy outer coat over a thick undercoat, with bushy eyebrows and a moustache that give it a friendly scruffy face.13
Coloursblack and whitewhite and orangeblack and tantricolourfawn with black overlayfawn and white13
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Briquet Griffon Vendéen. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
by countryIs the Briquet Griffon Vendéen legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Briquet Griffon Vendéen in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksBriquet Griffon Vendéen exercise needs
Bred to follow scent for long days in small packs, so it needs generous daily exercise and enjoys tracking games.13
the hands-on bitsBriquet Griffon Vendéen grooming and care
The rough coat benefits from a regular brush to keep the undercoat tidy and the beard clean.3
who they like aroundBriquet Griffon Vendéen with people and other pets
A pack hound at heart that likes canine company and a busy household.2
where it all beganBriquet Griffon Vendéen history
Before the First World War the Comte d'Elva bred the Grand Griffon Vendéen down into a handier, medium-sized hound. The wars nearly wiped it out, and good examples were found again in the Vendée in 1946, with judge Hubert Dezamy helping to restore it.123
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
'Briquet' is an old French word for a medium-sized hound, and this is the only breed that still carries it in that sense.3
2
It can follow both old, cold trails and fresh ones.1
3
Packs were traditionally used on roe deer and wild boar as well as fox and hare.3
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The name 'Briquet' means 'medium-sized dog' in French, and this is the only breed to retain that name. The breed originates from the Vendée region of France.2
told by a Briquet Griffon VendéenA day in the life
I wake to the smell of the forest through the open window. My human laughs as I bounce around the kitchen, my beard dripping from my water bowl. We head out to the woods where I lead the way, nose to the ground, tail wagging. I find a stick and drop it at my human's feet, then race off again. Later, we meet my dog friends for a game of chase. At home, I curl up on the rug, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 19, Group 6 (Scenthounds and related breeds), Section 1.2 Medium-sized Hounds; standard dated 09.01.1999. Wikipedia gives 1954 for FCI recognition.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Briquet Griffon Vendéen, and at what times?
Feed your Briquet Griffon Vendéen at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four for puppies. Consistent meal times help their digestion, but exact times are up to you. Always follow the food label and your vet's advice for amounts.4
What should a Briquet Griffon Vendéen eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always check with your vet for a complete list.5
How often should I bathe a Briquet Griffon Vendéen?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to protect the coat.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Briquet Griffon Vendéen need brushing?
Brush your Briquet Griffon Vendéen weekly to keep the undercoat tidy and the beard clean. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every 7 days, which suits this rough double coat.36Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Briquet Griffon Vendéen's nails, and how often?
Trim nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 4 weeks. Cut a little at a time and stop before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Briquet Griffon Vendéen need?
This breed needs generous daily exercise, including long walks and tracking games. Pet Wiki's plan recommends daily walks and play to match their stamina and scenting instincts.13Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Briquet Griffon Vendéen's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Pet Wiki suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks. Never push anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Briquet Griffon Vendéen live?
Lifespan varies for each dog; ask your vet or a good breeder for an estimate based on the individual's health and lineage.
Is a Briquet Griffon Vendéen good with children and other pets?
This breed is generally good with other dogs and enjoys a busy household. With proper socialisation, they can be good with children, but always supervise interactions.123
Can a Briquet Griffon Vendéen be left alone?
This pack hound prefers company and may struggle with long periods alone. They do best in a busy household or with canine companionship. If left alone, provide plenty of enrichment.2
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Grand Griffon Vendéen
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen