what they are likeGriffon Bleu de Gascogne temperament
An eager, busy hunting dog that can get very worked up once it is on a trail, yet is warm and loving at home. It is bold and enterprising and likes to be doing something.123
how to spot oneGriffon Bleu de Gascogne coat and colours
rough, harsh, shaggy
A sturdy, rustic hound built somewhere between its two parent types. The coat is hard and tousled, a little shorter on the head and ears, with bushy brows that should still leave the eyes visible.12
Coloursblack and white mottled giving a slate-blue lookblack patches, often on the headtan markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, legs and under the tail12
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne. 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 Griffon Bleu de Gascogne legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne 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 looksGriffon Bleu de Gascogne exercise needs
A working scent hound bred to follow hare and boar across rough ground, alone or in a pack, so it needs plenty of daily exercise and chances to use its nose.23
the hands-on bitsGriffon Bleu de Gascogne grooming and care
The harsh, shaggy coat is naturally weather-resistant; regular brushing keeps it tidy. Check the drop ears and brows after outings in cover.12
who they like aroundGriffon Bleu de Gascogne with people and other pets
Used both singly and in packs, so it is at ease with other dogs, and it bonds closely with its family.3
where it all beganGriffon Bleu de Gascogne history
The breed came from crossing the medium-sized blue Gascon hound with rough-coated griffons, possibly including the Griffon Nivernais and Grand Griffon Vendéen. Numbers fell so low that it came close to disappearing, but French hunters have since brought it back.132
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Its black-and-white ticking blends so finely that the coat reads as slate blue from a distance.1
2
Tan spots above the eyes give it the classic 'four-eyed' look shared by the Gascon blue hounds.3
3
It was close to extinction before a dedicated revival, and it is now exported abroad as a rare breed.3
4
It works on both small and large game, from hare to wild boar.2
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The name 'Griffon Bleu de Gascogne' translates to 'Blue Gascony Griffon' in English. 'Bleu' refers to the breed's distinctive slate-blue mottled coat, 'Gascogne' indicates its origin in the Gascony region of France, and 'Griffon' describes its rough, wire-haired coat type.3
told by a Griffon Bleu de GascogneA day in the life
I wake up with a big stretch and a sniff of the morning air. My human laughs as I prance to the door, today we're going to the woods. I love the woods! I put my nose to the ground and follow a scent trail, my tail wagging like crazy. I find a rabbit trail and give a happy bark, but my human calls me back. I bound over, ready for more. We walk for hours, and I explore every bush and stone. At home, I flop on the couch, my ears flopping too. My human scratches my head, and I give a contented sigh. It's a good life.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 32, Group 6 Scent hounds, Section 1.2 Medium-sized hounds; current standard dated 29.08.2023.1
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 Griffon Bleu de Gascogne, and at what times?
Feed your adult Griffon Bleu de Gascogne at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent meal times help their digestion, but the exact times can fit your routine. For amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4
What should a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a balanced, high-quality dog food suited to its active lifestyle. Avoid dangerous foods such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as these are especially harmful to dogs. For portion sizes, follow the food label and your vet's advice.5
How often should I bathe a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. The harsh, shaggy coat is naturally weather-resistant, so you can bathe less often if needed. Always use a dog-safe shampoo.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne need brushing?
Pet Wiki's starting plan is to brush your Griffon Bleu de Gascogne once a week. Regular brushing keeps the harsh, shaggy coat tidy and removes loose hair. More frequent brushing may be needed during shedding seasons.126Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping 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 Griffon Bleu de Gascogne need?
This energetic scent hound needs plenty of daily exercise, including long walks and opportunities to use its nose. Pet Wiki's plan recommends daily walks and play. Without enough activity, it may become restless.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth ideally daily, or at least 2-3 times a week, using dog-safe toothpaste. Check the floppy ears weekly for moisture or debris, and dry them gently. Never insert anything into the ear canal. After outdoor adventures, also check the brows and ears for plant material.612Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne live?
Lifespan varies for this breed; there is no specific information provided. For an accurate estimate, consult your vet or a reputable breeder.
Is a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne good with children and other pets?
This breed bonds closely with its family and is generally at ease with other dogs, making it a loving companion. Its suitability with children depends on individual temperament and early socialization. Always supervise interactions and introduce gradually.3
Can a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne be left alone?
This breed is very people-oriented and bonds closely with its family, so it may struggle with long periods alone. It is an active, busy dog that prefers company. If left alone for extended times, provide plenty of enrichment and consider a dog walker.32
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 Bleu de Gascogne
Petit Bleu de Gascogne
Basset Bleu de Gascogne
Griffon Nivernais