Griffon Bleu de Gascogne

Also called Blue Gascony Griffon

An eager, busy hunting dog that can get very worked up once it is on a trail, yet is warm and loving at home.

Size	Medium
Height	48 to 57 cm (19 to 22 in)males 50 to 57 cm, females 48 to 55 cm1 2
Coat	Rough, harsh, shaggy
Origin	France (Gascony, with roots in the Pyrenees region).1 2
Group	Scent hounds and related breeds (FCI group 6)

Recognised breedShort profile

keen nose and a strong voice

lively and alert

affectionate with its people

1 2

Personality what they are like

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.1 2 3

Coat and looks how to spot one

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.1 2

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 tail1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

Daily activity how busy a day looks

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.2 3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The harsh, shaggy coat is naturally weather-resistant; regular brushing keeps it tidy. Check the drop ears and brows after outings in cover.1 2

Company who they like around

Used both singly and in packs, so it is at ease with other dogs, and it bonds closely with its family.3

The story where it all began

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.1 3 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

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

Where the name comes from the story behind it

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

Name ideas for your new friend

BleuGascogneBasqueRustyHarleyPippinTruffleChampFrecklesCocoBiscuitTalon

A day in the life told by a Griffon Bleu de Gascogne

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.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 32, Group 6 Scent hounds, Section 1.2 Medium-sized hounds; current standard dated 29.08.2023.1
UKC: Scenthound Group; recognised 1 January 1991.2
Société Centrale Canine: Recognised in its home country, France.3

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
Splash of water (as needed)

How

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

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

Owner questions the things everyone asks

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.6 Pet 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.1 2 6 Pet 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.6 Pet 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.2 3 Pet 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.6 1 2 Pet 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.3 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.