Pet Wiki

Griffon Fauve de Bretagne

Also called Fawn Brittany Griffon

Crafty and persistent in the field, but easy-going, even-tempered and loving with people.

SizeMedium
Height48 to 56 cm (19 to 22 in)12
CoatVery rough, harsh, fairly short
OriginFrance (Brittany).13
GroupScent hounds and related breeds (FCI group 6)
Recognised breedShort profile
tireless and weatherproof
clever, determined hunter
sociable and affectionate with people
123

Personality what they are like

Crafty and persistent in the field, but easy-going, even-tempered and loving with people. It responds well to training that is patient and consistent.123

Coat and looks how to spot one

very rough, harsh, fairly short

A bony, muscular hound made to shrug off bad weather and long days. The coat is short, crisp and wiry, never woolly or curly, and the face is not overly bushy.12

Coloursfawn, from golden wheaten to brick reda few black hairs on back and ears allowedsmall white star on the chest allowed12

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne. 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

An energetic hound that hunts over all kinds of ground; it needs long daily outings and scent-based activity.13

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short, harsh coat is low-fuss and sheds dirt well; a regular brush keeps it in order.12

Company who they like around

Friendly and sociable with people, and suited to life both as a working hound and as a family companion.23

The story where it all began

Fawn hounds from Brittany are among France's oldest scent hounds, with packs recorded from the 14th century and used against wolves. When wolves vanished in the 19th century the breed dwindled, but a club founded in 1949 gathered the survivors kept by farmers and hunters, and since the 1980s it has been fully restored.132

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    King François I is said to have kept a pack of the larger fawn Breton hounds.3

  2. 2

    Its hunting cry is a 'chopper' voice of short, repeated barks.1

  3. 3

    It is the parent breed of the shorter-legged Basset Fauve de Bretagne.3

  4. 4

    The rescue club was founded in 1949 by Marcel Pambrun.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Griffon Fauve de Bretagne' translates to 'Fawn Brittany Griffon,' where 'Fauve' refers to its fawn-colored coat and 'Bretagne' indicates its origin in the Brittany region of France.4

Name ideas for your new friend

FawnBreizhRustyPoppyBriarGorseTruffleSableMiloChouBiscuitCori

A day in the life told by a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne

I wake up with the sun, my nose twitching at the scent of dew on the heather. My human laughs as I prance to the door, my rough coat already shaking off the night. We head to the fields, and I zigzag, sniffing every tuft of grass. I find a rabbit trail and give a happy yelp, not to chase, just to tell the world I'm alive. My human calls me back with a gentle whistle, and I bound over, tail wagging. After a long ramble, we sit on a rock, and I lean against their knee. They scratch my ears, and I think: this is the best day ever.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 66, Group 6 Scent hounds, Section 1.2 Medium-sized hounds, with working trial.1
UKC
Scenthound Group; recognised 1 January 1996.2
Société Centrale Canine
Recognised in 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

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. 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

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. 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

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

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 Fauve de Bretagne, and at what times?

Adult Griffon Fauve de Bretagne should have at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feeding at consistent times each day helps their digestion, but exact times can fit your routine. Always follow the food label and your vet's advice for portion sizes.5

What should a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog's age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as these are especially harmful to dogs. Always check with your vet before introducing new foods.6

How often should I bathe a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Their short, harsh coat sheds dirt well, so you can bathe less often unless they get especially muddy or smelly.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne need brushing?

A weekly brush (every 7 days) keeps their short, wiry coat in good order and removes loose dirt. This low-fuss coat doesn't need daily brushing, but regular grooming helps maintain its natural texture.7 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part) to avoid pain and bleeding. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne need?

This energetic hound needs long daily outings and scent-based activity to stay happy and healthy. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play, so aim for at least an hour of exercise each day.13 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily or at least 2, 3 times a week using a dog-safe toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears can trap moisture; never push anything into the ear canal. Regular care prevents common issues.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne live?

Lifespan varies by individual, so it's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for the typical range for this breed. With proper care, many dogs live a long, happy life.

Is a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are easy-going, even-tempered and loving with people, making them wonderful family companions. Early socialisation helps them get along well with children and other pets; consult a breeder for specific advice.123

Can a Griffon Fauve de Bretagne be left alone?

Tolerance for being alone varies by individual dog. It's best to gradually accustom your Griffon to short periods alone and provide plenty of mental stimulation. Ask a good breeder or trainer for tips tailored to your dog.

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.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI standard no. 66 Griffon Fauve de Bretagne fci.beused for origin, recognition, height, coat, colour, temperament, history
  2. UKC Griffon Fauve de Bretagne standard ukcdogs.comused for recognition, height, coat, colour, temperament
  3. Griffon Fauve de Bretagne (Wikipedia) en.wikipedia.orgused for history, facts, recognition
  4. fci.be fci.be
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.