Griffon Nivernais

Also called Griffon-Vendéen-Nivernais (early name)

Courageous and self-reliant, with a strong will of its own.

Size	Large
Height	53 to 62 cm (21 to 24 in)males 55 to 62 cm, females 53 to 60 cm1 2
Coat	Long, shaggy, rough
Origin	France (Nivernais and the Morvan hills, central France).1 3
Group	Scent hounds and related breeds (FCI group 6)

Recognised breedShort profile

excellent nose

brave but sensible

great stamina on rough ground

1 2

Personality what they are like

Courageous and self-reliant, with a strong will of its own. It learns its hunting job easily but benefits from early, steady obedience training.1 2 3

Coat and looks how to spot one

long, shaggy, rough

A lean but strong hound, slightly longer than tall and built for stamina. The coat is long, harsh and tousled, with bristly brows, a light moustache and hairy ears, giving a thoughtful, rather wistful face.1 2

Colourswolf greyblue greywild-boar grey (grizzle)fawn darkened with black hairstan markings on head and legs1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Griffon Nivernais. 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 7every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Bred for long days after wild boar in difficult country, so it needs a lot of exercise and outlets for scenting.1 2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The shaggy, weatherproof coat needs regular brushing to stay neat; check ears and beard after walks.1 2

Company who they like around

Traditionally hunts in small packs, so it is used to working alongside other dogs.2 1

The story where it all began

Shaggy hounds kept by farmers and nobles in central France hunted wolf and boar for centuries, but the old type faded after the French Revolution. From 1925 hunters in the Morvan rebuilt it, adding Griffon Vendéen, Foxhound and Otterhound blood, and founded a breed club the same year.1 3 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It was once called the Griffon-Vendéen-Nivernais.2
2
Admirers have called it a wild boar hunter without equal.2
3
Tan markings are bold in puppies and tend to fade as the dog grows up.2
4
Its rebuilders modelled it on the old Celtic hound type known as Canes Segusii.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after the Nivernais region in central France, where it originated. It was originally known as the Griffon-Vendéen-Nivernais.2

Name ideas for your new friend

MorvanBrambleRemyChampHazelBriarGastonFernTruffleWillowCedarBiscuit

A day in the life told by a Griffon Nivernais

I wake up to the smell of pine and damp earth. My human stretches, and I give a deep, happy bark that echoes through the hills. We set off into the woods, my beard brushing the undergrowth. I find a fascinating scent, a wild boar passed here hours ago. I follow it, my nose low, my tail steady. My human calls me, and I come, but slowly, because I'm a thinker. We walk side by side, and I show them a hidden stream. At the end of the day, I curl up by the fire, my coat smelling of moss. My human says I'm a good boy. I agree.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 17, Group 6 Scent hounds, Section 1.2 Medium-sized hounds.1
UKC: Scenthound Group; recognised 1 January 1995.2
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

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

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

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

Feed your adult Griffon Nivernais at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Stick to set times each day, as their stomachs empty within a few hours. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4

What should a Griffon Nivernais eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Never give human foods like these, and always consult your vet for a complete list.5

How often should I bathe a Griffon Nivernais?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect their weatherproof coat.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Griffon Nivernais need brushing?

Brush your Griffon Nivernais weekly to keep their shaggy coat neat and free of tangles. Their long, harsh coat benefits from regular brushing, and Pet Wiki's plan recommends a weekly session.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Griffon Nivernais's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part) to avoid pain and bleeding. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Griffon Nivernais need?

This breed needs a lot of daily exercise, as they were bred for long hunts. Plan for at least an hour of vigorous activity each day, including walks, runs, and scent games. A tired Griffon is a happy Griffon.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Griffon Nivernais's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth at least every other day, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and dry them gently. Never push anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Griffon Nivernais live?

Lifespan varies by individual, so ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations. With proper care, many dogs live into their early teens. Regular vet checkups help ensure a long, healthy life.

Is a Griffon Nivernais good with children and other pets?

This breed is courageous and self-reliant, and traditionally hunts in packs, so they can get along with other dogs. Their suitability with children depends on training and socialization; early, steady obedience training is recommended. Always supervise interactions.1 2 3

Can a Griffon Nivernais be left alone?

This breed has a strong will and needs plenty of exercise and companionship. They may not do well left alone for long periods, as they can become bored or destructive. Provide mental stimulation and consider a dog walker if you're away.1 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.