- Brief Historical Summary:
The Grand
Basset Griffon Vendéen is derived, like all bassets, from hounds
of superior size, in this case the Grand Griffon. The first selections
were made at the end of the 19th century by the Comte d'Elva who was
looking for subjects with "straight legs". But it was Paul Dézamy who was especially
responsable for fixing the type. He had understood that in order to catch
a hare, dogs of a certain size were needed. He fixed the size at
about 43 cm. Today used primarily when hunting with a gun, it is capable of hunting all
furry game, from the rabbit to the wild boar. A team of Grand Bassets won
the 5th edition of the European Cup for hare.- General Appearance: Slightly elongated overall, it has straight forelegs, the structure of a basset, and must not resemble a small Briquet. It is balanced and elegant.
- Behavior: Fast, well voiced, a passionate hunter; courageous, loves bramble and scrub.
- Temperament: A little stubborn but nevertheless well behaved. It is up to the master to take command.