Griffon Fauve de Bretagne
Fawn Colored Brittany Basset, GFB
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is a robust and compact breed characterized by its wiry coat and notable agility. These delightful dogs are full of energy and have a playful disposition, making them great companions for families, including those with children and other pets. However, their exuberance can sometimes be a bit much for very young kids. To manage their spirited nature, consistent training is crucial to keep them from getting into trouble. Although they don’t bark excessively, they do have a distinctive way of vocalizing and will notify you if something catches their attention. Naturally sociable, they are always eager to make new friends.
Breed Origin
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is thought to have originated in France during the 13th century and is classified as a scenthound. Renowned for its exceptional pack-hunting skills, this breed excels at tracking and cornering game while awaiting the arrival of hunters. In the 1520s, Admiral d’Anneboulde introduced the breed to the French court, where King Francois I kept a pack for hunting. For a long time, ownership of these dogs was limited to the aristocracy, but following the French Revolution, they became available to the general public for hunting activities. Initially, these dogs were primarily employed to hunt wild boar and wolves. However, the extinction of the native wolf in the 19th century caused a drastic reduction in their numbers, nearly driving the breed to extinction. In the 1940s, efforts to save the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne began with a dedicated breeding program. Thanks to careful breeding practices and effective promotion, the breed regained its reputation as a sought-after hunting companion in France. Mme. F. Corbeau, a member of the French Club du Fauve de Bretagne, has played a crucial role in overseeing the breed's development, helping to maintain its popularity among French hunters. Although still relatively rare outside of France, the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne has begun to gain recognition in the United States, resulting in the formation of several breed clubs in various countries.
Breed Appearance
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is a sturdy hunting breed distinguished by its rugged appearance. It boasts a shaggy, wiry coat that varies from medium to short in length, but it should never be curly or woolly. Acceptable coat colors include fawn, which can range from a golden wheaten shade to a deep brick red. This breed has a broad nose with wide nostrils, always in black or dark brown. Its muzzle is elongated and slightly tapers towards the tip, adorned with a moustache and a small beard. The eyes are dark brown, expressive, and should neither protrude nor be set too deeply in the skull. The face is framed by slightly bushy eyebrows, which should not be overly hairy. The ears hang down and align with the eyes, reaching the tip of the nose when pulled forward. The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne has a robust, muscular body with a deep, broad chest, and its tail is carried in a medium-length sickle shape.
Care Routine
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne requires grooming multiple times a week, utilizing a fine-toothed comb along with either a stiff bristle or slicker brush. Their coarse, wiry coat is naturally resistant to dirt and tends not to mat easily. However, if regular brushing is overlooked, it can result in matting and a deterioration of coat quality. For those with longer fur, hand stripping is essential in both spring and fall, while shorter-coated dogs typically need this treatment only in the spring. They do experience seasonal shedding, so without regular brushing during this time, hair can accumulate on clothing and furniture. Additionally, their droopy ears make them more prone to ear infections, so it’s crucial to clean their ears weekly and keep them dry to prevent such problems. Nail trimming should be performed as needed, and baths should be limited to when absolutely necessary, using a shampoo formulated specifically for wiry coats.
Behavior & Temperament
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is an energetic and lively breed, celebrated for its playful and sometimes cheeky demeanor. These dogs flourish in social settings, making early exposure to diverse environments and experiences vital for instilling good behavior. As a family companion, the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is generally easy to train, which enhances its role as a delightful pet. However, their high energy levels make them less suitable for apartment living. They typically get along well with children and other dogs, and can live peacefully with smaller pets if they are raised together. To help the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne develop into a well-adjusted and happy family member, consistent training is crucial. Like all dogs, they thrive in a structured environment with established rules. Given their playful nature, it’s beneficial to provide a range of toys, particularly interactive ones that stimulate their curiosity and encourage them to hunt for treats. Moreover, a securely fenced yard is essential to ensure their safety and containment when they are outside without supervision.
Play & Exercise
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne needs plenty of exercise to ensure their mental and physical health. Without enough activity, they may become anxious and challenging to handle. While they aren't usually prone to excessive barking, they can become quite talkative if left alone for long stretches. It's essential to take your Griffon Fauve de Bretagne on extended walks and participate in playtime, whether in your yard or at a dog park. A short walk around the block won't meet the needs of this lively breed. With their impressive endurance, they enjoy running and can happily sprint for up to an hour each day.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
1.8 Cups
Daily Activity
60 Minutes
Average Lifespan
12 Years
Origin
13th Century
Type
Pure Breeds
Size
Medium
Origin Country
France
Brush Frequency
Weekly
Coat Texture
Wiry
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Member Clubs
PETINNATE
Scenthound
UKC
Scenthound
Height & Weight
Weight
31 lbs (14 kg)Male: 31 lbs (14 kg) , Female: 31 lbs (14 kg)
Height
15 inches (38 sm)Male: 15 inches (38 sm) , Female: 15 inches (38 sm)
6 Months
16 lbs ( m 16 lbs, f 16 lbs )
9 inches ( m 9 inches, f 9 inches )
12 Months
23 lbs ( m 23 lbs, f 23 lbs )
12 inches ( m 12 inches, f 12 inches )
18 Months
31 lbs ( m 31 lbs, f 31 lbs )
14 inches ( m 14 inches, f 14 inches )
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Brown
Coat Colors
Red
Fawn
