Dog breed · France
A Briquet Griffon Vendéen is a medium-sized griffon scenthound originating in Vendeé, France. The Briquet Griffon Vendéen was recognized by the FCI in 1954.
Temperament: The Briquet is a passionate hunter with stamina and fortitude. It should be able to pick up a cold trail as well as a hot one. Like its close relations the other vendèen hounds, the Briquet relishes its time outdoors with its family. While they are not high-strung, they are lively and enthusiastic dogs. Bred to work in packs as well as on their own, they get along well with other dogs and are not overly possessive about anything. They are fine companion for children.
Griffons do not particularly take to being told what to do. They do not mind being cajoled, bribed, or played with - and if these things lead them to do something their owner likes, then everyone is happy.
Appearance: The Briquet Griffon Vendéen has a short head, low-set ears and a rough double coat. It comes in solid or mixed colors, fawn, light brown, white and orange, white and gray and even tri-colored. Males are 50–55 centimetres (20–22 in) in height, females are 48–53 centimetres (19–21 in).
Exercise: Bred to hunt large game, Briquet Griffon Vendéen usually worked as a small pack.
History: Prior to World War I, it was bred down in size by the Comte d’Elva from the Grand Griffon Vendéen. The name Briquet means "medium-sized dog" in French. The Briquet Griffon Vendéen was almost extinct after World War II, but thanks to the effort of Hubert Dezamy, a French dog show judge, the breed was restored.
