Description
Arriving from France in 1990, the ‘Grand’, as his devotees call him, is described as ‘low to ground’, hence the Basset in his full name, which is customarily shortened to GBGV. He hunts rabbit and hare and uses his very efficient nose to keep him on track. He is perhaps somewhat taller than he appears from a distance and is not just a different form of the Petit Basset.
The GBGV is a chap with a sense of humour and delights in joining in with human activity, although, being a true hound, he has a tendency to be hard of hearing when it suits him! He is a canine escapologist; his owner’s garden requires an intensity of attention to boundary maintenance.
He needs regular grooming of an unfussy nature. He eats well and uncritically, he has a prodigious voice, and he has stamina.
This is a breed that will recruit many disciples; both existing breeders and future devotees will need to ensure that it is not spoilt by too much popularity in its early years here.
Breed Group
Hound
Vulnerable Native Breed
No
Size
Medium
How much exercise?
More than 2 hours per day
Length of coat
Long
How much grooming?
Every day
Supposedly sheds?*
Yes
Town or Country
Country
Type of home
Small or Large House
Minimum Garden Size
Large
Lifespan
Over 10 Years
* If you are asthmatic or have an allergy, you should consult your medical advisor before considering obtaining a dog. More information can also be found on
the Kennel Club website.
The Hound Breed Group
Breeds originally used for hunting either by scent or by sight. The scent hounds include the Beagle and Bloodhound and the sight hounds such breeds as the Whippet and Greyhound. Many of them enjoy a significant amount of exercise and can be described as dignified, aloof but trustworthy companions.