Overview
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is the full-sized relative of the Basset Fauve, a medium hound with a harsh fawn to red-wheaten coat, a lean frame and the determination of a dog that has chased wolves and boar through Breton thickets for centuries. It remains popular with French hunters and is very uncommon in Britain.
The character is upbeat and sociable, with none of the shyness of some rarer hounds. It likes people, gets on with other dogs and would rather be moving than sitting. What it lacks is any instinct to stay close when there is scent to follow.
Exercise and walking needs
Ninety minutes of lively exercise a day is a fair minimum. The breed is light on its feet and fast through cover, and a leisurely pavement circuit will leave it bouncing off the walls.
Combine a brisk lead walk with time on a long line in rough ground, and finish with a short search game. That mix tires the body and the nose together.
On the walk
- Recall: The nose has the casting vote. Expect a dog that means to come back but gets delayed by every interesting trail.
- Cover: It will dive into brambles and gorse without hesitation. Check for scratches and ticks afterwards.
- Other dogs: Pleasant and playful. Suits group walks with dogs that enjoy a run.
- Pace: Quick and tireless. A fit walker who likes to cover ground will get on well with it.
Tips for professional walkers
- Attach the line to a harness so sudden lunges after scent do not jolt the neck.
- Favour woods and heathland; manicured parks waste the dog's talents.
- Brush the coat through after rough walks to remove burrs and seeds.
- Reward every check-in; the breed is biddable enough to learn that returning pays.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog been worked on boar or fox, and how does it react to them in the wild?
- What recall does it have, and is there a whistle in use?
- Any skin sensitivity or tick history you should look out for after wooded walks?