The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne temperament is something special. He is a fiercely passionate hunter who also happens to be a sensitive and affectionate family dog.
He’s a rare French scenthound who is slowly gaining popularity in North America because of his ability to fit into most homes as a loving companion dog.
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Griffon Bleu de Gascogne Temperament
1. Independent
Like most hunting dogs, the Griffon Bleu can be an independent thinker. This doesn’t make him challenging to train, though, as it can with other hunting breeds.
But it does make him a versatile hunter. While he is a pack dog, he is also content to hunt by himself and to make his own decisions.
2. Affectionate
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne temperament is openly affectionate to his family members. He loves to cuddle on the coach.
3. Playful
This guy has an outgoing and adventurous personality. He is nearly always looking for someone to play with.
4. Obedient
This dog is usually eager to please his owner/trainer.
5. Loyal
He forms strong attachments with his family members.
6. Docile
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne temperament is gentle and sweet. He is good with children.
7. Friendly
He is friendly with nearly everyone, including strangers.
8. Lively
This is a bright and lively breed. He has lots of positive energy, though he may appear a bit shy at first.
9. Alert
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne temperament is vigilant. He will bark loudly to alert you to approaching strangers.
10. Sensitive
The Griffon Bleu gets his feelings hurt easily. He needs to be treated with respect or he will be difficult to train.
11. Social
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne temperament is quite social. He has a pack mentality, so he enjoys the company of humans, particularly his family. He also gets along well with other dogs.
The Griffon Bleu should not be left along for long periods of time. He is prone to separation anxiety.
12. Adaptable
This breed’s personality is go-with-the-flow, on and off the field. He is equally comfortable indoors or outside.
On the hunt, he is comfortable with nearly any terrain and climate. He is also happy hunting independently or as part of a pack.
13. Excitable
The Griffon Bleu can be overly enthusiastic at times. You will want to supervise him with very young children to prevent accidents.
Griffon Bleu de Gascogne History
The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is a scenthound that originated in France. The breed’s ancestors have been around since ancient times. Historians believe they were brought by Phoenicians from the Middle East.
The Griffon Bleu is the product of a crossing of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne and the Griffon Nivernais. The Grand Griffon Vendéen may have played a role as well.
Breeders’ intent was to create a version of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne to hunt smaller game. The Griffon Bleu traditionally hunts both large and small game.
This dog is one of four Bleu de Gascogne breeds. The others are the Basset Bleu de Gascogne, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne, and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne.
All of the Gascogne breeds are excellent hunters with outstanding senses of smell. They all have a passion for hunting with great energy and stamina.
The Griffon Bleu is specifically prized for his ability to hunt solo or in packs of up to 100 dogs. He is also known for having a “good voice.” The Griffon Bleu is the only one of the four related breeds that have the long, wiry coat.
The Griffon Bleu is a rare dog outside of France, but they are gaining popularity. People are realizing that this breed makes a wonderful family pet. The Griffon Bleu is