As its name implies, the roots of Blue Gascony Griffon are closely linked to the former French region of Gascony, which includes the lands between Bordeaux, Toulouse and Pyrenees. Some 14th-century writings recount the existence of a blue-haired hunting dog that was effective at tracking wild boar and deer., which is probably his ancestor.

Although we know with some accuracy where the race originated, it is more difficult to trace your family tree exactly before the decade of 1920.

But, it is believed to be a cross between the Great Gascony Blue, which in turn is the product of several crosses of old hounds (including the Bloodhound), and a french griffon: or the Griffon Nivernais or the Grand Griffon Vendéen. It is not possible to establish precisely which of the two is, because the available descriptions are too imprecise, but at least it is acquired that it is a French griffon.

In 1920, a special normalization commission of the club Great Gascony Blue, of the Small Blue Gascony and of the Blue Gascony Griffon first established a standard for the latter, what allowed the Livre des Origines Français (LOF) officially differentiate him from his cousins. In fact, Until then it was considered a simple variety of the Great Gascony Blue. But, was not up 1963 which was officially recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale).

This did not prevent the gradual decline of the breed, in particular due to its geographic isolation and confidentiality. In fact, was close to extinction, so that in 1977 only 10 individuals of 3 distinct lines were listed in the LOF. But, the situation improved considerably in the following years, since the number exceeded 100 in 1981.

At the beginning of the decade of 1990, the breed even saw a major revival in popularity with hunting enthusiasts, both in France and abroad (dog exports to Italy, Switzerland, Mauritius, Canada, Netherlands…), which led to an increase in the number of births. So that, the number of annual registrations LOF increased less than 80 prior to 1990 to more than 500 in 1994, and even more than 800 in 1996, before stabilizing between 700 and 800 in the following years.

This madness in France and abroad led to United Kennel Club, one of the leading organizations in the United States, to recognize the race in 1991. But, didn't actually make emulators: for example, neither him American Kennel Club (AKC), neither him Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), nor the prestigious British Kennel Club took the step.

Aware of the danger that this sudden interest could represent for the health of the few remaining specimens, with the risk, in particular, of health abuses caused by an intensive breeding program to meet a high demand, the Club of Small Blue Gascony, of the Gascon Saintongeois and Ariégeois, in charge of the improvement of the race and affiliated with the Société Centrale Canine (SCC), proposed to the Conservatory of Regional Biological Heritage the elaboration of a safeguarding and improvement plan. This approach (and the strict breeding practices that followed) contributed to the preservation of the good health of the breed, without hindering its development. So, in the first decade of the century, about 850 births were counted each year by the LOF. Since then, the figure has decreased slightly, but there is still an average of 600 to 700 by year.

Photo: French Blue Gascony Griffon: Griffon Bleu de Gascogne by Alephalpha, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Blue Gascony Griffon it is rustic and solidly built. Very athletic, has a well-developed chest and a short, straight back that extends into a rather shaggy tail carried like a saber blade.

The head is ogival shaped, slightly vaulted, with a full forehead and a snout with a slight stop, sometimes slightly arched. The nose is black and wide. The eyes are oval, and its color varies between dark brown and brown. It also, despite his wide eyebrows, his look is very expressive. Located just below the eye line, the ears are flexible, curly and not very pointed, and reach the tip of the nose.

The mark of this dog is its hard and rough coat, giving it a slightly shaggy look. The coat is completely black and white, giving it the slate blue glow that gave it its name. Your body may also have a few more or less extensive black spots. In the head, there are usually two black spots on each side of the skull, covering ears, wrapping the eyes and stopping at the cheeks. These spots are separated in the upper part of the skull by a white hole, in the middle of which there is usually a small oval black spot, typical of the breed. More or less bright brown marks also color the upper part of the eyebrow, cheeks, whisker pads, the inside of the ear, as well as the extremities and the lower part of the tail.

Last, sexual dimorphism is only slightly pronounced in this breed: the female is usually only a few centimeters smaller than the male.

Size:

• Males of 50 to 57 cm.
• females of 48 to 55 cm..
• Weight: 18 to 20 kg

Character and skills "Gascuña Azul Giffon"

Originally bred for their tracking qualities, the Blue Gascony Griffon They are also affectionate companion dogs that adapt well to family life., as long as the family is active. Loyal and very attached to their teachers, as shown through various displays of affection, accompany them in all their activities with great enthusiasm and energy, without the need for undue attention.

He is a dog that loves children, with whom he is very patient and gentle. Generally well returned, representing excellent playmates for him, also bursting with energy. It is much less suitable for the elderly, they will soon find it exhausting.

Used to living in a group, can be alone during the day, but it only prospers if it has company at all times. Adopting an extra dog can be a solution to help you cope with the absence of its owner.

People and animals who are strangers to the dog generally receive a reserved but not aggressive welcome. Take the time to observe them before deciding what attitude to adopt.

This relative distance does not make it a good guardian, especially because it is not very territorial. In fact, if he barks when he sees a newcomer, it is more to announce your presence than to prevent you from passing and dissuade you from moving on.

Coexistence with other dogs in the house is perfectly possible and usually does not pose any particular problem.. Even when you don't know them yet, the Blue Gascony Griffon he is very sociable with his companions, and is both curious and peaceful once introduced. They don't try to dominate other dogs, and they will only attack if they are repeatedly and aggressively confronted by them.

On the other hand, it is not a good idea to try to get him to live in a house that also has a cat or small pet (like a rodent or a bird). Being a hunter at heart, would tend to relentlessly chase him around the house, even if you receive a strict education on the subject.

True electric battery and always with the truffle glued to the ground, the Blue Gascony Griffon only really flourishes in large spaces and houses with gardens. Although he likes to gasp for hours at his family's feet, not a city dweller, and is very likely to attract the ire of the neighborhood with his inopportune howls. By the way, can live perfectly well in an outdoor dog house, as long as you have enough to stimulate your intelligence and abilities – especially through play sessions with his teacher.

He particularly likes to snoop, sniff out clues and follow them to their source without being distracted by anything. This trait is very popular with hunting dogs., but it is more problematic for companion dogs, as it can lead them to run away or stubbornly go in one direction while walking. A high fence should be provided at home, and a strong strap should be used to keep its paws – if you are not paying attention – To walk. A connected GPS collar can also be a good investment to make sure you know when he's out for a walk at all times.

In addition to hunting, this hardworking and hardy dog ​​has a taste for many other activities. Enjoy throwing games (to be played in moderation, as they reinforce their chasing instinct), object search games (that challenge your exceptional sense of smell), the long walks, the race, swimming or even canicross, in which it excels. Almost everything can be found thanks to your eyes, as long as it comes to exercising and / or pleasing your master.

In any case, if your significant need for exercise is not met, it is likely to attack objects and plants in the house to evacuate its excess energy, or even your stress.

Educación «Grifón Blue de Gascuña»

The kindness of the Blue Gascony Griffon and his loyalty make him an obedient and diligent student. But, do not forget that he is an intelligent dog, which means he learns the commands just as fast as the nonsense.

It also, it is important to socialize him from an early age to limit his shyness and natural distrust of people and dogs he does not know. This is especially true if you are intended for hunting, since then it is more likely that you will meet other dogs that you do not know.

Having said that, they are quite docile companions, easy to train and educate: an ideal breed of dog for a novice master. But, be aware that obedience is achieved more through cooperation than coercion. So, it is just as important to congratulate and/or reward him whenever a command has been well executed as it is to reprimand him in a firm voice when he does something stupid. By the way, being firm does not mean being aggressive: yelling or being aggressive will only make them run away, or it will even make them suspicious and stressed.

Hunting training can begin as soon as 6 months after learning the basic commands. Treasure hunting is recommended to help you develop your sense of smell and intelligence, while the presence of more experienced dogs can help you get used to the noise of guns and the company of strange dogs.

Health and care "Blue Gascuña Giffon"

Sturdy and durable, the Blue Gascony Griffon it is made for outdoor living and can withstand both heat and cold.

The main health problems observed in this breed are related to outdoor life and, in particular, with hunting: fractures, wounds, bites, as well as diseases transmitted by parasites (piroplasmosis, leptospirosis, etc.).

You also have a predisposition to stomach inversion (stomach dilatation-torsion syndrome).

It also, the hanging shape of their ears carries an increased risk of ear infections.

Last, your voracity makes you prone to obesity, especially if your activity level is still limited. This can facilitate the appearance and aggravate the impact of various ailments and constitutes a true vicious circle., since an overweight dog tends to be less active and therefore… fatter.

Go through a serious breeder of Blue Gascony Griffon allows you to put all the possibilities on your part to adopt a puppy in good health (and that is still the case). The professional must be able to present a certificate issued by a veterinarian certifying that he is indeed healthy, as well as details of the vaccinations administered to the animal, recorded in your health book (or vaccination book).

It also, as with any dog, excessive activity should be avoided until you reach adulthood. In fact, the bones and joints of a growing puppy are particularly fragile, and problems at this level could have lifelong consequences (malformations, etc.).

Finally, but the Blue Gascony Griffon is generally in good health, this does not mean that you should not wear it regularly (At least once a year) to the vet for a complete health check, that allows you to detect any problems as soon as possible. It is also the occasion to carry out your vaccination reminders, that are especially important to a dog like him, who usually spends a lot of time outdoors. Your antiparasitic treatments are at least as important; your landlord should make sure to renew them whenever necessary.

The price of a "blue gas tap"

The price of a puppy Blue Gascony Griffon in France it is between 900 and 1400 EUR, depending on the prestige of the kennel, the lineage from which it comes and its intrinsic characteristics (more or less conformity to the breed standard, physical qualities, etc.).

Outside france, it is very difficult to find a breeder Blue Gascony Griffon. The most likely option is then to import one from its country of origin.. If required, transportation and administrative costs are added to the purchase price of the animal and, of course, it is advisable to know and respect the regulations regarding the importation of a dog from abroad.

Characteristics "Blue Gascony Griffon"

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a dog of the breed "Blue Gascony Griffon" you know certain factors. Not all breeds of dogs are apt to live in an apartment, you must take into account his character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.

Adaptation ⓘ 2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	friendly dog ​​ⓘ 3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	hair loss ⓘ 3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Affection level ⓘ 4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Need for exercise ⓘ 5,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Social need ⓘ 3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Home ⓘ 4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Toilet ⓘ 3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Friendly with strangers ⓘ 2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
barking ⓘ 4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Health ⓘ 4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Territorial ⓘ 4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Cat friendly ⓘ 2,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Intelligence ⓘ 4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Versatility ⓘ 3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
Child friendly ⓘ 3,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	Surveillance ⓘ 4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)	joy ⓘ 4,0 of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

Images "Blue Gascony Griffon"

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Photos:

1 – A Blue Gascony Griffon female by Canarian, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
2 – Blue griffin from Gascony by https://pxhere.com/es/photo/1331479
3 – Blue griffin from Gascony by https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1089317
4 – Blue griffin from Gascony by http://www.adopt-a-griffon.eu/en/breeds/griffon-bleu-de-gascogne/

Videos "Blue Gascony Griffon"

HTTPS://youtube.com/watch?v=AfvDdR1bX2s Griffons bleus au Concours de meutes à Pranles	HTTPS://youtube.com/watch?v=YZWGz2C0DnY Segugi Griffon Bleu de Gascogne – speciale cinofilia Game Fair 2015

Type and recognitions:

• FCI CLASSIFICATION:
• Group :
• Section : . .

Federations:

• – FCI – Group 6: Scent hounds, and related breeds. – Section 1.2: Medium-sized Hounds. ⓘ
• – UKC – Scenthounds ⓘ
• – Central Canine Society ⓘ

Use:

This is a multi-use dog. It is used for hunting with hare shotgun. His ardor and his good smell make him a very value assistant to follow the trail of the wild boar.

General appearance:

It is a rustic appearance tap, of solid constitution. Save the just medium between the two races from which it originates.

He has a good smell and his bark is sound. Is applied in hunting, that conducts con enthusiasm and initiative. It is unbelievable, But affectionate.

Head:

• Skull : Seen from the front, It is slightly bulging, but not too wide. The occipital protuberance is slightly marked.
  Seen from above, the back is ogival shaped. Forehead is bulging.
• Depression links (Stop) : Little pointed.

facial region:

• Truffle : It is black, wide. The Windows are wide open.
• Lips : They are poorly developed, But they cover the lower jaw.
• Snout : Straight nose cane, the lightly arched. Its length is almost equal to that of the skull.
• Jaws / Teeth : The joint is in the form of scissors. The incisors are set at right angles to the jaws..
• Cheeks : Thin.

Eyes : They have an oval shape. They are dark brown color; very expressive and living.

Ears : They are flexible, twisted, but not too much. They end on a slight tip and must reach the birth of the nose without exceeding their limb. Implanted just below the eye line.

Neck:

Body:

• Back : Well pronounced, short.
• Pork loin : Muscular and slightly arched.
• Rump : Very slightly oblique.
• Breast : Well developed. Rounded ribs, although not in excess.
• Flanks : Bulky. The lower line is slightly raised backwards.

Tail:

Tips

PREVIOUS MEMBERS : Seen in conjunction, They are strong and well approved. They do not give an appearance of heaviness.

• Shoulder : Quite oblique and muscular.
• Elbows : Glued to the body.
• forearms : Strong.

LATER MEMBERS : Seen in conjunction, the limbs are regular. The rear members are well developed.

• Thighs : Well muscled.
• Hock : Close to the ground.

FEET : They have oval shape and the fingers are thin and well together. The pads and nails are black.

Movement:

Mantle

SKIN : It is quite thick and elastic. Black, or strongly streaked with black spots. It's never completely white. The mucous membranes are black.

HAIR : It's hard, harshly. It is a little shorter on the head, where the eyebrows, quite dense, They do not cover their eyes. It is much shorter and stuck on the ears.

COLOR : Completely speckled with black and white, imparting a slate blue reflection. It may or may not be marked with more or less extended black spots. Usually, there are two black spots on each side of the head, that cover the ears, circle the eyes and stop at the cheeks. These do not join over the top of the head, but they leave a white space in the center of which there is often a small oval black spot., typical of the breed. Above the eyes are two more or less uploaded fire marks located on the zygomatic arcades simulating four eyes. Traces of tan can also be found on the cheeks, the lips, the inside of the ears, the limbs and under the tail.

Size and weight:

Height to the cross :

• In males it is 50 to 57 cm.,
• in females it is 48 to 55 cm..

Fouls:

Any deviation from the above mentioned criteria is considered as missing and the gravity of this is considered in proportion to the degree of deviation to the standard and its consequences on the health and well-being of the dog.

Head :
• Head too short.
• Skull too wide.
• Pointed snout.
• Clear brown eyes.
• Apparent conjunctive.
• Too long ears, or very hairy.

Body :
• Largo; loose top line.
• Croup sagging.

Tail :
• Deviad or too short.

Tips :
• Hock closed, seen from behind.
• Crushed feet.

Behavior :
• Shy dog.

MISS PLAYOFFS

• Fearful or aggressive dog.
• Lack of characteristic type.
• It would be anatomic deformation.
• Notable lack that causes any impediment.
• Upper or lower prognathism.
• Light eyes.
• By the threaten the laugh.
• Any other color that is not established by the standard.

Any dog ​​showing clear signs of physical or behavioral abnormalities should be disqualified..

Males should have two normal-appearing testicles fully descended into the scrotum..

1. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne (English).
2. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne (French).
3. Griffon bleu de Gascogne (German).
4. Griffon bleu de Gascogne (Portuguese).
5. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne (español).