Griffon Nivernais

For a quick introduction to the breed’s main characteristics, we’ve compiled key information in this table. This will help you get a first impression of this unusual dog.

The history of the Griffon Nivernais is one of the oldest and most fascinating among all French hounds. It is believed that its direct ancestors were the legendary “grey dogs of Saint Louis” (gris de Saint-Louis), which were used by the Gauls to hunt wolves and boars. These dogs were known in France as early as the 12th century and were highly valued by the royal court for their bravery and working abilities. For centuries, these hounds were an integral part of the hunting culture of the Nièvre region, from which the breed takes its name.

However, after the French Revolution (1789-1799), the breed was on the brink of extinction. The downfall of the aristocracy and the decline of traditional large-scale hunting led to the near disappearance of the Griffon Nivernais. The breed’s revival began only in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to a group of enthusiasts. They sought out the few surviving descendants of the “grey dogs” and crossed them with other wire-haired hounds to restore the gene pool. Breeds such as the Grand Griffon Vendéen, the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne, and possibly the Otterhound took part in the breed’s restoration, giving it its modern look and stamina.

The breed club was founded in 1925, when the first standard was also developed. Today, the Griffon Nivernais is a respected hunting breed not only in France but also beyond its borders. Its unique working qualities and ability to operate in difficult terrain make it an indispensable assistant in hunting large game. In the USA and Canada, these dogs are sometimes even used for bear hunting.

The Griffon Nivernais is a dog with a sturdy, muscular, yet lean build that conveys an impression of stamina and strength. Its appearance is very distinctive and recognisable, primarily thanks to its long, shaggy coat, which gives it a “tousled” look. It is for this reason that the dog was sometimes jokingly called “the ragamuffin” in its homeland.

The main distinguishing feature is its harsh, wiry coat, which the French call poil de sanglier (wild boar hair). It should not be curly or soft. Such a coat ideally protects the dog from bad weather, cold, and insect bites, as well as from branches and thorns while chasing prey through dense thickets. On the muzzle, the coat forms thick eyebrows, a moustache, and a beard, which gives the dog a stern and serious expression.

The character of the Griffon Nivernais is a complex but fascinating blend of hunting passion and calm devotion to its family. To understand this dog, you must always remember its original purpose.

In the field, it is a tireless, brave, and incredibly persistent pursuer. It has an outstanding sense of smell and a loud, penetrating voice with which it alerts the hunter to a found trail. The Griffon is not afraid to engage with large game, such as a boar, showing exceptional courage. Its independence and self-reliance at work are traits highly valued by hunters but can create difficulties in training for an average owner.

At home, it is a completely different dog. It is calm, well-balanced, and very attached to its family. The Griffon Nivernais is not a one-person dog; it gives its love to all family members. Since they were historically used for pack hunting, they are not prone to aggression towards other dogs and generally get along well with them, especially if they have grown up together. However, their hunting instinct is very strong, so any small household pets (cats, rodents, rabbits) may be perceived as potential prey. Early and correct socialisation can help, but complete trust in this matter is unwise.

The Griffon is reserved with strangers but not aggressive. Its loud bark is more of an announcement of a visitor’s arrival than a sign of distrust. This makes it a good watchdog, but not a guard dog. It is patient and friendly with children, provided that the children are taught to respect the animal and its personal space.

Before getting a serious dog like the Griffon Nivernais, it’s important to soberly evaluate all its advantages and disadvantages. This breed is not for everyone.

Caring for a Griffon Nivernais has its own peculiarities related to its origins and purpose. This is not a sofa dog, and it needs appropriate conditions.

1. Physical exercise. This is a key aspect of their care. A Griffon Nivernais needs a minimum of 1.5–2 hours of intensive exercise every day. This isn’t just a walk on a lead, but running, long hikes through the woods, and the opportunity to run freely in a secure area. Swimming is also a great activity, as these dogs usually love water. An insufficient amount of exercise will lead to destructive behaviour, constant barking, and health problems.
2. Grooming and coat care. Despite its shaggy appearance, coat care is not difficult. It needs to be brushed with a hard brush about once a week to remove dead hair and dirt. Frequent bathing is not recommended, so as not to damage the protective layer of skin oils. It is sufficient to wash the dog only when absolutely necessary. After every walk in the woods, you should check the coat, paws, and ears for ticks, burrs, and other foreign objects.
3. Ear care. As with all dogs with drop ears, the Griffon Nivernais’s ears are poorly ventilated, which creates a risk of infections and inflammation (otitis). It is necessary to regularly, at least once a week, inspect and clean the ears with a special lotion. This is especially important after swimming.
4. Living conditions. The ideal place for a Griffon is a country house with a large, securely fenced garden. The fence must be high and strong, as these dogs are prone to digging under and escaping if they catch an interesting scent. It is highly inadvisable to keep them in a city flat.

Training a Griffon Nivernais is a challenge even for an experienced dog handler. Their stubbornness and independence are the result of selective breeding aimed at self-reliant work in the forest, far from the hunter. They are intelligent but do not strive to please people at all costs. Similar to other stubborn hounds, such as the Polski Gończy or the Polish Hound (Ogar Polski), the Griffon Nivernais requires a special approach.

Here are the key principles for successful training:

• Early start: Begin socialisation and teaching basic commands from 3–4 months of age.
• Leadership and consistency: The owner must become an undisputed but fair leader for the Griffon. The rules established in the home must be consistent and followed by all family members.
• Positive reinforcement: Griffons respond well to tasty rewards and praise. Harshness, shouting, and physical punishment will only increase their stubbornness and can destroy trust.
• Patience: Be prepared to repeat commands many times. What the dog did today, it might “forget” tomorrow. This is not a sign of stupidity but a manifestation of its independent nature.
• The “Come!” command: This is the most important and difficult command for any hound. It needs to be practised constantly, starting from an early age, and you should never let the dog off the lead in an unfenced area.

If you plan to use the dog for hunting, its specialised training is best entrusted to a professional. If the Griffon is just a companion for you, a general obedience course will suffice, but it will require significant effort from you.

The Griffon Nivernais is a breed with naturally robust health, hardened by centuries of work in harsh conditions. Thanks to strict selection for working qualities, they do not have a long list of hereditary diseases. However, as with any breed, there are certain risks:

• Hip dysplasia: A common problem among large and active dogs. It’s important to choose a puppy from tested parents.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A hereditary eye disease that leads to blindness. Responsible breeders test their dogs for this gene.
• Ear infections (otitis): Due to the structure of their ears, the risk of inflammation is constant. Regular prophylactic cleaning is mandatory.
• Hunting-related injuries: Cuts, scratches, bites. Active dogs, especially those working in the woods, often suffer minor injuries.
• Gastric torsion (bloat): A life-threatening condition typical of dogs with deep chests. Owners should know its symptoms and preventive measures (feeding small portions, avoiding activity immediately after eating).

The dense coat reliably protects the Griffon from cold and rain but makes it vulnerable to overheating. In hot weather, avoid intense exercise and ensure the dog has access to a cool place and fresh water.

The nutrition of a Griffon Nivernais must meet its high energy needs. This is especially true for working dogs during the hunting season. There are two main approaches to feeding: ready-made dry food and natural feeding.

Dry food: This is the simplest and most balanced option. You should choose high-quality premium or super-premium foods designed for active large-breed dogs. The first ingredient on the list should be meat. The amount of food is calculated according to the instructions on the package, but always adjusted depending on the specific dog’s weight, age, and activity level. For a typical 12-15kg bag of premium food, you can expect to pay around £40 to £70, which will last for about a month.

Natural feeding: This option requires more time and knowledge from the owner. The basis of the diet (about 50-60%) should be lean raw meat (beef, poultry) and offal. The rest consists of:

• Grains: Buckwheat, rice, oatmeal.
• Vegetables and fruits: Carrots, pumpkin, courgettes, apples (raw or cooked).
• Fermented milk products: Kefir, low-fat cottage cheese.
• Eggs: 1-2 times a week.

With natural feeding, the addition of vitamin and mineral complexes is mandatory. Important: To prevent gastric torsion, the daily portion should be divided into two meals (morning and evening) and the dog should not be fed immediately before or after physical activity.

• The name “Griffon” comes from the type of coat – harsh and bristly.
• Thanks to their stamina and courage, Griffon Nivernais are able to pursue a boar for many hours, covering dozens of kilometres across rugged terrain.
• It is believed that these dogs are depicted on many medieval tapestries illustrating scenes of royal hunting.
• Their voice is so loud and melodious that experienced hunters can determine from its tone which animal has been found and what stage the chase is in.
• Despite its ancient history, the breed remains quite rare outside of France and the circle of hunting enthusiasts.

Can a Griffon Nivernais live in a flat?
No, it is strictly not recommended. This dog needs space, a large area for free running, and intensive daily exercise, which is almost impossible to provide in a city environment.

Does the Griffon Nivernais shed a lot?
Shedding is moderate and seasonal. Their coarse coat does not scatter all over the house like the fur of smooth-coated breeds; instead, it tends to gather in small tufts that are easy to remove during brushing.

Is their coat difficult to care for?
No, care is minimal. Brushing once a week is enough, along with checking for dirt and parasites after walks. Clipping or trimming is not necessary.

Can this dog be left alone for a whole day?
It’s not advisable. Like any pack dog, the Griffon tolerates long periods of solitude poorly. If it gets bored and doesn’t get enough exercise, it can become destructive: chewing furniture, howling, and barking continuously.

Is the Griffon Nivernais suitable as a first dog for a novice owner?
No, this breed is not for beginners. Its independent and stubborn character, combined with its high exercise needs, requires experience, patience, and a deep understanding of the psychology of hunting dogs.