Description: Grand Bleu De Gascogne
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne, also known as the Great Blue Gascony Hound, is an ancient breed originating from the Gascony region of France. Distinguished by its aristocratic and imposing appearance, this breed is particularly noted for its striking blue mottled coat and black patches. Standing tall and exuding an air of noble demeanor, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is primarily used for hunting, especially for tracking game like deer and wild boar due to its strong sense of smell and deep, melodious bark. This breed is laid-back and affectionate with family, though somewhat reserved with strangers. They are considered patient and gentle, making them fairly good companions in homes with children.
Grand Bleu De Gascogne ratings
Properties
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a distinguished member of the scenthound family, hailing from the Gascony region of France. Known for its distinct appearance and deep, melodious bark, the breed has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Originally used for hunting large game like wolves and boars, today this breed is more commonly used to hunt hares and deer and is also appreciated as a loyal and noble companion.
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne stands out with its impressive size and striking coat. Typically, they reach up to 65-72 cm (25-28 inches) in height and can weigh between 36-40 kg (80-88 pounds). They possess a noble and elongated head, long drooping ears, and soulful eyes, creating an expressive and solemn appearance. Their coat is short but thick, predominantly white with black patches and sometimes speckles, which overall gives it a blueish tint. One of the notable features of this breed is the 'mantle' or large black blanket that often covers their back.
As hunters, they are unparalleled in their persistence and stamina. The Grand Bleu de Gascogne has a powerful nose, renowned for its ability to track scents over long distances and challenging terrains. Their deep and sonorous bark serves as a beacon to hunters, helping them locate the hound and quarry during hunts. Despite their prowess in the field, they are also known for their calm and gentle disposition when at home.
Socialization and training should start early for the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, as they can be somewhat independent and stubborn. They respond best to patient, consistent training methods. Due to their origins as pack animals, they generally get along very well with other dogs and can benefit from having canine companions. However, their strong hunting instincts can pose a challenge for households with other small pets.
Living with a Grand Bleu de Gascogne requires commitment. They need ample space to roam and exercise; a small living environment is not suitable for this large and energetic breed. Regular, vigorous exercise is essential to keep them healthy and balanced. Prospective owners should also be prepared for vocalizations; their deep barks can carry and may not be appreciated by close neighbors. This breed thrives with an active family that understands and respects their heritage and physical needs.
Overall, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a majestic, capable breed, perfect for those who appreciate a dog with resilience, poise, and a rich history.
Appearance
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne, a noble and ancient breed originating from France, is most renowned for its striking and dignified appearance. Standing at an average height of 65 to 72 centimeters for males and 62 to 68 centimeters for females, this breed showcases a powerful, yet elegantly constructed physique that hints at its endurance and vigor.
Characteristically, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne displays a distinct coat pattern. The coat is predominantly white with black patches, featuring a mottled black to white ratio that creates a blue effect, from which the breed derives its name. This coat is short, dense, and lies flat against the body, providing not just beauty but practicality, blocking pests and brambles during wooded hunts. Over this coat, the Grand Bleu may exhibit either large black spots or a black saddle, and the ears are typically adorned with black patches.
The head of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is one of its most expressive features. It is long and noble, with a slightly convex skull. The muzzle is long, encouraging a strong sense of smell, which is essential for a scent hound. The ears are remarkably pendulous, set low and can extend to the end of the nose when drawn forward, enhancing their tracking ability by funneling scents from the ground up towards the nose. Their melancholic dark brown eyes give them a soulful, wise expression, deeply enhancing their dignified appearance.
The breed’s body reflects its strength and stamina, with a well-formed back and a slightly arched loin, contributing to its agility. The tail, known for its 'sabre' shape, is usually carried up and in a curve, aligning with the elegant and flowing lines of their overall form. The legs of the Grand Bleu are muscular and strong, equipped with compact feet, which are essential for its role as a resilient hunting dog capable of navigating challenging terrains.
In summary, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is not only a functional and hardy breed but also a graceful and impressively built animal, embodying a unique blend of ruggedness and aristocratic elegance. Its appearance not only complements its hunting capabilities but also makes it a distinctive and highly esteemed member of the hound group.
History
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a breed of dog that has a rich history deeply rooted in the region of Gascony in Southwest France. This majestic hound, also known simply as the Grand Bleu, can trace its lineage back to the medieval period, and it is one of the oldest scent hounds in existence. The breed's history is intertwined with the culture and traditions of French hunting, making it a significant part of the country's canine heritage.
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne's ancestors were likely used for hunting during the reigns of the early French monarchs. This breed was particularly famed for its ability to hunt wolves and boar, and it was highly esteemed by nobility for its hunting prowess and striking appearance. Over centuries, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne was refined and developed to excel in both scenting and stamina, characteristics that enabled it to track game over long distances through rugged terrain.
The breed's name itself is a nod to its deep connection with the Gascony region, and 'bleu' refers to its unique coat color, a mottled blue that in many ways defines its appearance. The breed was widely recognized and valued for its contribution to large game hunts and became a symbol of status among French nobility. The hounds were often featured in paintings and literature during the Renaissance period, highlighting their importance in French culture and society.
During the rise of industrialization and changes in social structure, many traditional hunting practices diminished, and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne faced periods of decline. By the 20th century, the breed was in danger of extinction due to the reduced need for large game hunting dogs and the devastation of world wars across Europe. However, breed enthusiasts and French cynologists stepped in to save the Grand Bleu from disappearing. They established breed clubs and worked diligently to preserve its lineage and promote its unique qualities.
Today, while still rare outside of France, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne has a loyal following and is revered by hunting and hound enthusiasts around the world. It is recognized by various kennel clubs and remains a proud symbol of its French heritage. The breed is celebrated for its noble demeanor, melodious bay, and excellent tracking skills, continuing to be a favored choice for those appreciative of traditional hunting hounds.