Page 165 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

SCENT HOUNDS

Gascon-Saintongeois Blue Gascony Griffon

HEIGHT Petit: 21–24in (54–62cm); Grand: 24–28in (62–72cm) HEIGHT 19–22in (48–57cm)
WEIGHT Petit: 53–55lb (24–25kg); Grand: 66–71lb (30–32kg) WEIGHT 37–40lb (17–18kg)
LIFE SPAN 12–14 years LIFE SPAN 12–13 years

This rare breed, from the Gascony area of France, is also known A cross between the Petit Bleu de Gascogne (below) and
as the Virelade Hound after the Baron de Virelade who crossed wire-coated hounds, this French dog has a coarse, shaggy coat
the Saintongeois with the Grand Bleu de Gascogne (see p.164), that allows it to work in harsh conditions. A comparatively
and the Ariégeois (opposite). It is a high-stamina hunter, with rare breed, it was specifically developed to hunt deer, fox,
a fine-tuned sense of smell. There are two sizes: Petit and Grand. and rabbit. It has stamina rather than great speed and
a remarkably efficient nose.
Occiput (back part of
head) very pronounced Tan markings
White Slate-blue on muzzle
Black patches
cover ears and Black patch
surround eyes

Long, wiry
eyebrows
Traces of
pale tan
on cheek
Coat has
sparse, black
speckling
Long, Coarse,
pendant shaggy coat
GRAND ears

Basset Bleu de Petit Bleu de

Gascogne Gascogne

HEIGHT 12–15in (30–38cm) HEIGHT 20–23in (50–58cm)
WEIGHT 35–44lb (16–20kg) WEIGHT 88–106lb (40–48kg)
LIFE SPAN 10–12 years LIFE SPAN 12 years

In 12th-century France blue hounds of this type were used to hunt Bred down in size from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne (see p.164),
wolves, deer, and boar. The modern breed was established in the the Petit Bleu de Gascogne was developed in France for hunting
20th century. A low-slung dog, it is not fast moving but makes up rabbit but is also used to pursue larger game. With a fine nose
for lack of speed with great determination, tracking quarry for and a musical voice, this hound works well either as
Dark
hours once on the scent. An enthusiastic outdoor companion an individual or in a pack. If kept
chestnut eyes
as well as a fine household pet, this dog takes patience as a companion, it needs a firm
to train and socialize. hand and a lot of exercise.
A mix of black
Short, dense coat and white hairs Well-defined
with clearly defined, gives roan black patch
black saddle appearance Pendant,
Tan spot above low-set
each oval eye ears Long, refined
muzzle

Slate-blue Short
coat
Tan markings
Slate-blue on feet and legs
Strong,
oval feet

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