Grand Bleu De Gascogne
Description
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a historic French scenthound, tracing back to the 14th century in Gascony. It descends from the St. Hubert Hound, famed for tracking large game like deer and boar. This breed’s mottled black and white coat creates a distinctive blue effect, often accented by black patches, tan markings, and a white blaze on the head. Weighing between 70 and 77 pounds, it carries a calm, gentle demeanor that suits family life well. Though bred for endurance and scenting, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne can get distracted by strong smells and may not always obey commands when tracking. It thrives in homes with other dogs but can show dominance occasionally. Its bark is loud and frequent, a trait that once helped hunters track their dogs over long distances. This breed needs consistent mental and physical engagement to stay balanced and content.
Grooming
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne sports a short, smooth coat that sheds lightly to moderately. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush keeps the coat healthy and removes loose hair efficiently. Bathing every 4 to 8 weeks is sufficient; avoid over-bathing to protect natural oils. Regular nail trims every 2 to 4 weeks prevent discomfort, while monthly ear checks help avoid buildup or irritation. Their coat colors—mottled black and white, black and blue, or black and white with tan markings—don’t require special stain care but do benefit from routine cleaning around the white blaze on the head to keep it bright. Pro tip: Use a damp cloth to spot-clean the face between baths, especially around the eyes and muzzle. • Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush • Bathe every 4–8 weeks • Trim nails every 2–4 weeks • Check ears monthly • Spot-clean white blaze as needed
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Plan for two daily walks totaling about 80 minutes to meet the Grand Bleu de Gascogne’s moderate exercise needs. Break this into one 45-minute session and one 35-minute session to keep your dog engaged without overexertion. These walks should include opportunities for scent exploration, as the breed’s tracking instincts are strong and provide mental stimulation. Example routine: Morning: 45-minute walk with varied terrain for sniffing and light jogging. Evening: 35-minute stroll focusing on calm leash walking and socialization. This split helps manage their natural curiosity and reduces excessive barking triggered by boredom or pent-up energy. Incorporate scent games or short training drills during walks to enrich their experience and maintain focus.
Boarding
When boarding a Grand Bleu de Gascogne, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate its 70–77 pound frame comfortably. This breed enjoys interactive play, so plan for two active play sessions daily, combined with scent and brain games to keep its mind sharp. Staff should be aware of the dog’s tendency to bark frequently and prepare to manage this with consistent routines and calming techniques. Due to their pack background, they benefit from supervised socialization with other dogs but may assert dominance, so careful introductions are key. Enrichment should include scent trails and puzzle toys to mimic their hunting instincts. A quiet, structured environment helps reduce stress and encourages relaxation during boarding stays. Bottom line: Provide ample mental challenges and space to keep this scent-driven breed happy and calm while away from home.