Dawn Lowery 
Great Gascony Blue
Great Gascony Blue: The Noble French Scenthound
Majestic, Melodious, and Magnificent
The Great Gascony Blue, known in its native France as the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, is one of the most ancient and majestic French scent hounds. With its distinctive blue-mottled coat, noble appearance, and deeply resonant voice, this breed represents centuries of French hunting tradition and aristocratic heritage.
Standing as one of the largest scent hounds in the world, the Great Gascony Blue combines impressive size with remarkable endurance and an exceptional nose. These dogs were originally bred for hunting large game such as wolves, boar, and deer across the rugged terrain of southwestern France. Despite their formidable hunting abilities, they possess a gentle, calm temperament that makes them wonderful companions for the right family.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Great Gascony Blue—from its fascinating medieval origins to its modern-day care requirements and whether this magnificent, melodious breed might be the perfect addition to your life.
Basic Information
The Great Gascony Blue is a giant among scent hounds, known for its distinctive blue-mottled coat, noble bearing, and exceptional hunting abilities. These dogs are built for endurance and excel at tracking game across vast territories.
| Other Names | Grand Bleu de Gascogne, Great Blue of Gascony |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Scenthound (UKC, FCI Group 6) |
| Origin | France (Gascony region) |
| Height | 65-72 cm (25.6-28.3 inches) for males; 62-68 cm (24.4-26.8 inches) for females |
| Weight | 36-42 kg (79-93 pounds) for males; slightly less for females |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Coat | Short, dense, and slightly coarse |
| Colors | Black and white mottled (appearing as slate blue), with black patches and tan points |
| Temperament | Calm, gentle, determined, pack-oriented |
| Energy Level | Medium-High - requires substantial daily exercise |
| Good With | Families, children, other dogs |
Did You Know?
The Great Gascony Blue is considered one of the oldest French scent hound breeds, with origins tracing back to the 14th century. These dogs were favored by French nobility, including King Henry IV of France. The distinctive "blue" coloration isn't actually blue but rather a unique black and white mottling that creates a slate-blue appearance from a distance. This breed's extraordinary voice—deep, resonant, and carrying—was specifically developed to allow hunters to follow the pack's progress over great distances.
History and Origin
The Great Gascony Blue has a rich history that spans centuries, with roots deep in the hunting traditions of southwestern France.
Medieval Origins
The breed's development can be traced to the Gascony region of southwestern France in the Middle Ages. Most canine historians believe the Great Gascony Blue descended from the St. Hubert Hounds bred by monks at the Saint-Hubert Monastery in the Ardennes region. These dogs were brought to Gascony and crossed with local hunting dogs, eventually developing into the distinct breed we know today.
By the 14th century, the Great Gascony Blue had become established as a premier hunting dog for French nobility. Their size, endurance, and exceptional scenting ability made them ideal for hunting wolves, boar, and deer across the challenging terrain of Gascony. The breed's distinctive appearance and hunting style made them highly sought after among aristocratic hunting enthusiasts.
Survival and Preservation
The French Revolution nearly wiped out the Great Gascony Blue, as many aristocratic owners lost their lives and estates. However, the breed survived in more remote areas of Gascony, where it continued to be used by farmers and hunters. In the 19th century, dedicated breeders worked to preserve and standardize the breed. The first breed standard was written in 1919, and the Great Gascony Blue was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1954. While still relatively rare outside France, the breed has maintained its distinctive characteristics and hunting abilities through careful preservation efforts.
Breed Development Timeline
- 14th Century: Early development in Gascony region from St. Hubert Hounds
- Renaissance Period: Favored by French nobility for hunting large game
- French Revolution: Breed nearly wiped out, survives in remote areas
- 19th Century: Revival and standardization by dedicated breeders
- 1919: First official breed standard written
- 1954: Recognized by Fédération Cynologique Internationale
- 1991: Recognized by United Kennel Club
Appearance & Physical Traits
The Great Gascony Blue presents a majestic, noble appearance that reflects its aristocratic heritage and working function.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: Large, robust, and well-proportioned with substantial bone structure
- Head: Noble and elongated with a slightly domed skull and pronounced occiput
- Eyes: Brown, oval-shaped with a gentle, melancholic expression
- Ears: Very long, thin, set low, and twisted elegantly inward
- Nose: Black, well-developed with open nostrils
- Tail: Strong at base, carried gracefully in a sickle shape when active
- Coat: Short, dense, and weather-resistant
Coat and Colors
The Great Gascony Blue has one of the most distinctive coats in the canine world:
- Coat Type: Short, dense, and slightly coarse to the touch
- Texture: Weather-resistant, providing protection in rough terrain
- Base Color: White background with heavy black mottling (appears as slate blue)
- Markings: Two black patches on either side of the head covering ears
- Tan Points: Tan markings above eyes, on cheeks, under ears, and on legs
- Special Markings: Sometimes a small tan spot at the base of the thigh
Size and Proportion
Great Gascony Blues are among the largest scent hounds:
- Height (Male): 65-72 cm (25.6-28.3 inches) at the shoulder
- Height (Female): 62-68 cm (24.4-26.8 inches) at the shoulder
- Weight: 36-42 kg (79-93 pounds) for males; slightly less for females
- Build: Powerful and substantial without being bulky
- Substance: Strong bone structure with well-developed muscles
Temperament & Personality
The Great Gascony Blue combines aristocratic dignity with hunting determination and gentle companionship.
Calm & Gentle
Great Gascony Blues are known for their calm, gentle nature at home. They're affectionate with their family members and maintain an air of noble dignity in all situations.
Pack-Oriented
As a breed developed for pack hunting, these dogs thrive in social settings with other dogs. They're instinctively cooperative and work harmoniously in groups.
Determined & Focused
These are determined hunters with remarkable scenting ability and persistence on the trail. Once they pick up a scent, they pursue it with single-minded dedication.
Melodious Voice
Great Gascony Blues are famous for their deep, resonant, and carrying voice. They use this voice enthusiastically when on the trail or when excited.
Important Temperament Considerations
While Great Gascony Blues are typically calm and gentle companions, their strong hunting instincts mean they may chase small animals, so supervision is necessary around smaller pets. They are vocal dogs with a powerful, carrying voice that they use when excited or on a scent, which may not be suitable for close neighbors. These dogs have substantial exercise requirements that must be met to prevent boredom and potential destructive behaviors. They thrive in environments where they have a job to do or regular opportunities to use their hunting abilities. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults comfortable in various situations.
Temperament Traits
Exercise & Activity Needs
The Great Gascony Blue has substantial exercise requirements that reflect its heritage as an endurance hunter capable of working all day.
Daily Exercise
90-120 Minutes
Substantial daily exercise including long walks, jogging, or hiking. These dogs thrive on opportunities to explore and use their exceptional scenting abilities.
Ideal for active owners with access to open spaces.
Mental Stimulation
Daily
Scent work, tracking games, and puzzle toys provide essential mental exercise. Their exceptional noses need regular opportunities for sniffing and exploring.
Mental stimulation prevents boredom and destructive behaviors.
Activities & Sports
Weekly
Great Gascony Blues excel at hunting trials, tracking, nose work, and coursing sports. These activities channel their natural abilities and strengthen the bond with owners.
Excellent for fulfilling natural instincts in a controlled environment.
Weekly Exercise Schedule
- Daily: 90-120 minutes of walking, jogging, or active play
- Daily: Scent work or tracking games for mental stimulation
- 4-5 times per week: More vigorous activity like running or hiking
- Weekly: Opportunities for off-leash exploration in secure areas
- Ongoing: Access to safe outdoor space for independent exploration
Exercise Considerations
Great Gascony Blues are built for endurance and can work tirelessly throughout the day. Always use a leash or secure fencing when outdoors, as their strong hunting instincts may lead them to follow interesting scents for miles. These dogs have good stamina for various weather conditions thanks to their protective coats, but exercise should be moderated in extreme heat. Puppies require controlled exercise to protect developing joints. Mental stimulation through scent work is particularly important for this breed and can be incorporated into daily walks by allowing time for sniffing and exploration. Their substantial size means they need space to move comfortably.
Diet & Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for the Great Gascony Blue, supporting their large frame, active lifestyle, and overall health.
Puppy Diet
0-18 Months
High-quality puppy food formulated for large/giant breeds, fed 3-4 times daily. Controlled growth is crucial for proper joint development in these substantial dogs.
Puppies need frequent, measured meals for steady growth.
Adult Diet
1.5-7 Years
High-quality adult dog food with balanced protein and controlled calories. Adults typically need 4-6 cups daily, divided into two meals.
Adjust portions based on activity level and metabolism.
Senior Diet
7+ Years
Senior formula with joint support, controlled calories, and adjusted nutrient levels. Monitor weight as activity levels decrease with age.
Seniors may need smaller, more frequent meals.
Nutritional Requirements
- Protein: High-quality sources for muscle maintenance in large, active dogs
- Fat: Moderate levels from quality sources for sustained energy during activity
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health in large breeds
- Omega Fatty Acids: Support skin and coat health
- Portion Control: Important to prevent weight gain and joint stress
Feeding Considerations
Great Gascony Blues can be prone to obesity if overfed and underexercised, which can exacerbate joint problems. Measure food carefully and adjust portions based on activity level. These large, deep-chested dogs are at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), so feed multiple small meals rather than one large meal and avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating. Provide fresh water at all times. Dental health is important, so consider dental chews or teeth brushing. Active and working dogs may need significantly more calories than less active pets. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations based on your dog's age, size, and activity level.
Health & Care
Great Gascony Blues are generally robust, healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10-12 years. Like all large breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of.
Common Health Concerns
| Health Condition | Description | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Developmental condition affecting hip joints, common in large breeds | Genetic screening, weight management, joint supplements, controlled exercise |
| Ear Infections | Common in floppy-eared breeds due to reduced air circulation | Regular cleaning, keeping ears dry, monitoring for signs of infection |
| Bloat (GDV) | Life-threatening stomach twisting, common in deep-chested breeds | Multiple small meals, no vigorous exercise after eating, knowing emergency signs |
| Joint Issues | General wear and tear on joints from size and active lifestyle | Weight management, joint supplements, moderate exercise, comfortable bedding |
Grooming Requirements
The Great Gascony Blue's short, dense coat requires minimal maintenance to keep it healthy and looking its best.
Regular Brushing
1-2 Times Weekly
Brush with a slicker brush or hound glove to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. More frequent brushing during seasonal shedding.
Low-maintenance coat except during shedding seasons.
Bathing & Maintenance
Monthly or As Needed
Bathing as needed with gentle dog shampoo. Regular ear cleaning is crucial for this breed. Nail trimming and dental care should also be routine.
Regular maintenance prevents health issues.
Ear Care
Weekly
Weekly ear cleaning with veterinarian-approved solution. Regular inspection for signs of infection, especially after swimming or bathing.
Essential for preventing infections in floppy-eared breeds.
Preventive Care
- Regular Veterinary Visits: Annual check-ups, more frequently for seniors
- Dental Care: Daily brushing and professional cleanings as needed
- Weight Management: Regular monitoring to prevent joint stress
- Ear Care: Weekly cleaning and inspection to prevent infections
- Parasite Prevention: Regular flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
Training & Behavior
Training a Great Gascony Blue requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their intelligent but independent nature.
Training Approach
- Positive Reinforcement: Use reward-based training with high-value treats, praise, and play
- Consistency: Establish clear rules and expectations from the beginning
- Early Start: Begin training and socialization from 8-10 weeks old
- Patience: Allow extra time for these intelligent dogs to process commands
- Make it Meaningful: Connect training to practical purposes they understand
Socialization Needs
Early and ongoing socialization is crucial for Great Gascony Blues:
- Puppy Classes: Enroll in puppy kindergarten for early socialization
- Various Environments: Expose to different people, places, and situations
- Other Animals: Supervised introductions to other pets with attention to prey drive
- Positive Experiences: Ensure new experiences are positive and not overwhelming
Training Tips
Great Gascony Blues respond best to positive reinforcement methods and can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Their intelligence means they learn quickly but may become bored with repetition. Make training rewarding and engaging to maintain their interest. Their hunting heritage means they have a very strong prey drive, so recall training should be prioritized and practiced regularly in secure areas. Early and ongoing training helps channel their energy and intelligence in positive directions. These dogs generally do much better the closer they are with their owner, and once fully trained, take command well when working. Their independent nature when on a scent means extra patience is needed during training.
Common Behavioral Issues
- Roaming Tendencies: Strong scent drive may lead them to wander if not contained
- Vocalization: May bay or howl, particularly when on a scent or left alone
- Destructiveness: If bored, under-exercised, or left alone for long periods
- Stubbornness: May resist training when stimulated by prey-like scents
- Weight Gain: Prone to obesity if exercise is insufficient
Living Environment
Great Gascony Blues are adaptable dogs that thrive best in environments where their substantial size and exercise needs can be accommodated.
Ideal Home Setup
- Space: Best suited for homes with large, securely fenced yards or rural properties
- Climate: Tolerate various climates thanks to protective coat
- Indoor Access: Should live indoors as part of the family, not as outdoor-only dogs
- Outdoor Space: Secure yard essential for exercise and exploration
Family Compatibility
- Children: Excellent with children when properly socialized, though their size requires supervision
- Other Dogs: Excellent with other dogs due to pack heritage
- Small Pets: Not recommended due to strong hunting instincts
- Active Owners: Ideal for runners, hikers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts
Important Considerations
Great Gascony Blues are hunting dogs with strong instincts, so secure containment is essential. They should never be trusted off-leash in unsecured areas unless they have excellent recall training. Their calm nature at home makes them good house dogs, but their size and energy mean they need ample space. These dogs do not adapt well to apartment living and are not usually kept as companion dogs without adequate exercise opportunities. Their substantial size makes them unsuitable for homes with limited space. They do best in homes where they're treated as companions and given opportunities to use their natural abilities through hunting, tracking, or dog sports.
Best Living Situation
The ideal home for a Great Gascony Blue is with an individual or family who:
- Has an active lifestyle with time for regular vigorous exercise
- Values a calm, gentle companion with strong hunting instincts
- Can provide consistent training and mental stimulation
- Has experience with large breeds or scent hounds
- Has secure outdoor space or commitment to leash walking
Cost & Availability
Great Gascony Blues are relatively rare even in France, with specific considerations regarding cost and availability.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500 - $3,000 | From reputable breeders; show or hunting quality at higher end |
| Adoption Fee | $300 - $600 | From shelters or breed-specific rescues (very rare) |
| Initial Supplies | $500 - $800 | Extra-large crate, bed, bowls, collar, leash, grooming tools |
| Initial Vet Care | $400 - $700 | Exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchip |
| Training Classes | $200 - $500 | Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience |
Annual Costs
- Food: $800 - $1,200 for high-quality dog food for large breeds
- Veterinary Care: $600 - $1,000 for routine care and potential health issues
- Preventive Medications: $300 - $500 for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Training/Activities: $200 - $400 for ongoing classes or activities
- Miscellaneous: $400 - $700 for toys, treats, replacements
Availability
- Breeders: Very limited number of reputable breeders; extensive research required
- Rescues: Rarely available through shelters; breed-specific rescues uncommon
- Popularity: Uncommon even in France; known mainly to hunting enthusiasts
- Geographic Variation: Primarily found in France; may require international travel
- Waiting Period: Often significant wait for puppies from reputable breeders
Similar Breeds
If you're interested in the Great Gascony Blue but want to explore similar breeds, consider these alternatives:
Petit Bleu de Gascogne
Smaller version of the Great Gascony Blue with similar appearance and hunting style. Shares the distinctive blue-mottled coat and gentle temperament.
Basset Bleu de Gascogne
Short-legged version of the Gascony Blue with similar coat and hunting instincts. Shares the distinctive coloration and gentle nature in a smaller package.
English Foxhound
Similar pack-oriented scent hound with high energy and friendly disposition. Shares the Great Gascony Blue's love for running and hunting in groups.
Bloodhound
Another large scent hound with exceptional tracking ability and gentle temperament. Shares the Great Gascony Blue's determination on the trail and calm nature at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Great Gascony Blues can be excellent family dogs for active households that understand their needs. They're known for their calm, gentle temperament at home and are typically very good with children and other dogs. Their pack-oriented nature means they thrive as part of a family unit and enjoy participating in family activities. However, their substantial size and energy levels mean they do best with families who can provide plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. Their size also means they're better suited for families with older children who can handle a large, energetic dog, and supervision is always recommended with young children.
Great Gascony Blues are known for their distinctive, deep, resonant voice which they use enthusiastically when on the trail or when excited. They are not excessive barkers in the home when properly exercised and stimulated, but they will vocalize when they catch an interesting scent or when left alone for long periods. Their voice is powerful and carries over long distances, which was specifically bred into them for hunting purposes. This means they may not be suitable for homes with close neighbors who would be disturbed by their vocalizations. Proper training and adequate exercise can help manage their vocal tendencies.
Great Gascony Blues are intelligent and capable learners, but they can be independent and stubborn, especially when they catch an interesting scent. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods and consistent training. Their hunting heritage means they have a very strong prey drive, which can make recall training challenging. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for this breed to ensure they develop into well-mannered adults. Once trained, they are reliable workers, but their independent nature when on a scent means they may not always be responsive to commands when following a trail. Patience and consistency are key when training this breed.
Great Gascony Blues have substantial exercise needs, requiring 90-120 minutes of vigorous activity daily. This should include opportunities for running in secure areas where they can hit top speed and use their exceptional scenting abilities. They excel at activities that simulate hunting, such as chasing balls or participating in dog sports. Without adequate exercise, they can become bored and potentially develop behavioral issues or obesity. Mental stimulation through scent work and training is equally important for this intelligent breed. Their endurance means they can keep going long after other breeds would tire, so owners need to be prepared to meet their substantial activity requirements.
Great Gascony Blues are not well-suited for apartment living due to their large size and substantial exercise requirements. They do best in homes with secure yards or rural properties where they can exercise freely. While they can adapt to various living situations if their exercise needs are met, their size and energy make them better suited to homes with direct access to outdoor space. They are calm indoors when properly exercised but need room to move and stretch their legs. Their powerful, carrying voice may also be problematic in close living quarters with neighbors.
Great Gascony Blues typically get along very well with other dogs due to their pack heritage. However, their strong hunting instincts mean they may chase smaller pets, including cats, rabbits, or other small animals. Early socialization is important to ensure positive interactions with other animals in the household. Supervision is always recommended when introducing them to smaller pets, and some individuals may never be completely trustworthy around small animals due to their strong prey drive. They generally do well with dogs of similar size and energy level, especially when raised together.
The average lifespan of a Great Gascony Blue is 10-12 years, which is typical for a dog of its size. With proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate nutrition, and adequate exercise, some individuals may live longer. Their generally robust health contributes to their longevity, though like all large breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of, such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and bloat. Regular preventive care and maintaining a healthy weight can help maximize their lifespan and quality of life.
Great Gascony Blues can be challenging for first-time dog owners due to their substantial size, high exercise needs, strong hunting instincts, and potential stubbornness. Their calm temperament at home is appealing, but their requirements for extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation may overwhelm novice owners. First-time owners who are very active, dedicated to training, and have experience with large dogs might succeed, but generally this breed is better suited for experienced dog owners familiar with scent hounds or hunting breeds. The combination of their size, energy, and independent nature makes them a challenging choice for novice owners.
Bottom Line: Is a Great Gascony Blue Right for You?
The Great Gascony Blue is a rare and magnificent breed that offers a unique combination of aristocratic dignity, hunting prowess, and gentle companionship. These French scent hounds carry themselves with a noble bearing that reflects their centuries-old heritage. Their substantial exercise needs, intelligence, and generally good health make them appealing companions for active households with space. However, they're not the right choice for everyone. Their significant size, strong hunting instincts, and need for mental stimulation can be challenging for owners who want a low-maintenance pet. If you're looking for an intelligent, calm companion with a rich history and distinctive appearance, and you appreciate a dog who combines hunting ability with loyalty to family, the Great Gascony Blue might be your perfect match. This ancient breed rewards dedicated owners with years of companionship and the unique privilege of sharing your life with a living piece of French hunting history.
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