All about Great Gascon Saintongeois dog breed

All You Need to Know About the Great Gascon Saintongeois Breed

Great Gascon Saintongeois Weight: Average Size & Healthy WeightThe average weight for an adult Great Gascon Saintongeois is typically between 70-85 pounds.For a healthy weight for Great Gascon Saintongeois, males usually weigh a bit more, ranging from 75-90 pounds, while females are generally between 65-80 pounds. This variation is normal and reflects the breed's impressive and athletic build.

How Tall is a Great Gascon Saintongeois? Average Height & Size

• Males (Dogs): Tend to be at the upper end of the range, often reaching 27.5 to 29.5 inches.
• Females (Bitches): Typically fall within the 25.5 to 28.5 inches range.

Great Gascon Saintongeois Colors: What to ExpectThe Great Gascon Saintongeois breed primarily comes in one officially recognized color combination: white with black markings. These markings are typically found as large patches, with some black ticking often present. The black markings can appear as a "mantle" (a large black area covering the back and sides) or as smaller patches on the head, ears, and body. A distinctive feature is often the presence of tan or fawn points, particularly above the eyes, on the cheeks, and on the inner ears. This white and black with tan points is the standard and only color pattern accepted by major kennel clubs that recognize the breed, such as the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).There are no officially recognized rare coat types or exotic Great Gascon Saintongeois variations such as blue, lilac, merle, chocolate, or solid colors (like solid black or solid white) in this breed. Any dog exhibiting these colors would not be considered a purebred Great Gascon Saintongeois by breed standards and may indicate mixed parentage. When looking for AKC recognized Great Gascon Saintongeois colors, it's important to remember that the AKC does not currently recognize the Great Gascon Saintongeois as a breed. However, other international organizations adhere to the described white and black with tan points standard. Potential adopters or buyers should be wary of breeders marketing "rare" or "exotic" colored Great Gascon Saintongeois as these are not genuine breed characteristics.

The Great Gascon Saintongeois boasts a generally gentle and affectionate temperament. This breed is known for its loyalty and forms strong bonds with its family, making it an excellent companion. They are typically sociable and enjoy being part of family activities. While intelligent and eager to please, the Great Gascon Saintongeois personality can also be described as independent, a trait common in scent hounds.Regarding specific traits:* Friendliness: They are generally friendly with people they know and can be reserved but not aggressive with strangers.* Loyalty: Exceptional loyalty to their family is a hallmark of the breed.* Sociability: Highly social and thrives on companionship; they do not do well with prolonged isolation.* Adaptability to Apartment Living: Due to their size and need for regular exercise and mental stimulation, the Great Gascon Saintongeois is generally not well-suited for apartment living. They thrive in homes with ample outdoor space.* Behavior with Children: With proper socialization and training, they can be wonderful companions for older, respectful children. Their large size means supervision is always advised with very young children.* Behavior with Other Pets: They can get along well with other dogs, especially if raised together. Due to their strong prey drive as a scent hound, careful introductions and supervision are necessary with smaller pets like cats or rodents. The temperament of Great Gascon Saintongeois with other pets is largely influenced by early socialization.

The Great Gascon Saintongeois temperament is generally described as calm, gentle, and affectionate, making them wonderful companion dogs. They are friendly and sociable, typically greeting strangers with a reserved but not aggressive demeanor. Their loyalty to their family is profound, forming strong bonds.Regarding adaptability to apartment living, this breed is not ideal. Their substantial size and need for considerable outdoor exercise mean they thrive best in homes with a large yard or access to open spaces.Their behavior with children is typically very good; their gentle nature makes them patient and tolerant, though supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children. They generally get along well with other pets, especially if socialized from a young age, often displaying the pack mentality common to hounds.While intelligent, they can exhibit a degree of stubbornness, a common hound trait, which requires consistent and patient training. They are not overly sensitive but respond best to positive reinforcement methods. Overall, their personality traits lean towards being amiable and devoted, suitable for active families seeking a large, loving canine companion.

Great Gascon Saintongeois Care & Daily MaintenanceCaring for a Great Gascon Saintongeois involves several key considerations to ensure a healthy and happy life. This low-energy dog breed requires moderate exercise, typically satisfied with a daily walk and some playtime. Over-exercising should be avoided due to their substantial build.Grooming Needs: Their short, dense coat is relatively low-maintenance. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or a shedding blade will help remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy. Regular nail trims are essential to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.Dietary Considerations: How to care for a Great Gascon Saintongeois nutritionally involves a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for large breeds. Portion control is crucial to prevent obesity, a common issue in this breed. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations and to establish a feeding schedule.Wrinkle & Ear Cleaning: The Great Gascon Saintongeois typically does not have significant facial wrinkles. However, their long, pendulous ears require regular cleaning (at least weekly) to prevent ear infections. Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner and cotton balls, avoiding cotton swabs deep in the ear canal.Climate Sensitivity: Due to their lack of brachycephalic anatomy, the Great Gascon Saintongeois is generally not as sensitive to heat as true brachycephalic breeds. However, like all dogs, they should be protected from extreme temperatures. Provide ample shade and fresh water in warm weather and ensure they have a warm, dry place to rest in colder climates.Common Health Concerns & Health Tips for Great Gascon Saintongeois: Keep an eye out for skin issues such as allergies or hot spots, often exacerbated by moisture in their ears or folds (if any develop). Regular dental care including daily brushing or dental chews is vital to prevent periodontal disease. Weight management is paramount to avoid joint problems and other health complications. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and prevention of health issues.

Great Gascon Saintongeois Activity Level: The Great Gascon Saintongeois has a moderate activity level, balancing bursts of energy with significant periods of rest. They are not a high-energy breed like some other hounds. Daily exercise needs include a good, brisk walk (30-60 minutes) or the opportunity to roam and explore in a securely fenced yard. They enjoy sniffing and trailing games, which engage their natural hunting instincts and provide mental stimulation. While they appreciate playtime with their family, they are generally not demanding of constant high-intensity play. Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy, Great Gascon Saintongeois are sensitive to heat and strenuous exercise, especially in warm weather. Overheating is a serious concern, so exercise should be limited during hot parts of the day. They are suitable for active families who enjoy regular walks and outdoor activities, but also for low-energy households that can provide consistent, moderate exercise without expecting a dog to be a jogging partner. Understanding how active are Great Gascon Saintongeois is crucial for potential owners to ensure a good match.

I would rate the "Size" trait of the Great Gascon Saintongeois a 9. This breed is undeniably large, characterized by a substantial build, considerable height, and a weighty presence. Males typically stand between 65 and 72 cm (25.5-28.5 inches) at the shoulder and can weigh anywhere from 30 to 38 kg (66-84 lbs), with females being slightly smaller but still very substantial. Their body structure is robust and athletic, built for endurance and power rather than compactness. When compared to the vast majority of companion dogs, the Great Gascon Saintongeois is among the largest, easily dwarfing breeds like Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, or even most Retrievers.Given this considerable size, the Great Gascon Saintongeois is not at all suited for apartment living or households with significant space constraints. Their sheer physical dimensions require ample room to move, stretch, and simply exist comfortably without constantly bumping into furniture or occupants. Travel, especially by air, would be challenging and expensive, often requiring specialized crates and cargo hold travel due to their size. They are best suited for homes with large yards, rural properties, or environments where they have plenty of outdoor space to roam and expend their considerable energy.

I would rate the grooming requirements of the Great Gascon Saintongeois as a 3 out of 10.This breed is notably low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, dense coat sheds moderately, requiring only weekly brushing to remove loose hair and keep it healthy. They don't have extensive skin folds that demand specialized care, and their ears, while needing regular checks for cleanliness to prevent infections common in drop-eared breeds, aren't exceptionally prone to problems. Nail trimming is standard for all dogs and should be done as needed, typically every few weeks. Bathing is only required when they are visibly dirty, perhaps a few times a year, as over-bathing can strip their natural oils. They are not particularly susceptible to skin issues or allergies more so than other breeds. Compared to many companion dogs, especially those with long, thick, or curly coats, the Great Gascon Saintongeois is remarkably easy to care for, requiring minimal time and effort for their grooming needs.

I'd rate the Exercise Requirements of the Great Gascon Saintongeois a 7 out of 10.This breed, being a large Scenthound, possesses a significant amount of energy and a strong drive to work. While not hyperactive in the way some working breeds might be, they are built for endurance and require consistent, substantial exercise to stay healthy and mentally stimulated. Daily activity recommendations would lean towards long walks, hikes, or jogging, ideally for an hour or more, with opportunities for off-leash exploration in a safe, fenced area. Their energy levels are high, and they have excellent tolerance for sustained movement, a testament to their hunting heritage. They are not brachycephalic, so respiratory limitations are not a concern, allowing them to engage in prolonged physical activity without undue stress. They thrive with structured routines that include not just physical exertion but also mental challenges, such as scent work or obedience training. While they appreciate downtime, simply being a couch potato is not in their nature; a Great Gascon Saintongeois that doesn't receive adequate exercise will likely become bored, restless, and potentially destructive. They are well-suited for activities like long walks, playtime, and certainly excel at any form of scent work, but agility might be a bit much for their large, deliberate frame, though individual dogs might enjoy it. They definitely require structured routines to stay healthy and mentally stimulated, rather than thriving with minimal activity.

The Great Gascon Saintongeois, while possessing a deep and resonant bark characteristic of many hounds, is generally not renowned for its watchdog prowess. Their primary drive is scent, and their temperament is typically amicable and less overtly territorial than breeds specifically developed for guarding. They are alert to unusual sounds and certainly capable of barking to signal something amiss, but their instinct isn't usually to confront or deter in the manner of a true guardian breed. Their response to unfamiliar people is more often one of curiosity or indifference rather than suspicion, and their desire to engage with a perceived threat is low. They are more likely to offer a loud early warning than to actively prevent an intrusion. Therefore, the Great Gascon Saintongeois rates a 4 out of 10 for watchdog ability. They are capable of providing meaningful early warnings through their barking, but they are far more of a passive companion than a vigilant deterrent against intruders.

I would rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Great Gascon Saintongeois a 9 out of 10.This breed, a scent hound through and through, was developed to hunt in packs. This inherent pack mentality translates to a strong natural inclination towards positive social interactions with other dogs. They generally display excellent temperament around unfamiliar dogs, often exhibiting a friendly curiosity rather than aggression or fear. Their gentle nature and generally moderate energy levels (when not actively hunting) make them quite adaptable to dogs of various sizes and energy levels, though they certainly appreciate a good romp with a canine companion. While, like any breed, early and consistent socialization is beneficial to reinforce their naturally sociable tendencies, they typically thrive in multi-dog households and genuinely enjoy canine company. Dominance displays are rare and usually mild, and genuine aggression towards other dogs is highly atypical for the breed. They are a breed that truly flourishes when part of a pack, be it human or canine.

The Great Gascon Saintongeois, an elegant scent hound, typically exhibits an energetic trait rating of 7 out of 10.This breed is naturally active and possesses a good amount of stamina, consistent with its hunting heritage. They are not as hyperactive as some terrier breeds, but they are far from laid-back "couch potato" dogs. Great Gascon Saintongeois enjoy long walks, runs, and the opportunity to follow a scent, which keeps them engaged and physically stimulated. Their playfulness is moderate; they enjoy a good romp but aren't typically incessantly demanding attention through play. They have good endurance for prolonged outdoor activities, particularly those involving tracking or exploring.It's important to note that the Great Gascon Saintongeois is not a brachycephalic breed. It has a long, noble head, which is typical of most scent hounds. This dolichocephalic (long-nosed) anatomy means they do not face the respiratory challenges that brachycephalic breeds might encounter, allowing them excellent exercise tolerance and the ability to participate in vigorous outdoor activities without being easily winded or overheating. Their need for physical stimulation is significant; without adequate exercise, they can become restless or develop undesirable behaviors.

I would rate the training requirements of the Great Gascon Saintongeois breed as a 7 out of 10.While intelligent and capable of learning, the Great Gascon Saintongeois is a traditional scent hound, meaning they possess a strong independent streak and are easily driven by their noses. Their primary focus is often on the scent trail, making consistent attention and responsiveness to commands a challenge, especially in stimulating environments. They can exhibit stubbornness when their instincts pull them in a different direction than your commands.Training requires a significant amount of patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of hound behavior. While positive reinforcement is effective and essential, it needs to be delivered with high-value rewards and in a way that can compete with the allure of a captivating scent. Their attention span can be short for repetitive, non-instinctual tasks. This breed is not beginner-friendly and definitely requires experienced handling and structured, consistent routines from an early age. Owners need to be prepared to dedicate substantial time to socialization, obedience, and potentially even specialized scent work to channel their natural drives constructively.

Rating the "Playful" trait of the Great Gascon Saintongeois breed, I'd give it a 6 out of 10.While not as intensely energetic and constantly seeking interaction as some smaller, more traditionally companion-focused breeds, the Great Gascon Saintongeois is far from a couch potato. They possess a moderate activity level, enjoying long walks and the opportunity to stretch their legs and explore with their excellent nose. Their love for games and interaction is present, particularly with their family, though it might manifest as a more mature, engaged play rather than a frenetic, puppy-like exuberance. They do appreciate a good game of fetch or a tug-of-war, and will respond positively to toys and playtime, especially if it involves using their natural hunting instincts in a controlled environment.Their attention-seeking behavior is generally not overbearing; they are affectionate and enjoy being near their people, but they are also capable of independent relaxation. Overall enthusiasm in daily life is consistent – they are happy to be involved and enjoy their routines. Compared to other companion dogs, they are more laid-back than a Border Collie or a Jack Russell, but certainly more spirited and engaged than a Basset Hound or a Great Pyrenees. They have a dignified yet warm personality, and their playfulness often surfaces in a charmingly earnest and engaging manner, rather than an overwhelming, constant demand for entertainment.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Great Gascon Saintongeois a 6 out of 10.While the Great Gascon Saintongeois is undoubtedly loyal and forms strong bonds with its family, they are more independent than many other companion breeds. Bred primarily as working pack hounds, their affection tends to manifest as a calm, devoted presence rather than an intense need for constant physical closeness or lap-sitting. They are sensitive to their owner's emotions and will certainly enjoy a good scratch and quiet companionship, often following family members around the house out of a desire to be near their "pack." However, they are not typically described as "cuddly" in the same way a Golden Retriever or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might be. They thrive on affection in the form of consistent positive interaction, a sense of belonging, and being included in family activities, but they are content with a bit more personal space than some more overtly affectionate breeds. They appreciate their humans but also value their own quiet dignity and the opportunity to stretch out on their own.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Great Gascon Saintongeois a 7 out of 10.The Great Gascon Saintongeois is generally a sociable and pack-oriented breed, which typically translates well to living with other dogs. They were bred to hunt in large groups, fostering an inherent tolerance and even enjoyment of canine companionship. However, their strong hound instincts and high prey drive are significant factors when considering other species, particularly cats and smaller animals. While not inherently aggressive, their natural inclination to chase can be a challenge. With proper socialization from a young age, many Great Gascon Saintongeois can learn to coexist peacefully with cats, but it often requires consistent training and supervision to manage their prey drive. Resource guarding is not a prominent characteristic of the breed, especially with other dogs, but like any breed, individual temperaments can vary. They are adaptable to multi-pet households, provided their owner understands and addresses their hunting instincts with appropriate management and training. They are not naturally entirely "cat-friendly" in the way some breeds are, but their overall gentle and sociable nature means that with effort, peaceful coexistence is often achievable.

The Great Gascon Saintongeois scores a 7 out of 10 for "Good with Children." While generally calm and possessing a patient demeanor, these dogs are primarily bred for hunting and have a strong prey drive. They are typically good-natured and can be quite affectionate with their families, but their large size and boisterousness, especially during their younger years, mean they might inadvertently knock over smaller children during play. They are generally tolerant of noise and handling from respectful children, but their deep hunting instincts mean they are not inherently playful in the way many retriever breeds are with kids, preferring a more sedate interaction. They are not naturally gentle to the extent of a Golden Retriever or Labrador, and their sheer power requires supervision around very young children. With proper training, early socialization, and consistent guidance from both owners and children on appropriate interactions, they can be a loving and protective companion for families, but they are not a "plug-and-play" option for those seeking an exceptionally child-friendly dog without effort.

Rating the "Good with Strangers" trait for the Great Gascon Saintongeois: 7/10The Great Gascon Saintongeois generally rates a 7 out of 10 for being good with strangers. They are not typically a highly reserved or unfriendly breed, but rather tend to be calm and observant around unfamiliar adults. While not universally exuberant like some retriever breeds, their inherent nature is one of gentle tolerance and eventual acceptance, rather than immediate suspicion or aggression. They are generally not prone to excessive barking or aggressive guarding behavior solely due to the presence of a stranger, unless they perceive a genuine threat to their family or territory. With proper early socialization, which is crucial for any breed, they adapt well to public and guest-filled environments, maintaining their composure and showing a respectful curiosity. They are not naturally outgoing to the extent of demanding attention from every passerby, but they are also not shy. While training is always beneficial to reinforce good manners, a well-socialized Great Gascon Saintongeois is naturally inclined to be comfortable, if not overly effusive, with strangers. They will often politely acknowledge a new person and, once they sense no threat, will readily accept their presence and even enjoy a gentle pat.

I would rate the Great Gascon Saintongeois' "Winter" tolerance at a solid 6. While not extremely sensitive, they are also not built for extreme cold. Their short, dense coats offer some protection, but lack the thickness or undercoat of breeds designed for severe winter. Their large, lean bodies mean they have less body fat insulation compared to more heavily-built breeds. As a large breed, they have a good surface-area-to-volume ratio which helps retain some heat, but their non-brachycephalic anatomy isn't particularly prone to respiratory issues in cold, dry air.However, they are still a scent hound, originally from a region with milder winters than many northern climates. The risk of hypothermia becomes significant with prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures, especially if they are inactive or wet. While they can certainly enjoy outdoor activities in moderately cold climates, they will require special care during winter months compared to other companion dogs, particularly those with thicker coats. This might include a warm dog coat for extended outdoor time, ensuring they have a warm, draft-free indoor resting place, and limiting the duration of their outdoor excursions on very cold or windy days. They are not a breed that can simply be left outside for long periods in freezing temperatures without concern.

I would rate the "Summer" tolerance of the Great Gascon Saintongeois a 6.While not possessing brachycephalic anatomy which is a major advantage for heat tolerance, the Great Gascon Saintongeois is a large, deep-chested hound with a relatively dense, short coat. Their working origins as scent hounds mean they were bred for endurance, often in varied climates, but not necessarily extreme heat. They can regulate body temperature reasonably well through panting, but their size means they generate more internal heat during activity and have a larger volume to cool down. This makes them susceptible to heatstroke if overexerted or exposed to high temperatures without reprieve.Compared to other companion dogs, they don't require the extreme vigilance of a bulldog or pug, but their size and activity level do necessitate more careful management than a small, low-energy breed. They definitely require special care in summer months, including restricted outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, access to shade and fresh water at all times, and vigilance for signs of overheating. While not requiring constant air conditioning, access to a cool indoor environment during peak heat is essential to prevent heat-related illness.

I'd rate the Great Gascon Saintongeois's "Healthiness" trait at a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects that the breed is generally robust and possesses a decent life expectancy for a large dog, often living 10-12 years or more with proper care. As a working scent hound, they have been bred for endurance and a sound physical structure, which inherently reduces the prevalence of some of the more debilitating genetic conditions seen in breeds selected primarily for exaggerated aesthetic traits. They are not typically known for the extreme breathing difficulties associated with brachycephalic breeds or the widespread severe joint issues that can plague some giant breeds. Responsible breeding practices within the scent hound community often prioritize working ability and health.However, a 7 acknowledges that no large breed is entirely free from potential health concerns. Like many deep-chested breeds, they can be predisposed to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening condition. Hip and elbow dysplasia, while not as prevalent as in some other large breeds, can still occur. Ear infections can also be an issue due to their long, pendulous ears, requiring regular cleaning. Compared to many companion dogs, they are generally robust and not considered high-maintenance from a purely health perspective, but their large size and active nature do necessitate a commitment to proper nutrition, exercise, and vigilance for common large breed ailments. They are far from fragile, but not entirely without potential health considerations.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the Great Gascon Saintongeois breed a 6 out of 10.While the Great Gascon Saintongeois possesses a good level of alertness and will certainly make their presence known with a deep, resonant bark if something is amiss, they are not inherently a guard dog breed in the aggressive, highly territorial sense. Their protective instincts are more rooted in their loyalty to their family and their general awareness of their surroundings. They are large and imposing, which can be a deterrent in itself, and they will likely be wary of strangers until introduced. However, their primary role throughout their history has been as a hunting dog, requiring a certain level of independence and a focus on game rather than constant vigilance over property and people. They are generally good-natured and, with proper socialization, are more likely to accept friendly strangers than to display true aggression. They would be more capable of acting as an excellent watchdog, alerting you to potential threats, than as a truly formidable guard dog that would engage in a serious physical confrontation. They are definitely more of a companion dog with a strong voice and a watchful eye, rather than a breed bred for the specific purpose of offering meaningful, physical protection in a household setting against determined intruders.

The Great Gascon Saintongeois breed receives a rating of 7 for its "Life Span" trait.This breed is generally considered to have an average to slightly above-average lifespan compared to many other large companion dog breeds. Their typical life expectancy falls within the range of 10 to 12 years, and some individuals can live longer with excellent care. They are known for being a relatively robust and healthy breed, with fewer widespread genetic predispositions to debilitating conditions compared to some more intensely bred dogs. While, like all large breeds, they can be susceptible to issues such as bloat and hip/elbow dysplasia, these are not overwhelmingly prevalent to the point of significantly shortening their average lifespan. Responsible breeding practices, focusing on health clearances and genetic diversity, further contribute to their longevity. Their active, outdoor lifestyle also promotes good physical condition, which positively impacts their overall health and lifespan. They are not considered exceptionally long-lived, nor are they particularly short-lived; they occupy a solid middle ground with the potential for a good, full life.