Ελληνικα Γκριφον & Γκριφον Κανις
- Thread starter FAINOMENON
- Ημερομηνία δημιουργίας
παραθετω και το αγγλικο κειμενο του Λεκκα γιατι ειναι πιο λεπτομερες απο το ελληνικο και στελνω και στη μοντ φωτος για εικονογραφηση
Greek/Hellenic Griffon and Griffon Caniche*
*Improvised terms describing two semi-cultivated and widespread strains of Greek dogs. An outline of populations largely kept in urban areas as pets. Both types are highly recognizable, but not officially aknowledged..
The Greek Griffon has a straight or slightly wavy, long, harsh or wire coat. It is akin to the great European/Eurasian long coated dog family such as Catalan, Siera de Aires sheepdogs, Barbado, Carea Castellano, Berger des Pyreness,Sardinian Fonni, Briard, Schapendoes, Polish Lowland, Bearded Colllie, Schapudel, Tibetan Terrier, Tibetan Kyi Apso, Korean Sapsaree, several obscure Balkan forms, including the Italian Cane Palleiro. The Griffon type was recently reported from various Black Sea areas, Anatolia, and south of Caspian Sea.The Egyptian Ermenti/Armant, dogs in Ethiopia/Eritrea highlands and certain strains in the Cameroons also belong to the wider "Griffon" family. Coats are double. A harsh outer coat and softer under coat. Colour range is essentially limitless including fawn with darker ears and muzzle, black,white, black/tan,black/cream,black/silver, grizzle/tan, blue/tan, gray, liver, black/white, fawn/white, liver/white. Griffons occur in roughly three sizes ; large, medium and small, ranging from 30-60cm but probably exceeding both upper and lower limits. Medium is most common. Small are less numerous. Large is rarest. Body frames are of a rectangular outline. Heads tend to be carried at a level with back when on the move. Tails are saber. This is the most widespread, recognized and dominant wire coated type.
Griffon Sub-types
A. Among small sizes, an often seen, short legged subtype manifests a tendency towards bassetism. Further research is needed to establish its identity. Found in both urban and rural areas where foreign pure breeds are unknown. One potential confirmed source of this form, is the north west Peloponnese region of Andravida, where an old, native nucleus of such dogs, have recently been located in a rural area. Similar dogs have been reported as formerly common in the Ionian isles.
B. A second subtype, identified by a British Lowchen breeder while holidaying in several Greek islands, resembles a larger Lowchen. An autochtonous type and not foreign import(s) as the British expert was surprised to find out. Bichon types were known in ancient Greece and are still widely believed to have had their source in the East Mediterranean. Little known, possibly confused with Griffons or even crossed with them.
C. A hairy, short legged type with large head and feet turned out somewhat resembling a Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Mainly rural north west Greece but possibly extending to eastern most parts. Differences to A and B need to be established through deeper research.
D. A striclty working strain, from central/east Greece possibly extending into the north west mountain regions. Known as "Moustakato" translating as "Bearded". It continues to be known as a herding and hunting dog, lacking protection instinct; also a little researched old type. It conformation is currently inconclusive. It may be that of a wire coated mountain flock guardian or a modified slightly lighter type. A certain source has carried out the first research and obtained photos.
E. Wire coated, generic, terrier phenotypes exist and occasionally confused with Griffon proper; but in fact form a distinct group. Slightly wavy coated Griffons may resemble Dutch Smoushonden or Weaten Terriers, but otherwise remain typical of the Griffon strain. "Griffon Terriers" consist of highly variable phenotypes.
Distribution of Griffon
It is found throughout the Greek mainland, islands, urban and rural areas. Its presence in isolated villages, where similar foreign purebreds have never been imported, is especially important.
The Greek Griffon Caniche. Also known as Caniche-Griffon, but more rarely. A type with close links to the water dog family. Generally perceived as transitonal forms between water and herding dogs, or as derivatives of water dogs, especially Poodles. The most typical "Hellenic" Griffon-Caniche are easily mistaken for Portuguese Water Dogs, Barbets or early European water dogs. Coats are medium to long, loosely curled or very wavy, softer and woolier than Griffons and mostly double. Some especially curled coats are very water dog like. Colour range is broader than most modern pure bred water dogs and includes, white, black, liver, fawn, cream, gray/blue, black/tan, black/tan/white, black with white trim-an early water dog colour-, white with black,gray,blue,brown,liver or fawn patches. Other colours are possible. Three sizes of Griffon-Caniche are known, ranging from 30-60cm. Large, medium, small. Medium is most numerous. Small is less common. Large is rarest. Body outlines are more rectangular compared to Poodles. Some of the small size may be especially short legged and appear with increasing frequency. Griffon-Caniche heads are more square and muzzles thicker set than in Poodles. Tails are saber or hanging low in repause, but may be carried somewhat curled over the back when alert. "Greek Water Dog"-"Hellenikos Skylos tou Nerou", is potentially a more appropriate name but unlikely to be adopted. Waterdogs as a group are, currently, little acknowledged in Greece.
Griffon-Caniche sub-types
A. A certain number are white with fawn or orange ears and fairly curled coats. This is an old Bichon colour also seen in Lagotto Romagnolo, Cyprus "Poodles/Bichons" and obscure south American bichons from Ecuador. Probably confused with and bred to "mainstream" Griffon-Caniche. Further research is needed to establish its identity and lineage. Also occurring in various sizes. Mostly medium and more rarely small. The existence of this type and occassional curled tails point to limited Bichon influence in the Griffon-Caniche gene pool. It may merely merit the status of a distinctive colour variation.
B.Another type with transitional Griffon-Griffon/Caniche characteristics has a staighter, soft coat. Mostly white. Size is in the upper ranges of small. It can be likened to a much larger, thicker set Maltese. A type probably closer to the '"extinct" or longer reported Bichon of Manilla/Philippines with no direct genetic link.
(The omnipresence of Greek merchant navy results in frequent unofficial importations of unlikely animal forms. This source cannot be entirely ruled out, but neither can it be attributed as the source of unclassifiable domestic dogs in modern Greece).
Geographical Distribution of Water Dogs in the Mediterranean Region
Griffon-Caniche are found throughout the mainland and islands of modern Greek territory in urban areas and small communities. Recent reports of minor strains, of herding/waterdogs in isolated rural areas confirm their deep native roots. Historically, water dogs were linked with the Greek islands and ancient Greek navigation, but were reported from mainland regions also. Similar water dog types are, presently, "rumoured" from coastal areas of western Turkey as working herding dogs. Coastal areas of Turkey/Asia Minor were inhabited by Greeks from 800 BC to 1920s AD. Modern Turkish water/herding dogs must be directly linked to those known and employed by Greeks for 2300 years, preceding the Turks' arrival in 1450s AD. To a great extent, all water dogs in Mediterranean coastal regions must be related. Gene pools have been disseminated largely via the sea routes trade. This pertains especially to southern Spanish Water Dogs/Turcos Andaluzes**, largely perceived as introduced via Turkish vessels in the late middle ages. Most canine historians tend to ignore the fact that under Ottoman rule shipping was almost exclusively in the hands of Greeks, who carried an already 3500 years old naval tradition. Originating in central Asia, Turks lacked shipping skills, for which they relied almost exclusively upon the subjugated Greeks. Greece continues its long shipping tradition with currently the largest merchant marine fleet in the world. The above analysis is not intented as any claim on the respective nationalities of modern Turkish and Spanish water dogs. Both are now divergent groups with separate identities,as are Cyprus "Poodles/Bichons". This is only an outline of waterdog distribution in the Mediterranean basin with some inevitable historical references.
(συνεχιζεται απο κατω)
Greek/Hellenic Griffon and Griffon Caniche*
*Improvised terms describing two semi-cultivated and widespread strains of Greek dogs. An outline of populations largely kept in urban areas as pets. Both types are highly recognizable, but not officially aknowledged..
The Greek Griffon has a straight or slightly wavy, long, harsh or wire coat. It is akin to the great European/Eurasian long coated dog family such as Catalan, Siera de Aires sheepdogs, Barbado, Carea Castellano, Berger des Pyreness,Sardinian Fonni, Briard, Schapendoes, Polish Lowland, Bearded Colllie, Schapudel, Tibetan Terrier, Tibetan Kyi Apso, Korean Sapsaree, several obscure Balkan forms, including the Italian Cane Palleiro. The Griffon type was recently reported from various Black Sea areas, Anatolia, and south of Caspian Sea.The Egyptian Ermenti/Armant, dogs in Ethiopia/Eritrea highlands and certain strains in the Cameroons also belong to the wider "Griffon" family. Coats are double. A harsh outer coat and softer under coat. Colour range is essentially limitless including fawn with darker ears and muzzle, black,white, black/tan,black/cream,black/silver, grizzle/tan, blue/tan, gray, liver, black/white, fawn/white, liver/white. Griffons occur in roughly three sizes ; large, medium and small, ranging from 30-60cm but probably exceeding both upper and lower limits. Medium is most common. Small are less numerous. Large is rarest. Body frames are of a rectangular outline. Heads tend to be carried at a level with back when on the move. Tails are saber. This is the most widespread, recognized and dominant wire coated type.
Griffon Sub-types
A. Among small sizes, an often seen, short legged subtype manifests a tendency towards bassetism. Further research is needed to establish its identity. Found in both urban and rural areas where foreign pure breeds are unknown. One potential confirmed source of this form, is the north west Peloponnese region of Andravida, where an old, native nucleus of such dogs, have recently been located in a rural area. Similar dogs have been reported as formerly common in the Ionian isles.
B. A second subtype, identified by a British Lowchen breeder while holidaying in several Greek islands, resembles a larger Lowchen. An autochtonous type and not foreign import(s) as the British expert was surprised to find out. Bichon types were known in ancient Greece and are still widely believed to have had their source in the East Mediterranean. Little known, possibly confused with Griffons or even crossed with them.
C. A hairy, short legged type with large head and feet turned out somewhat resembling a Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Mainly rural north west Greece but possibly extending to eastern most parts. Differences to A and B need to be established through deeper research.
D. A striclty working strain, from central/east Greece possibly extending into the north west mountain regions. Known as "Moustakato" translating as "Bearded". It continues to be known as a herding and hunting dog, lacking protection instinct; also a little researched old type. It conformation is currently inconclusive. It may be that of a wire coated mountain flock guardian or a modified slightly lighter type. A certain source has carried out the first research and obtained photos.
E. Wire coated, generic, terrier phenotypes exist and occasionally confused with Griffon proper; but in fact form a distinct group. Slightly wavy coated Griffons may resemble Dutch Smoushonden or Weaten Terriers, but otherwise remain typical of the Griffon strain. "Griffon Terriers" consist of highly variable phenotypes.
Distribution of Griffon
It is found throughout the Greek mainland, islands, urban and rural areas. Its presence in isolated villages, where similar foreign purebreds have never been imported, is especially important.
The Greek Griffon Caniche. Also known as Caniche-Griffon, but more rarely. A type with close links to the water dog family. Generally perceived as transitonal forms between water and herding dogs, or as derivatives of water dogs, especially Poodles. The most typical "Hellenic" Griffon-Caniche are easily mistaken for Portuguese Water Dogs, Barbets or early European water dogs. Coats are medium to long, loosely curled or very wavy, softer and woolier than Griffons and mostly double. Some especially curled coats are very water dog like. Colour range is broader than most modern pure bred water dogs and includes, white, black, liver, fawn, cream, gray/blue, black/tan, black/tan/white, black with white trim-an early water dog colour-, white with black,gray,blue,brown,liver or fawn patches. Other colours are possible. Three sizes of Griffon-Caniche are known, ranging from 30-60cm. Large, medium, small. Medium is most numerous. Small is less common. Large is rarest. Body outlines are more rectangular compared to Poodles. Some of the small size may be especially short legged and appear with increasing frequency. Griffon-Caniche heads are more square and muzzles thicker set than in Poodles. Tails are saber or hanging low in repause, but may be carried somewhat curled over the back when alert. "Greek Water Dog"-"Hellenikos Skylos tou Nerou", is potentially a more appropriate name but unlikely to be adopted. Waterdogs as a group are, currently, little acknowledged in Greece.
Griffon-Caniche sub-types
A. A certain number are white with fawn or orange ears and fairly curled coats. This is an old Bichon colour also seen in Lagotto Romagnolo, Cyprus "Poodles/Bichons" and obscure south American bichons from Ecuador. Probably confused with and bred to "mainstream" Griffon-Caniche. Further research is needed to establish its identity and lineage. Also occurring in various sizes. Mostly medium and more rarely small. The existence of this type and occassional curled tails point to limited Bichon influence in the Griffon-Caniche gene pool. It may merely merit the status of a distinctive colour variation.
B.Another type with transitional Griffon-Griffon/Caniche characteristics has a staighter, soft coat. Mostly white. Size is in the upper ranges of small. It can be likened to a much larger, thicker set Maltese. A type probably closer to the '"extinct" or longer reported Bichon of Manilla/Philippines with no direct genetic link.
(The omnipresence of Greek merchant navy results in frequent unofficial importations of unlikely animal forms. This source cannot be entirely ruled out, but neither can it be attributed as the source of unclassifiable domestic dogs in modern Greece).
Geographical Distribution of Water Dogs in the Mediterranean Region
Griffon-Caniche are found throughout the mainland and islands of modern Greek territory in urban areas and small communities. Recent reports of minor strains, of herding/waterdogs in isolated rural areas confirm their deep native roots. Historically, water dogs were linked with the Greek islands and ancient Greek navigation, but were reported from mainland regions also. Similar water dog types are, presently, "rumoured" from coastal areas of western Turkey as working herding dogs. Coastal areas of Turkey/Asia Minor were inhabited by Greeks from 800 BC to 1920s AD. Modern Turkish water/herding dogs must be directly linked to those known and employed by Greeks for 2300 years, preceding the Turks' arrival in 1450s AD. To a great extent, all water dogs in Mediterranean coastal regions must be related. Gene pools have been disseminated largely via the sea routes trade. This pertains especially to southern Spanish Water Dogs/Turcos Andaluzes**, largely perceived as introduced via Turkish vessels in the late middle ages. Most canine historians tend to ignore the fact that under Ottoman rule shipping was almost exclusively in the hands of Greeks, who carried an already 3500 years old naval tradition. Originating in central Asia, Turks lacked shipping skills, for which they relied almost exclusively upon the subjugated Greeks. Greece continues its long shipping tradition with currently the largest merchant marine fleet in the world. The above analysis is not intented as any claim on the respective nationalities of modern Turkish and Spanish water dogs. Both are now divergent groups with separate identities,as are Cyprus "Poodles/Bichons". This is only an outline of waterdog distribution in the Mediterranean basin with some inevitable historical references.
(συνεχιζεται απο κατω)
Griffons, Griffon-Caniche in other parts of Europe
To some extent such terms are employed in France, Belgium even Marocco for superficially similar dogs. No concrete evidence exists of any links between those and Greek stock, which developed in isolation over long periods. A French expert had indicated there are "Canichoids" types distributed throughout the Mediterranean, forming "parallel" waterdog strains to Poodles. This was likely a hint at the various little known populations of water dogs in the Eastern Mediterranean and elsewhere.
Relationship between the types
Most fanciers/owners are aware of their differences and tend to breed same to same. Since there is no official recognition, breed club or standard, limited crossing of the two types is inevitable. To some extent both Griffon and Griffon/Caniche may be born in the same litters. Two coat types curled and straight/wavy occur naturally in the gene pools of Portuguese Water Dogs, Barbets, Spanish Water Dogs 'unofficially', Pulik, Havanese, early varieties of Irish Water Spaniels and Cyprus Poodles/Bichons. Herding and Water dogs are closely related and their functions have never been mutually exclusive. An example is the versatility of Spanish Water Dogs engaging in both herding and aquatic activities. The two types of coat in Greek populations could be attributed to similar genetics as above.
Numerical strength of Griffon and Griffon-Caniche
Observations spanning seven years reveal that both types are almost of equal strength; Griffon-Caniche being slightly more numerous. These rough statistics were obtained from fieldwork as well as classified advertisements in the popular press. Both sources produced similar results.
History
There has never been any serious research on Greek herding and water dogs. Considerable archaeological evidence shows that curly coated water or herding dogs were known in ancient Greece in religious, symbolic and practical terms. Long coats, being recessive, never completely disappear from a gene pool, even though not selectively bred for. To a large extent this explains their survival over long periods of time. There are huge time gaps of research to be filled, between the earliest references or water/herding dogs in Greece and 21st century. In more recent times long coated dogs of the Griffon type have been reported as working herders in several locations of rural Greece. Curly or very wavy coated herding dogs of the water dog type are also independently reported as employed in herding from various localities. Both accounts strengthen an emerging conviction that these are native types and not by-products of recent foreign imports. It has yet to be explained why and when water/herding dogs fell out of favour as working dogs in rural areas and made the transition into urban pets. Equally mysterious is the scarcity of references to these types as functional working dogs, especially during the last two centuries. Greek flock guardian dogs are comparatively far better documented. The earliest depiction of a waterdog in a Greek territory in recent history is in a 1865 Gravoure, by an unknown German artist. A medium size, black water dog appears in a scene set at the main Rhodes island harbour. In an urban context, a pet Griffon has been photographed in the 1930s, and a Griffon-Caniche in the early 1950s. Literary references testify their existence as urban companion dogs in the late 1800s or early 1900s. The 1930s-70s period marks the great urban expansion in Greece and decline in farming and agriculture. It also explains the re-location of dogs from rural areas to cities. Both types are kept in an urban context for over 100 years, or a minimum of 50 dog generations. Breeding has progressively intensified during the last 30 years.
Breeding
The trend of planning litters according to type, size and even colour, is noticeably on the increase. No "official" records are kept, but every indication exists that fairly fixed strains of Griffon and Griffon/Caniche are being created. First tentative research among advertized litters shows that crosses with spefic pure breds comprise 9-13 % of the total. The huge majority of 80-90 % are either products of planned breedings or of unknown origin. Documented instances of crossing Griffon with Griffon-Caniche exist resulting in offspring of both coats. Cases of wire/curly and short coated puppies and different sizes in the same litter are recorded.
Common Crosses
Documented crosses, as defined above, with established pure breeds are mostly accidental, but some may be deliberate. A very wide range of breeds have been crossed producing very untypical phenotypes, visible to the naked eye, and easily excluded from further breeding. By far the most common crosses are to Cocker Spaniels then to Pekignese and Pomeranian. Some Poodle admixture is inevitable, but difficult to account for since often it is misreported as one ingredient of the Griffon-Caniche, though no such crossing has taken place. When proper breed standards for Griffon and Griffon-Caniche are established, any resemblance to common crosses need to be classified as faults. Overly long ears and flattened faces are already easily detected deviations.
Popular Attitudes
Many and contrasting views exist regarding their identity. Local Vets are largely responsible for coining the descriptive terms Griffon and Griffon/Caniche. Their inexpert views led to much of current confusion. Variably seen as derivatives of similar foreign breeds, terriers or of simply unknown ancestry. Alternatively, perceived as native pure breeds. Lack of research on native herding and water dogs created an illusion that long or curly coats originated in colder North European climates. Puppies are sold for modest prices, available through pet shops or given for adoption to select homes. Very extensively advertised in classified adds. If stray are quicky re-homed. Little value is placed on working abilities, partly explaining their early retirement from "active duty". Official cynological circles in Greece dismiss them as unimportant, contrasting their great popularity among ordinary fanciers. A minority of enlightened local experts are beginning to acknowledge them. Visiting foreign judges have noted their potential status as distinctive native strains.
Functions
Mainly domestic house/pet dogs. Most have very domesticated temperaments. Some protection instincts allows them to perform as watch dogs. Relic strains in rural areas may retain herding abilities.
Etymology
The original ancient Greek word "Gryfos" translating as "bend, uneven, curved, rough" was adopted and modified in France to "Griffon". It then became a popular term in Europe for indicating wire coats in a variety of breeds. In Greece the term "Gryfos" over the years fell out of use as other alternatives were employed for describing wire coats. "Griffon" was re-introduced from France into Greece as a popular term, during the last 150 years. Greeks call these exported and re-imported, slightly modified terms, "linguistic counter loans". Essentially, and despite popular misconceptions, Griffon, is not an unsuitable term for Greek dogs.
"Caniche" is an entirely French term, but so well established in Greece that it is difficult replacing. Generally, Griffon-Caniche/Caniche-Griffon is loosely employed for describing dilute waterdog phenotypes, and not Poodle/Caniche blood.
συνεχιζεται απο κατω
To some extent such terms are employed in France, Belgium even Marocco for superficially similar dogs. No concrete evidence exists of any links between those and Greek stock, which developed in isolation over long periods. A French expert had indicated there are "Canichoids" types distributed throughout the Mediterranean, forming "parallel" waterdog strains to Poodles. This was likely a hint at the various little known populations of water dogs in the Eastern Mediterranean and elsewhere.
Relationship between the types
Most fanciers/owners are aware of their differences and tend to breed same to same. Since there is no official recognition, breed club or standard, limited crossing of the two types is inevitable. To some extent both Griffon and Griffon/Caniche may be born in the same litters. Two coat types curled and straight/wavy occur naturally in the gene pools of Portuguese Water Dogs, Barbets, Spanish Water Dogs 'unofficially', Pulik, Havanese, early varieties of Irish Water Spaniels and Cyprus Poodles/Bichons. Herding and Water dogs are closely related and their functions have never been mutually exclusive. An example is the versatility of Spanish Water Dogs engaging in both herding and aquatic activities. The two types of coat in Greek populations could be attributed to similar genetics as above.
Numerical strength of Griffon and Griffon-Caniche
Observations spanning seven years reveal that both types are almost of equal strength; Griffon-Caniche being slightly more numerous. These rough statistics were obtained from fieldwork as well as classified advertisements in the popular press. Both sources produced similar results.
History
There has never been any serious research on Greek herding and water dogs. Considerable archaeological evidence shows that curly coated water or herding dogs were known in ancient Greece in religious, symbolic and practical terms. Long coats, being recessive, never completely disappear from a gene pool, even though not selectively bred for. To a large extent this explains their survival over long periods of time. There are huge time gaps of research to be filled, between the earliest references or water/herding dogs in Greece and 21st century. In more recent times long coated dogs of the Griffon type have been reported as working herders in several locations of rural Greece. Curly or very wavy coated herding dogs of the water dog type are also independently reported as employed in herding from various localities. Both accounts strengthen an emerging conviction that these are native types and not by-products of recent foreign imports. It has yet to be explained why and when water/herding dogs fell out of favour as working dogs in rural areas and made the transition into urban pets. Equally mysterious is the scarcity of references to these types as functional working dogs, especially during the last two centuries. Greek flock guardian dogs are comparatively far better documented. The earliest depiction of a waterdog in a Greek territory in recent history is in a 1865 Gravoure, by an unknown German artist. A medium size, black water dog appears in a scene set at the main Rhodes island harbour. In an urban context, a pet Griffon has been photographed in the 1930s, and a Griffon-Caniche in the early 1950s. Literary references testify their existence as urban companion dogs in the late 1800s or early 1900s. The 1930s-70s period marks the great urban expansion in Greece and decline in farming and agriculture. It also explains the re-location of dogs from rural areas to cities. Both types are kept in an urban context for over 100 years, or a minimum of 50 dog generations. Breeding has progressively intensified during the last 30 years.
Breeding
The trend of planning litters according to type, size and even colour, is noticeably on the increase. No "official" records are kept, but every indication exists that fairly fixed strains of Griffon and Griffon/Caniche are being created. First tentative research among advertized litters shows that crosses with spefic pure breds comprise 9-13 % of the total. The huge majority of 80-90 % are either products of planned breedings or of unknown origin. Documented instances of crossing Griffon with Griffon-Caniche exist resulting in offspring of both coats. Cases of wire/curly and short coated puppies and different sizes in the same litter are recorded.
Common Crosses
Documented crosses, as defined above, with established pure breeds are mostly accidental, but some may be deliberate. A very wide range of breeds have been crossed producing very untypical phenotypes, visible to the naked eye, and easily excluded from further breeding. By far the most common crosses are to Cocker Spaniels then to Pekignese and Pomeranian. Some Poodle admixture is inevitable, but difficult to account for since often it is misreported as one ingredient of the Griffon-Caniche, though no such crossing has taken place. When proper breed standards for Griffon and Griffon-Caniche are established, any resemblance to common crosses need to be classified as faults. Overly long ears and flattened faces are already easily detected deviations.
Popular Attitudes
Many and contrasting views exist regarding their identity. Local Vets are largely responsible for coining the descriptive terms Griffon and Griffon/Caniche. Their inexpert views led to much of current confusion. Variably seen as derivatives of similar foreign breeds, terriers or of simply unknown ancestry. Alternatively, perceived as native pure breeds. Lack of research on native herding and water dogs created an illusion that long or curly coats originated in colder North European climates. Puppies are sold for modest prices, available through pet shops or given for adoption to select homes. Very extensively advertised in classified adds. If stray are quicky re-homed. Little value is placed on working abilities, partly explaining their early retirement from "active duty". Official cynological circles in Greece dismiss them as unimportant, contrasting their great popularity among ordinary fanciers. A minority of enlightened local experts are beginning to acknowledge them. Visiting foreign judges have noted their potential status as distinctive native strains.
Functions
Mainly domestic house/pet dogs. Most have very domesticated temperaments. Some protection instincts allows them to perform as watch dogs. Relic strains in rural areas may retain herding abilities.
Etymology
The original ancient Greek word "Gryfos" translating as "bend, uneven, curved, rough" was adopted and modified in France to "Griffon". It then became a popular term in Europe for indicating wire coats in a variety of breeds. In Greece the term "Gryfos" over the years fell out of use as other alternatives were employed for describing wire coats. "Griffon" was re-introduced from France into Greece as a popular term, during the last 150 years. Greeks call these exported and re-imported, slightly modified terms, "linguistic counter loans". Essentially, and despite popular misconceptions, Griffon, is not an unsuitable term for Greek dogs.
"Caniche" is an entirely French term, but so well established in Greece that it is difficult replacing. Generally, Griffon-Caniche/Caniche-Griffon is loosely employed for describing dilute waterdog phenotypes, and not Poodle/Caniche blood.
συνεχιζεται απο κατω
Note:*
(In a previous communication these groups were referred to as "Hellenic Caniche Griffons and their variations". Hellas and Hellenic are the original and official terms for "Greece" and "Greek". Greece derives from a specific early tribe the "Graikoi" after which the Romans named all Hellens-Greeks- and spread the term throughout Europe. The Hellenes themselves never used, and continue to do so, the term "Greek". Its as if a whole people are called after a particular sub-group e.g. if all Americans were called "Texans" or "Californians" or all Germans were labelled as "Bavarians". "Hellen" is pronounced "Elin". The "H" is silent.The "E" sounds as in "ever". A better spelling would be Ellas or Ellin reflecting ancient "Greek/Ellenic" grammar).
**
Spanish Water Dogs except straight and curly coats also unofficially occur in three sizes. This is another important similarity shared with Griffon-Caniche and Cyprus Poodles. Portuguese Water Dogs unofficially also occur in intermediate coats which are neither curly nor wavy.
***
According to vet information weights for both types may range between 3-17 kgs. This fluctuation leaves enough space for three sizes.
Conclusion
Greek Griffon and Griffon-Caniche are two emerging breeds of potentially ancient roots. Not entirely fixed due to lack of official registration, breed standards and clubs, they have a momentum all of their own. Enthusiastic but unco-ordinated amateur breeding is gradually fixing type and separating their gene pools. Several sub-groups differing in outline, coat texture and colour may constitute future valid varieties requiring further research.
The following are specimens that I consider especially typical of each type. I include many more to show type variability. Some may have coats shaved for the summer months or groomed which changes coat texture and makes identification difficult. I have made a few errors in classification and photo captions but these are easy to figure out.
Griffons
11, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 30, 35, 39, 42, 43, 44, 52, 54, 56, 57, 60, 63, 67, 74, 77, 78, Greek Griffon Crete 2, Greek Griffon Crete 6, Greek griffon large size 1, Greek Griffon large size-Crete, Greek Griffon Ioannina, Greek Griffon Thessaloniki, Greek Griffon Thessaloniki 1, Greek Griffon Crete.
Small Griffon:
28, 68, 70, Greek Griffon, Greek Griffon small size, small size 1,
Short legged Griffon :
26,
Griffon-Caniche,
53-wrongly labelled as Griffon,4, 5, 9, 24, 31, 32, 37,Griffon-Caniche Crete 1, Griffon-Caniche Greek islands, Griffon-Caniche Lesvos 1, GC Lesvos 2, Griffon-Caniche, Griffon-Caniche jpg. Griffon-Caniche Paros 1,
Griffon-Caniche subtype-white with orange ears.
Greek Bichon-water dog 2, GBWD 3, GBWD 5, GBWD 6, GBWD phenotype, Griffon-Caniche 1 misidentified GBWD, Griffon-Caniche 8 misidentified GBWD.
(In a previous communication these groups were referred to as "Hellenic Caniche Griffons and their variations". Hellas and Hellenic are the original and official terms for "Greece" and "Greek". Greece derives from a specific early tribe the "Graikoi" after which the Romans named all Hellens-Greeks- and spread the term throughout Europe. The Hellenes themselves never used, and continue to do so, the term "Greek". Its as if a whole people are called after a particular sub-group e.g. if all Americans were called "Texans" or "Californians" or all Germans were labelled as "Bavarians". "Hellen" is pronounced "Elin". The "H" is silent.The "E" sounds as in "ever". A better spelling would be Ellas or Ellin reflecting ancient "Greek/Ellenic" grammar).
**
Spanish Water Dogs except straight and curly coats also unofficially occur in three sizes. This is another important similarity shared with Griffon-Caniche and Cyprus Poodles. Portuguese Water Dogs unofficially also occur in intermediate coats which are neither curly nor wavy.
***
According to vet information weights for both types may range between 3-17 kgs. This fluctuation leaves enough space for three sizes.
Conclusion
Greek Griffon and Griffon-Caniche are two emerging breeds of potentially ancient roots. Not entirely fixed due to lack of official registration, breed standards and clubs, they have a momentum all of their own. Enthusiastic but unco-ordinated amateur breeding is gradually fixing type and separating their gene pools. Several sub-groups differing in outline, coat texture and colour may constitute future valid varieties requiring further research.
The following are specimens that I consider especially typical of each type. I include many more to show type variability. Some may have coats shaved for the summer months or groomed which changes coat texture and makes identification difficult. I have made a few errors in classification and photo captions but these are easy to figure out.
Griffons
11, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 30, 35, 39, 42, 43, 44, 52, 54, 56, 57, 60, 63, 67, 74, 77, 78, Greek Griffon Crete 2, Greek Griffon Crete 6, Greek griffon large size 1, Greek Griffon large size-Crete, Greek Griffon Ioannina, Greek Griffon Thessaloniki, Greek Griffon Thessaloniki 1, Greek Griffon Crete.
Small Griffon:
28, 68, 70, Greek Griffon, Greek Griffon small size, small size 1,
Short legged Griffon :
26,
Griffon-Caniche,
53-wrongly labelled as Griffon,4, 5, 9, 24, 31, 32, 37,Griffon-Caniche Crete 1, Griffon-Caniche Greek islands, Griffon-Caniche Lesvos 1, GC Lesvos 2, Griffon-Caniche, Griffon-Caniche jpg. Griffon-Caniche Paros 1,
Griffon-Caniche subtype-white with orange ears.
Greek Bichon-water dog 2, GBWD 3, GBWD 5, GBWD 6, GBWD phenotype, Griffon-Caniche 1 misidentified GBWD, Griffon-Caniche 8 misidentified GBWD.
Οι φωτογραφιες ειναι του Β. Λεκκα, το γκρουπαρισμα δικο μου.Τις φωτογραφίες του Ελληνικού γκριφόν που παραθέτω μου της έστειλε η FAINOMENON:
Αυτη εδω την πρωτη ομαδα την ονομασα προχειρα ελληνικους Γρυφους και παρουσιαζουν φανερη ομοιογενεια - ειναι σκληροτριχοι (με τραχυ ημιμακρο μανδυα, το μηκος ποικιλλει) σκυλοι μεσου μεγεθους, γενικης χρησιμοτητας, αλλοι ειναι φυλακες, αλλοι αγροτικοι σκυλοι πολλαπλων καθηκοντων, αλλοι κυνηγιου & συντροφιας. Παλια ειχα τετοιο σκυλο που προερχοταν απο ελληνικα αγριογουρουνοσκυλα. Πολλοι κυνηγοι χρησιμοποιουσαν τετοιους σκυλους στο κυνηγι αγριοχοιρου στην Ελλαδα μεχρι και τη δεκαετια 70 - 80 τουλαχιστο που τους προλαβα εγω...Λογω χαρακτηρα και ιδιοτυπιας νομιζω οτι ειναι αξιοι να προσεχθουν και να καλλιεργηθουν. Καμμια σχεση με κανισοειδή ! (στις φωτο σκυλοι απο διαφορα μερη της Ελλαδας (Θεσσαλονικη, Κρητη, Σαμο)
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δευτερη ομαδα δειγματων μικροτερου μεγεθους με μανδυα σκληρο ή κατσαρο, καποια εχουν στοιχεια απο το γκριφονοειδη τυπο, καποια απο τον κανισοειδη , αδοκιμη η επωνυμια ελληνικα γκριφον-κανις κατ εμε γιατι αυτη η ομαδα παρουσιαζει ειτε τον τυπο του νεροσκυλου ειτε του πιο μικροσωμου (απο την πρωτη κατηγορια) γκριφον. Φωτο απο διαφορες περιοχες της Ελλαδας. Χρησιμοποιουνται σαν προειδοποιητικοι φυλακες και σκυλοι συντροφιας.
εδω βλεπουμε στις 2 πανω φωτο τη διαφορα μεταξυ γκριφονοειδη τυπου (το δευτερο εχει πιο μαλακο - ανοιχτο μανδυα) με τον κανισοειδη τυπο (κουρεμενο δειγμα στην 3η φωτο, απο τη Ναξο)3η ομαδα φωτογραφιων
εδω εχουμε δειγματα τυπου γκριφον - τερριερ, γκριφον - μπισον/μαλτηζ και γκριφον-κανις με σκληρο τριχωμα
4η ομάδα φωτογραφιών
στη φωτο διαφορα δειγματα perro de agua cantabrico απο την ομωνυμη Ισπανικη παραλια περιοχη - για συγκριση, σε πρωτη ματια μοιαζει κι αυτο κανισοειδες ή λαγγοτοειδες...αλλα ειναι σκυλος του νερου5η ομάδα φωτογραφιών (παρεμφερής τύπος σκύλου από Ισπανία)
Έχει σημασία; Σοβαρά τώρα....
Πρέπει να τα ονομάσουμε ΟΛΑ;
Επειδή οι παπάρε@ οι Ισπανοί, βγήκαν έξω κι όνόμασαν το κάθε κοπρίδι, πρέπει να το κάνουμε κι εμείς;
ΔΕΝ ΕΙΝΑΙ ΦΥΛΗ. ΕΙΝΑΙ ΟΜΟΡΦΟ ΗΜΙΑΙΜΟ !
ΠΕΙΡΑΖΕΙ;;;;;;
Πρέπει να τα ονομάσουμε ΟΛΑ;
Επειδή οι παπάρε@ οι Ισπανοί, βγήκαν έξω κι όνόμασαν το κάθε κοπρίδι, πρέπει να το κάνουμε κι εμείς;
ΔΕΝ ΕΙΝΑΙ ΦΥΛΗ. ΕΙΝΑΙ ΟΜΟΡΦΟ ΗΜΙΑΙΜΟ !
ΠΕΙΡΑΖΕΙ;;;;;;
Με ενοχλεί αφάνταστα που μερικοί τύποι ΔΕΝ μπορούν να μην έχει ράτσα ο σκύλος τους.
ΔΕΝ είναι ντροπή να έχεις ημίαιμο.
Ντροπή είναι να λες μπαρούφες για να καλύπτεις δικές σου ανασφάλειες....
ΔΕΝ είναι ντροπή να έχεις ημίαιμο.
Ντροπή είναι να λες μπαρούφες για να καλύπτεις δικές σου ανασφάλειες....
