Read About Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

The PBGV, as it's known, is an enthusiastic, happy little dog with an indefatigable hunting ability. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium dog

2. Weight:

   25-40 lbs

3. Coat:

   Rough, harsh coat, with a thick, short undercoat. The coat should be neither wooly nor silky.

4. Shedding:

   Moderate shedder

5. Temperament:

   Enthusiastic, happy, willing little dog with great attitude and willingness.

6. Obedience:

   All scent-hounds are a little deficient in the obeying department. Don't expect a perfect pup, but do be prepared for a great deal of vibrant little dog. He wants to be good, but everything else is just so darned interesting.

7. Ease of Training:

   Can be a little stubborn, but can be trained. Hounds as a class are a little headstrong.

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with children.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Hounds/2005

2. Size & Weight:

   13-15"; 30-40 lbs

3. Coat:

   Rough, harsh coat, with a thick, short undercoat. The coat should be neither wooly nor silky.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Cute little head under the eyebrows, mustache, and beard. Big, dark eyes.

5. Body:

   Sturdy rectangular body, low to the ground, with a deep chest.

6. Colors:

   Main color is white, in combination with markings in lemon, orange, black, sable, tricolor or grizzle.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-15 years

8. Popularity:

   Like most hounds, the PBGV is not in the Top 100 most popular AKC breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The PBGV prefers temperate weather, room to scamper, and a lot of love. This is not a dog that will put up with being ignored. Be sure to give him lots to do, so he doesn't get bored and invent his own (destructive) games.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   France, in the Vendeen area

2. Historical Information:

   The PBGV was developed to hunt rabbit and other small game in rough terrain. Although the breed has been documented since the 17th C., there is a sibling breed, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen, and the two were not distinguished from each other by a breed standard until 1950. In 1975, the two breeds were no longer interbreeding to separate the two types. The GrandBGV measures 15-17", and the PetitBGV is less than 15", so puppies from litters of these dogs can be either big or small, depending on luck and genetics.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Enthusiastic, happy, willing little dog with great attitude and willingness.

2. Behavior:

   This is a dog without an Off switch. He's continually investigating, sniffing about, playing, wagging his tail, and generally being cheerful and nosy.

3. Habits:

   The PBGV is a scent hound, and will want to explore, dig, and bark. He's personality plus, and a little much if you don't know what you're getting into!

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   While overall a healthy dog, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen has sometimes displayed some of the following issues: • back problems • epilepsy • eye problems • hip dysplasia • hypothyroidism • luxating patellae • persistent pupillary membranes

2. Exercise Needs:

   A scent hound, the PBGV will need a good bit of exercise every day.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Needs to be brushed once or twice a week to prevent matting.

4. Travel Needs:

   A small dog with a heavy coat, the PBGV needs temperate weather to travel.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Gets along very well with other pets and children. Be cautious, obviously, introducing this dog to rabbits, because those have been his prey for 400 years.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy. Their happy-go-lucky, willing nature will be evident, as will their scenting propensities.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy. Keep in mind that Petit Bassets Griffon Vendeen will follow their nose without fail -- be sure their fencing is sturdy and reliable if they are off leash in a back yard.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him. "Petits" are very curious and smart -- protect them from themselves.