01/Overview
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, often abbreviated as the PBGV, is a small, vivacious French hound known for its rough, tousled coat and enthusiastic spirit. Steeped in a rich hunting tradition, the breed was developed to track small game over the rough and challenging terrain of the Vendée region. Its name is descriptive of the dog's many attributes: "Petit" means small; "Basset" indicates it is low to the ground; "Griffon" refers to the rough and wiry coat; and "Vendéen" ties it to its region of origin.
Highlights
02/History
Tracing its roots to the Vendée region of Western France, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, commonly abbreviated as PBGV, is a breed with a rich hunting history. Historical records suggest that ancestors of the modern PBGV have been around since ancient times. However, specific references to the "Basset" type of French hounds began emerging in the 16th century. The primary role of these dogs was hunting small game, especially rabbits.
By the 19th century, distinctions were becoming more pronounced among the Bassets of France. The challenging terrain of the Vendée, which is marked by dense underbrush and a rugged landscape, demanded a hound with specific attributes that made it suitable for terrain. Thus, the breed's short legs, rough coat, and keen sense of smell made it particularly adept at pursuing game throughout the region.
The PBGV was formally distinguished from its larger cousin, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, based on its size, appearance, and hunting capabilities. As the breed's popularity grew, especially in the show ring during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, breeders started to refine the breed and established a written Breed standard.
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognized the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen in 1976, marking a significant milestone for the breed on the international stage. This recognition was a testament to its distinctive qualities and its growing popularity outside of France. The American Kennel Club (AKC) also granted official recognition to the PBGV in 1990.
Today, the PBGV is celebrated not just for its historical significance as a proficient hunting dog but also for its vivacious personality and endearing demeanor. Its journey from the rugged landscape of France to the living rooms of enthusiasts worldwide is a testament to its adaptability, resilience, and charm.
03/Appearance
Adult Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens typically stand around 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. A height over 15 inches is unacceptable in this small hunting hound.
Weight-wise, both males and females generally range between 25 and 40 pounds, with slight variations due to a hound's genetics and lifestyle.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is longer than it is tall, creating a somewhat rectangular profile. For the PBGV, proportions are measured from the point of shoulder to the buttocks and from the withers to the ground. This hound's substance is solid without being heavy, and it showcases a muscular physique that's indicative of the breed's stamina and endurance in the field. The general impression is harmonious and well-proportioned , with no exaggerated features.
Texture: The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen possesses a distinctive rough and tousled double coat with a casual appearance. There is a harsh outer coat and a shorter, thicker undercoat. The head sports distinctive eyebrows as well as a beard and mustache, and the ears are covered in long hair. The tail is also well furnished with hair. No scissoring or shaping is needed to keep the coat looking its best.
Markings: The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen’s coat can vary greatly in pattern. The white base color can have few colored markings or it may be heavily marked. Markings may appear as patches or as a blanket and patches. Patches are clearly defined and may be mixed with ticking throughout the longer white hairs.
Standard Colors
04/Consider
The decision to add a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen to the home requires an understanding of this spirited breed's unique characteristics and behaviors. The PBGV is an energetic and enthusiastic companion, with the independent nature of a typical scenthound. While these dogs might appear charming and easy-going, they are, at their core, hunting dogs, and they possess a high prey drive. Their spirited demeanor means they require consistent training and an outlet for their energy.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeéen is generally a robust dog, but like all breeds and mixed breeds, the PBGV has specific health considerations. Lifespan: The average lifespan for a PMGV is around 14 to 16 years; a respectable age for a dog of its size.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, affectionately known as PBGV, is a lively and spirited breed of dog, filled with plenty of enthusiasm and charm. These hounds typically possess a friendly and outgoing nature, making them delightful companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. As descendants of packs hunters, their keen nose and innate curiosity can often lead them on scent-driven adventures.
New dog owners may find the PBGV to be a great fit, but it is important to understand the breed's inherent hound characteristics. These dogs can sometimes be stubborn and determined, especially when they catch an interesting scent. With gentle, consistent training methods, they can usually be taught to be obedient and well-mannered.
The breed's social nature means these hounds will generally get along well with other dogs. While they are typically good with children, it is essential for all interactions to be supervised. The PBGV's friendly demeanor extends to strangers too, as these dogs often greet people with wagging tails and expressions of delight.
Despite the breed's smaller size, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is not a dog that enjoys being left alone for extended periods. These little hounds thrive on human interaction and can become distressed or even destructive when neglected. However, as a breed that is rich in personality, with a genuine zest for life, a happy and content PBGV can surely bring joy and laughter to any home.
Exercise Expectations
Given their hunting background, PBGVs often exhibit a high prey drive. This means that they can be prone to chasing after squirrels, birds, or other small animals, making it imperative to have them on a leash or in a securely fenced area when outside. They love playing fetch, sniffing out interesting scents, and participating in interactive games that challenge their minds and bodies. While they are energetic outdoors, they are generally calm indoors, content to snuggle up with their family once they've had their fill of play and exercise. It's worth noting, however, that without sufficient activity, they can become bored and potentially destructive. As with many breeds, a tired PBGV is a well-behaved PBGV. In addition to physical exercise, mental stimulation is equally important for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent-tracking games can be excellent ways to keep their minds sharp and engaged.
Living with a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGV) is a joyous adventure filled with spirited play, loyalty, and a dash of mischief. Their compact size makes them adaptable to various living environments, though they do appreciate having a safe space to run and play, whether it's a yard or a nearby park.
While they are often comfortable in an apartment setting, it's vital to ensure they get ample daily exercise to expend their natural energy. Otherwise, they might resort to undesirable behaviors out of boredom. Their inherent curiosity and strong hunting instincts can lead them to be particularly interested in scents and sounds, so a secure, fenced area is ideal when they're outside.
When it comes to weather, the breed's rough coat provides a certain degree of protection against colder climates. However, like all dogs, they shouldn't be left in extreme weather conditions for extended periods. They're generally tolerant of heat but should always have access to fresh water and shade during the warmer months.
In the household, PBGVs are known for their affable nature and tend to get along well with children and other pets. However, early socialization is essential to ensure harmonious relationships, especially with smaller pets, given their hunting background. While they are endearing companions, they are also known to be quite vocal. This means they can be excellent watchdogs, alerting you to any strangers or unusual occurrences, but it also means potential challenges in noise-sensitive living situations.
05/Puppies
The allure of a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen puppy is undeniable. With its tousled coat, bright eyes, and playful demeanor, the pup can instantly captivate the coldest of hearts. But while these puppies are undeniably adorable, it is essential to remember that they are also energetic, and intelligent, and they require dedication to their care and training.
Bringing a PBGV puppy home is not just a joyous occasion but also a serious commitment. These puppies are inquisitive and active, and their early experiences can shape their temperament and behavior as adults. A well-socialized PBGV puppy, introduced to various environments, people, and other animals, will more likely grow up to become a well-rounded adult.
Caring for a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen puppy goes beyond just feeding and grooming. From the moment the pup arrives in its new home, a regimen of proper diet, regular vet checks, training, and socialization should begin.
Proper feeding is paramount. Puppies have different nutritional needs compared to adults, so it is best to opt for high-quality puppy food that caters to small breeds. The diet should be rich in proteins and essential nutrients that support the pup's rapid growth. Providing fresh water should go without saying.
Vaccinations are another crucial aspect of puppy care. it is important to work closely with the PBGV's breeder and a veterinarian to set up a vaccination schedule. Regular health check-ups will ensure that the puppy is growing well and can help to identify any potential health issues early on.
Training should commence at an early age. The PBGV is an intelligent breed, but it can be stubborn at times. Using positive reinforcement techniques, starting with basic commands and housetraining, and enrolling the pup in a puppy training class can be beneficial.
Finally, socialization is essential for a PBGV puppy. Exposure to different environments, people, sounds, and other animals is key. This will help the puppy to become a confident adult in a variety of situations. It is important to remember that a well-cared-for PBGV puppy will more likely to grow into a happy, healthy, and well-mannered adult.
06/Activities
Given the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen's lively nature and keen sense of smell, these hounds can excel in a variety of dog sports. Here's a list of activities and sports in which the PBGV is likely to shine:
Engaging a PBGV in these activities not only provides physical and mental stimulation but also strengthens the bond between the dog and its owner.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
09/Rescue
10/Facts
Distinct Relatives
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen shares its early ancestry with the larger Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, but it was bred to hunt over a slightly different terrain in pursuit of a different prey.
Vocal Nature
PBGVs are known for their expressive and sonorous bark. They were initially bred to be vocal while hunting, alerting hunters to their location and prey..
Celebrity Status
The breed gained some limelight when a PBGV named "CH Soletrader Buddy Holly" won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 2023.
Highly Sociable
PBGVs are known for their friendly disposition and get along well with other dogs, pets, and even strangers.
Historical Ties
The PBGV has a rich history in France, with roots that trace back to the 16th century. They were primarily used for hunting small game, such as rabbits, by scent.
11/FAQ
Yes, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens do shed, but the shedding is considered moderate. Their rough, wiry coats help to trap some of the loose hair, but regular grooming can help to manage and reduce the amount of hair that ends up around the house.
Official Standard of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
General Appearance: The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a French scent hound developed first and foremost to hunt small game over the rough and difficult terrain of the Vendéen region. To function efficiently, he must be equipped with certain characteristics. He is bold and vivacious in character; compact, tough and robust in construction. He has an alert outlook, lively bearing and a good voice freely and purposefully used. The most distinguishing characteristics of this bold hunter are: his rough, unrefined outlines; his proudly carried head displaying definitive long eyebrows, beard, and moustache; his strong, tapered tail carried like a saber, alert and in readiness. Important to breed type is the compact, casual, rather tousled appearance, with no feature exaggerated and his parts in balance. Any deviation from the ideal described in the standard should be penalized to the extent of the deviation. Structural faults common to all breeds are as undesirable in the PBGV as in any other breed, regardless of whether they are specifically mentioned.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - PBGVs measure between 13 and 15 inches at the withers. Height over 15 inches is a disqualification. Height under 13 inches is a disqualification at one year of age or older. Proportion - When viewed in profile, the body is somewhat longer than tall when measured from point of shoulder to buttocks, as compared to the height from withers to ground. Substance - Strong bone with substance in proportion to overall dog.
Head: The head is carried proudly and, in size, must be in balance with the overall dog. It is longer than its width in a ratio of approximately two to one. A coarse or overly large head is to be penalized. Expression alert, friendly and intelligent. Eyes large and dark with good pigmentation, somewhat oval in shape, showing no white. The red of the lower eyelid should not show. The eyes are surmounted by long eyebrows, standing forward, but not obscuring the eyes. Ears supple, narrow and fine, covered with long hair, folding inward and ending in an oval shape. The leathers reach almost to the end of the nose. They are set on low, below the line of the eyes. An overly long or high-set ear should be penalized. Skull domed, oval in shape when viewed from the front. It is well cut away under the eyes and has a well-developed occipital protuberance. Stop clearly defined. Muzzle - The length of the muzzle from nose to stop is slightly shorter than the length from the stop to occiput. The underjaw is strong and well developed. Nose black and large, with wide nostrils. A somewhat lighter shading is acceptable in lighter colored dogs. A butterfly nose is a fault. Lips - The lips are covered by long hair forming a beard and moustache. Bite - It is preferable that the teeth meet in a scissors bite, but a level bite is acceptable.
Neck, Topline, Body: Neck - The neck is long and strong, without throatiness, and flows smoothly into the shoulders. Topline - The back is visibly level from withers to croup. There is a barely perceptible rise over a strong loin. Viewed in profile, the withers and the croup should be equidistant from the ground. Body muscular, somewhat longer than tall. Compact, casual in appearance, with no feature exaggerated and his parts in balance. Chest rather deep, with prominent sternum. Ribs moderately rounded, extending well back. Loin short, strong, and muscular. There is but little tuck-up. Tail of medium length, set on high, it is strong at the base and tapers regularly. It is well furnished with hair, has but a slight curve and is carried proudly like the blade of a saber; normally pointing at about two o'clock. In a curved downward position the tip of the tail bone should reach no further than the hock joint.
Forequarters: Shoulders clean and well laid back. Upper arm approximately equal in length to the shoulder blade. Elbows close to the body. Legs - The length of leg from elbow to ground should be slightly more than half the height from withers to ground. Viewed from the front, it is desirable that the forelegs be straight, but a slight crook is acceptable. In either case, the leg appears straight, is strong and well boned, but never coarse nor weedy. Improperly constructed front assemblies, including poor shoulder placement, short upper arms, out at elbows, lack of angulation and fiddle fronts, are all serious faults. Pasterns strong and slightly sloping. Any tendency to knuckle over is a serious fault. Dewclaws may, or may not, be removed. Feet not too long, between hare and cat foot, with hard, tight pads. The nails are strong and short.
Hindquarters: Strong and muscular with good bend of stifle. A well-defined second thigh. Hips wide, thighs well muscled. Hocks are short and well angulated, perpendicular from hock to ground. Feet are as in front. Except that they must point straight ahead.
Coat: The coat is rough, long without exaggeration and harsh to the touch, with a thick shorter undercoat. It is never silky or woolly. The eyes are surmounted by long eyebrows, standing forward but not obscuring the eyes. The ears are covered by long hair. The lips are covered by long hair forming a beard and moustache. The tail is well furnished with hair. The overall appearance is casual and tousled. The rough, unrefined outline and tousled appearance of this rustic hunting hound is essential. Any sculpting, clipping, scissoring or shaping of the coat is contrary to PBGV breed type. The PBGV coat should be clean, neatened as necessary, but always remain casually disarrayed. Any deviation from the ideal described here and in the General Appearance Section of the official standard should be penalized to the extent of the deviation.
Color: White with any combination of lemon, orange, black, sable, tricolor or grizzle markings, providing easy visibility in the field.
Gait: The movement should be free at all speeds. Front action is straight and reaching well forward. Going away, the hind legs are parallel and have great drive. Convergence of the front and rear legs towards his center of gravity is proportional to the speed of his movement. Gives the appearance of an active hound, capable of a full day's hunting.
Temperament: Confident, happy, extroverted, independent yet willing to please, never timid nor aggressive.
Disqualification: Height over 15 inches is a disqualification. Height under 13 inches is a disqualification at one year of age or older.
Approved April 22, 2014
Effective July 1, 2014
Scent Work
Discover the facts about a dog’s sense of smell and how it differs from ours. Learn about the nature of a dog’s nose and scent perception.
All About Judging
Discover the controversy around grooming the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen breed with insights from the JEC of the PBGV Club of America.
The tail of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is an expressive breed feature, set high and carried proudly. It is of medium length, reaching no further than the hock joint. The tail tapers to a point and is covered with long, harsh hair, echoing the body's coat texture. When the PBGV is in action or alert, the tail is often carried in a saber-like fashion in the two o’clock position, emphasizing the breed's lively disposition.
A Note About Color: Acceptable coloration varies from dog to dog and even from country to country, though a white ground is generally required to allow the PBGV to be easily seen in the field.
Coat Type
Rough, Double
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Long
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
Feeding a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen requires attention to their specific dietary needs based on age, weight, activity level, and overall health. Puppy PBGVs have different nutritional requirements than adults, so it's crucial to feed them puppy-specific food that supports their rapid growth and development. As they transition to adulthood, a high-quality adult dog food tailored to small breeds is generally recommended.
For an average adult PBGV, the typical amount of food may range between 1 to 1.5 cups per day, divided into two meals. However, the exact quantity will depend on the individual dog's metabolism, age, activity level, and the caloric content of the food. It's essential to monitor your dog's weight and adjust portions accordingly to prevent overfeeding and potential obesity.
Regular check-ins with a veterinarian will help ensure that their dietary needs are being met, especially since they can be prone to certain health issues that may require a specialized diet.
Always ensure fresh water is available at all times, and be cautious with treats; they should not constitute more than 10% of the dog's daily caloric intake. When considering treats or additional supplements, opt for high-quality, low-calorie options, and always introduce any new food or treat slowly to monitor for any adverse reactions.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is an intelligent breed, but its independent nature can sometimes make training a bit of a challenge. Historically bred to hunt in packs, they possess a strong sense of determination and can be a bit stubborn at times. Therefore, it's essential to start training them at an early age and maintain a consistent and positive approach throughout.
While they are eager to please, PBGVs have a pronounced sense of humor and can sometimes turn training sessions into playtime. Patience is key, and using positive reinforcement methods, such as treats or praise, can be very effective in teaching and motivating them. Because of their hunting background, they may have a strong prey drive. Thus, teaching them reliable recall is essential if they are to be allowed off-leash.
PBGVs are vocal and will often bark to alert their owners of strangers or if something catches their interest. Teaching them to control this behavior, especially in more urban settings, can be crucial. Despite their playful and occasionally mischievous nature, with consistent training and socialization, the PBGV can be a well-behaved companion both at home and in public spaces.
Their intelligence also makes them suitable candidates for dog sports and more advanced obedience training. However, always ensure training is seen as a fun activity for them, as they tend to respond best when they're enjoying the process.
Grooming Expectations
The rough texture of their coat helps protect the PBGV from brambles and harsh weather when they were historically used in hunting. Though this coat doesn't mat as easily as some breeds with softer fur, it's still essential to brush the PBGV at least once a week to remove loose hair, dirt, and potential tangles. Using a slicker brush or a hound mitt can be particularly effective. Bathing your PBGV should be done as needed. Due to their rough coat texture, they don't tend to get as oily as some other breeds, so frequent baths are not usually required. However, given their penchant for adventure and exploration, they can get into muddy or messy situations that might necessitate a bath. Pay attention to their ears, as their floppy nature can make them prone to ear infections. Clean them regularly with a vet-approved ear cleaning solution and check for signs of redness or foul odor. Trimming their nails, cleaning their teeth, and checking their pads for any signs of injury or foreign objects are other essential aspects of the grooming routine. Regular grooming not only keeps the PBGV looking their best but also provides an opportunity to check for signs of skin issues, ticks, or other potential health concerns.
