PETIT BASSET GRIFFON VENDÉEN
Breed Group: Scent Hound
For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club
Average height: 33 - 38 cms (13-15 in)
Average Weight: 11 - 18 kgs (25 - 40 lbs)
Coat Length: Long
Life Span: 12 - 15 years
Colours: White with lemon, orange, black, tri-color or grizzle markings
HISTORY
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGV) hails from the rugged terrain of the Vendée region in France, where it was developed over centuries to hunt small game animals like rabbits and hares. This breed’s name is a perfect descriptor of its characteristics: "Petit" means small, "Basset" refers to its low stature, "Griffon" describes its rough coat, and "Vendéen" denotes its region of origin. The PBGV was bred to be both sturdy and fearless, capable of navigating the dense underbrush and rocky terrain of its homeland with ease.
The breed’s history dates back to the 16th century, where it was developed alongside other hounds to meet the specific hunting needs of the region. The PBGV is closely related to the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, a larger and slower version bred for hunting bigger game. Over time, the Petit Basset became the preferred breed for hunters who needed a smaller, more agile dog capable of working independently and covering rough ground with persistence.
In 1959, the breed was officially recognized in France, and it gained popularity internationally in the years that followed, being recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1990. Today, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is cherished as both a hunting companion and a lively family pet, known for its joyful personality and tireless energy.
L.E.G.S.
Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.
Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.
Shedding
minimal <> considerable
Grooming
minimal <> likely to need professional grooming
Barking
relatively quiet <> very vocal
Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock
low<>high
Response to strangers
happy to greet everyone <> very wary
Affectionate with family
not at all<>very cuddly
Playful
serious<>very playful
Focus on handler (bond)
independent thinker<>very biddable
Excitable/Impulsive
very calm<>easily aroused
Motivated
laid back<>obsessive
Easy to care for
suitable for inexperienced<>challenging
Exercise needs
minimal<>hours daily
Off-lead exercise needs
happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom
Enrichment needs
basic<>needs challenges
WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR PBGV
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Joyful and Energetic: PBGVs are full of life and bring an infectious energy to any household, always ready for playtime or a new adventure.
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Affectionate Nature: They bond deeply with their families, offering a unique blend of independence and warmth that makes them delightful companions.
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Spirited Personality: Known for their cheerful disposition, PBGVs have a way of brightening up any room with their playful antics.
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Loyal Hunting Instincts: Their dedication and focus when on the scent are impressive, reflecting their deep-rooted history as skilled hunters.
WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH
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Joyful and Energetic: PBGVs are full of life and bring an infectious energy to any household, always ready for playtime or a new adventure.
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Affectionate Nature: They bond deeply with their families, offering a unique blend of independence and warmth that makes them delightful companions.
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Spirited Personality: Known for their cheerful disposition, PBGVs have a way of brightening up any room with their playful antics.
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Loyal Hunting Instincts: Their dedication and focus when on the scent are impressive, reflecting their deep-rooted history as skilled hunters.
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Vocal Tendencies: They are known for their loud, baying bark, which can be problematic in quieter living environments or close-knit neighborhoods.
YOUR PBGV PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS
Bringing home a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen puppy is an adventure filled with boundless energy and endless curiosity. PBGV puppies are lively and full of mischief, always exploring their surroundings with their nose to the ground. Early socialization and training are crucial to channel their natural instincts positively and to help them become well-mannered adults. Despite their independent nature, they thrive on interaction and play, making them delightful companions as they grow.
Puppy-proofing your home is essential, as their small size and curious nature will lead them into every nook and cranny. Prepare for a whirlwind of energy, but also for the deep satisfaction of watching your PBGV develop into a loyal, loving companion.
YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:
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Barking Control: A professional trainer can help manage and reduce excessive barking, which is common in this vocal breed.
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Socialization: PBGVs benefit from early and ongoing socialization with people and other dogs to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults.
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Impulse Control: These dogs can be easily excited by scents and movement, so training focused on recall and impulse control is important.
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Safe Exploration: Given their strong hunting instincts, guidance on safe and controlled exploration is essential to prevent them from following their nose into trouble.
YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY
Raising a PBGV requires a combination of patience, creativity, and consistency. Start with basic obedience training early, focusing on commands that will help manage their natural instincts, like "come" and "leave it." Since PBGVs are quick learners, keep training sessions short, fun, and filled with rewards to maintain their interest and cooperation. Early socialization is crucial to help them grow into well-rounded adults, so expose your puppy to a variety of environments, people, and other animals from a young age.
UPBRINGING
Raising a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen requires a combination of patience, creativity, and consistency. Start with basic obedience training early, focusing on commands that will help manage their natural instincts, like "come" and "leave it." Since PBGVs are quick learners, keep training sessions short, fun, and filled with rewards to maintain their interest and cooperation. Early socialization is crucial to help them grow into well-rounded adults, so expose your puppy to a variety of environments, people, and other animals from a young age. These dogs have high energy levels, so daily exercise is a must. This can include brisk walks, playtime in a secure yard, and interactive toys that challenge their minds. Given their love for following scents, it's important to always supervise them when off-lead to prevent them from wandering off.
LIFESTYLE
The ideal lifestyle for a PBGV is one that offers plenty of activity, interaction, and adventure. These dogs thrive in environments where they can engage in regular exercise, whether it's through long walks, playtime in a secure yard, or participating in dog sports like agility or scent work. While they can adapt to apartment living, they do best in homes where they have access to outdoor spaces to explore safely. PBGVs are happiest when they are part of family life, joining in on daily activities and receiving plenty of attention from their owners. They are social dogs that do not enjoy being left alone for long periods, so a household where someone is around for most of the day is ideal. Their natural hunting instincts mean they appreciate activities that engage their sense of smell, and they thrive in environments where their intelligence and energy are well-utilized.
INTERESTS & HOBBIES
PBGVs are naturally inclined towards activities that involve scent and exploration. They enjoy nose work, tracking, and any games that allow them to use their keen sense of smell. Outdoor adventures, such as hiking or exploring new environments, are also favorites for this breed, allowing them to satisfy their curiosity and energy. In addition to physical activities, PBGVs also appreciate mental challenges. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and even basic training exercises can keep them mentally stimulated and content. Engaging them in activities that mimic their hunting background, such as hide-and-seek or fetch, can be particularly satisfying for them.
EDUCATION
Training a PBGV should focus on positive reinforcement and consistency. Given their natural curiosity and energy, they respond well to reward-based training methods that keep them motivated and engaged. Start with basic obedience commands and gradually introduce more complex tasks to keep their training fresh and challenging. Since PBGVs are scent hounds, incorporating activities that allow them to use their nose, such as scent games or tracking exercises, can be particularly effective. Regular training sessions that are short, varied, and enjoyable will help reinforce good behavior and strengthen your bond with your dog.
