The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, "PBGV" or "Petit" for short, is a small, shaggy-coated scent hound developed in France. Known for their charming personality and cuddly appearance, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are extremely outgoing, confident, and proud dogs who, despite their short stature, stand tall with their heads held high.

Though they were initially bred to be skilled hunters, the PBGV is a fun-loving, active dog bound to entertain their family and keep their day-to-day life exciting. These French hounds are beloved for their long mustaches, droopy ears, and high-spirited personality. A PBGV would be a great match for an active, experienced pet parent or a new pet parent who has carefully researched the breed and has a compatible lifestyle.

Learn more about the characteristics, history, and care needs of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen.

Characteristics of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen's temperament is often described as affectionate, loyal, and good-natured. Nicknamed "the happy breed," PBGVs are truly happy little extroverts who cherish attention and want to bring joy to their people. But as sweet and companionable as this breed is, they're not lap dogs. A PBGV's favorite place is not only in the spotlight but in the great outdoors, too. Originally bred for hunting, PBGVs are instinctively active and curious dogs who go wherever their noses take them and have a strong prey drive. Agile and bright, PBGVs revel in staying busy, thriving with ample playtime and opportunities to put their minds to work.

This breed loves being around their family. Not to mention, they get along with everyone and are suitable for families with children and other pets with a proper introduction early on. In households with small children, it's important to teach them how to gently interact with small breeds like the PBGV and always supervise playtime.

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen can thrive in any living situation as long as they have plenty of space to exercise. Because they're hounds and tend to sniff out scents with their incredible instincts, a fully fenced yard or leash will be required. And though this breed may be on the smaller side, they have a big bark. Pair this with their alertness, and you have one outstanding guard dog.

History of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

According to the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Club of America (PBGVCA), the PBGV is of ancient descent with origins tracing back to the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen in the 16th century. The PBGV name is French and translates to: "Petit" - small; "Basset" - low to the ground; "Griffon" - wire-coated; "Vendéen" - the area of France where the breed originated. The PBGV belongs to a group of 28 hound breeds that originated in France, with each hound developed to hunt different game by scent. For the PBGV, the game was typically rabbits and hares.

In 1909, the Dezamy family created what would be a single standard for the Basset Griffon Vendéen that recognized both the Grand and the Petit. After four decades, the Societe de Venerie established a new book of standards and gave the PBGV its official standard, making it a separate breed in 1952.

The PBGV would finally catch the attention and interest of Americans at the 1983 "Super Match" when a 12-week-old PBGV named Alexander won Best in Match and defeated over 3,000 other dogs. A woman named Elizabeth Streeter was the first to import PBGV puppies from France and England to form a working pack in the '70s and was the first to whelp PBGV litters once Alexander won the hearts of many following his victory.

Due to the amount of interest people had taken in PBGVs, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Club of America was formed to protect and promote the breed in November 1984. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the PBGV as the 130th breed on December 1, 1990.

Since then, the PBGV has gained popularity—and it's easy to see why. More recently, Buddy Holly, a PBGV, made history as the first of his breed to win Best in Show at the 2023 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Care

Petits Bassets Griffons Vendéens require ample exercise and enrichment daily to stay happy and healthy. While they're a highly active and intelligent breed that's at their best with consistent training, they're not high maintenance when it comes to grooming. Outside of regular dental care and nail trimmings, they require weekly brushing and monthly baths to keep their scruffy coats healthy—and fashionably unkempt.

Exercise

If you're looking for the perfect exercising buddy, look no further than the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. PBGVs are anything but couch potatoes. Considering their history as skilled hunters, this breed has high energy and high intelligence—thus, requiring plenty of exercise. PBGVs are also escape artists, following wherever their amazing noses take them. So, they must be always on a leash when venturing outdoors and only off a leash in a secure, fully fenced area.

PBGVs should get at least half an hour of exercise per day, whether it's several short walks, going out for a hike, running around at the dog park, or playing fetch (or a mix of those). These smart, athletic dogs thrive with a combination of physical activity, enrichment with interactive toys and puzzle feeders, play or training sessions, and outdoor adventures.

Grooming

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a shaggy, rustic breed with a thick, harsh coat. Their coats look soft and fluffy but are rough and wiry to the touch. Despite this, part of their undeniable charm is in their adorably disheveled, au naturel appearance. PBGVs should be brushed and combed at least once a week to prevent their coat from developing mats or tangles. Any trimming on the bottoms of their feet should be done at a minimum when necessary. And unless your PBGV romped and rolled in mud and needs to be washed, they can be bathed once a month. Check their ears weekly for excess wax or debris. Brush their teeth and clip their nails regularly.

Training

According to the PBGVCA, these intelligent dogs can sometimes have their own agenda that may not always match their pet parent's when it comes to training. Meaning, it can take a little extra consistency and patience considering PBGVs can be independent and willful but also eager to please. Always use positive reinforcement methods and provide them with plenty of praise, toys, and treats, and they may begin to consider your training agenda.

PBGVs should be trained early on. After crate training and housebreaking, PBGVs should attend puppy obedience lessons once vaccinated and old enough for proper socialization. The sky is the limit when training this breed, as these dogs can be trained for scent work, rally and agility classes, as well as therapy work and visitation programs.

Common Health Problems

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a generally healthy breed overall, as responsible breeders always strive to maintain the highest breed standards. However, just as with any breed, some potential hereditary health problems can occur. Conditions to be aware of include:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Eye problems
• Patellar luxation
• Steroid-responsive meningitis (neck pain syndrome)
• Hypothyroidism
• Epilepsy
• Heart murmurs

Before purchasing a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, ask the breeder for proof of an ophthalmologist evaluation test, genetic test for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), and any other possible health risks.

Diet and Nutrition

Like all other breeds, PBGVs should be fed high-quality dog food that's complete and balanced for their life stage. As puppies, PBGVs will need to eat at least three meals a day. Once they reach adulthood, they can transition to eating twice a day.

Since this breed is prone to getting overweight, it's always a good idea to keep track of how many calories they're consuming and checking their weight. Also, be sure to limit treats so that they don't exceed more than 10 percent of your pooch's daily calories. Fresh, clean water should be available for your dog at all times.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

The PBGV is a rare breed and is an ever rarer breed to come across at shelters. Although, it's not impossible. If you're considering purchasing a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, you may have to travel or join a waitlist when responsible breeders have pups or adults available. While exact amounts can vary, you can expect a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen to cost a few thousand dollars.

For more information to help you find a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, check out:

• The PBGVCA Member Directory
• AKC Marketplace
• Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Rescue

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Overview

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen can make an excellent addition to the family, as they love being around people and other pets. However, they require lots of physical activity and mental stimulation and can become destructive (and vocal) if bored or anxious.

Pros of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

• Loving and loyal family companion
• Generally healthy with a low-maintenance coat
• Good with other pets

Cons of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

• Needs considerable daily exercise
• Requires a securely enclosed outdoor space
• Can be willful and hard to train
  

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

As with any dog breed, it's always best to do thorough research on the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen to learn more about their care and needs to determine whether they're compatible with your lifestyle. Talk with Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen owners, reputable breeders, rescue groups, and veterinary professionals to learn more.

If you’re interested in breeds that are similar to the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, check out:

• Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
• Basset hound
• Redbone coonhound