Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeens: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen breed

The Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen!

The Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen (or PBGV) gets part of its name from France’s Vendeen region, where it was developed to trail small animals over a tough landscape. Its name, which translates to “small low wire-haired dog”, aptly describes this breed. Its length measures about 50% more than its measured height on average, which gives it a well-proportioned build. Its low build and short legs enable it to easily go through cover in pursuit of game.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
11-14 years

Energy Level:
Moderately high; exploratory

Living Conditions:
Indoors/Outdoors. Needs time outside. Prefers cool weather.

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
Daily 20 minute walk and brief outdoor play.

Breed Group:
Hound

Size:
Medium-Small

Height:
13 to 15 inches

Weight:
31 to 40 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Primarily white, with markings in black, yellow, orange, grizzle or tri-color.

National breed club:
Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen Club of America

Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen Skills

An effective scent hound, the Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen was a popular hunting breed in France, chasing hares and feathered quarry being the primary function. Nowadays, the breed is more popular as a companion, as it tends to be quite charming and fairly easy to train.

Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen Personality

Quite a proactive breed, this dog spends most of its time exploring, and will make its own fun when feeling lonely or bored. Though quite independent, the Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen will demand attention from its owner when it feels ignored. It also tends to be quite friendly towards children, strangers, and other dogs, though it does a lot of barking and digging.

Exercise Needs

The Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen’s exercise requirements are moderate, consisting of regular walks and some boisterous play.

Living Conditions

This breed normally prefers cool weather, though may do fine in most weather conditions. It may be made to live outdoors, provided that there is adequate cover and secure fencing, as it may easily be led astray by its strong instinct for hunting. This breed has been known for its adventurous streak, and for occasionally digging its way to freedom.

Grooming Requirements

To manage shedding of its coat, as well as remove dead hair, weekly brushing and combing, using a comb, pin brush, and mat breaker, is necessary. Baths should be given as necessary, while nail clipping should be done regularly. Also, keep ear canals free of excess wax and hair, and regularly clean the teeth to avoid damage. The feet should be carefully checked for matting and foreign materials, while long hair on the underside of the feet should be trimmed.

Health Issues

Though this breed tends to be quite healthy, problems to watch out for include eye disorders, epilepsy, hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, aseptic meningitis, and skin allergies.

If you liked this dog…

Those who loved the PBGV’s active and playful nature will find the Beagle quite worth checking out. The Beagle has a similar need for attention and temperate living conditions, though it can do without much grooming effort.