The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Petite Basset Griffon Vendeen originated in France and were named for the county they hunted their prey within, the La Vendee. They are a mixture of the Italian Hound and the St. Hubert. This breed was specifically bred to hunt rabbit and is most commonly used in France but its popularity is growing in the United States.
The PBGV (Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen) is a short, low-set, shaggy, scent hound. This messy looking dog and has a body that is one and a half times longer that it is high. They were inducted into the AKC’s Hound category in 1991 making them a newcomer to the club.
This little dog is a mischievously clever breed and is often described as being too smart for their own good. When they become bored, they will look for things to do to keep them occupied, whether that be digging or trying to make a getaway from the house. This breed has a short attention span, so a large selection of toys will be a must.Breed Group
Hound
Size
Males: 13-15 inches high
Females: 13-15 inches high
Weight
Males: 31-40 lbs
Females: 31-40 lbs
Color(s)
This breed is all white but with a mixture of either yellow, tri-colour, black, orange or light brown. These can be patches or just random markings all over the PBGV’s body.
Coat
The PBGV has a messy, wire-like, just rolled out of bed look to their coat. It is double layered, with the under coat being softer and thick. The top coat is a harder texture that feels rough to the touch. This is perfect for the PBGV because they need to be kept warm and dry while they hunt in the colder temperatures.
Life Expectancy
About 14 years.
Personality
The PBGV is a joyous, happy-go-lucky little dog that loves to explore his world. They are known for being curious and independent yet are attention hounds. This breed can not get enough affection from their owners as they love to be the center of attention and enjoy being around their family at all times.
The PBGV likes to hear their own voice and will use it often. Intelligent, perceptive and bright, this dog will be very easy to train as long as their owner is consistent. It was rumored that they were more difficult to teach obedience to but in comparison, the PBGV is actually quite easy.
Care
This breed has a moderately long coat which will need to be brushed about once or twice per week. Their coat is wiry and can mat easily so regular grooming is essential. Special attention should be brought to their paws as the hair can pick up foreign materials which will cause them pain if this is not removed. They are prone to some eye problems such as retinal folds or glaucoma. Epilepsy, seizures, skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism are also potentials for this breed to genetically inherit.
Training
The PBGV is considered an easier dog to train. Positive and firm training will be needed but consistency is the key. If these dogs are trained every day in short sessions they will understand and be able to act out commands much quicker. They are a motivated breed who want to make their owner happy but can be stubborn at times because as a hound they are easily distracted with various scents to explore!
Activity
The PBGV will need regular walks at least once a day. It is suggested that when walking, to always use a leash as they can catch a scent and want to follow it or see a small animal and chase it. This breed will do well in an apartment as long as they get their daily exercise. A back yard would be great so they can run around outside but beware as they are known to be escape artists!