The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a short little dog with a long hairy body and a carefree attitude. The "PBGV" as the breed is known by the shortened nickname, is a member of a group of four varieties of scent hounds called Griffons which were developed in the area of Vendee in southern France. The breed was introduced into the United States in 1991, being admitted into the Hound Group at A.K.C. shows. He made an instant hit with his unique long and low basset appearance but covered with rough and unruly hair. In Canada and Great Britain they had made their appearance years before and were known as "roughies". This is a term that befits their appearance, the coat is quite harsh and stiff. The eyes have a distinctive "shelf" of hair sticking out above them making eyebrows, protecting the eyes without hiding them. The muzzle is covered with longer hair and the lips also, making a "beard" and mustache. The coat is about two to four inches long all over and it is strictly against the standard of the breed to trim or change the lines of the dog through grooming when entered at A.K.C. shows.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen was bred to have an extremely tough and durable coat, thus providing a good protection for him from the brambles and thistles in the wilds of his native country. The coat should be tousled in appearance and quite wiry. The dog's body is long and low to the ground, rather like that of a Dachshund, so that he can make his way into thickets and heavily brushy areas to follow his prey. The height of the dog at a year of age, according to the standard required by the American Kennel Club, should be not above 15 inches nor under 13 inches at the withers. The colors of the coat should be a base of White with any combination of lemon, orange, black, sable, tricolor or grizzle markings, so that he can be easily distinguished when out in the field.
The PBGV is definitely first and foremost a hunting dog and has the inherent nature of the hunter, alert and inquisitive with a certain amount of confidence and independence. He is easily trainable and willing to please, happy to go on the hunt or go on a walk and has made a "hit" in the United States as a pet for apartment or country living. He is not by nature aggressive to other dogs and will fit in easily into a household with other dogs. Also his personality is easy going and he will take a fair amount of mauling from children in a family with happiness and affection. He does need plenty of exercise and a good long walk daily if he is an urban dweller keeps him content and prevent obesity. This is a dog that has a strong hunting instinct however and certainly needs to be kept within a fenced in area.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is happy, energetic smaller dog that makes a great watch dog. They can be kept in an apartment as long as they can be walked for exercise. A properly fenced in yard is best for exercise but they are diggers and known as escape artists. Never leave them off the leash as they will take off after an interesting scent. They generally like other animals and will socialize with them. They also like children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is 13 to 15 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 31 to 40 pounds.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is no exception. Although considered a healthy breed, be on the look out for ear problems, Aseptic meningitis and hereditary eye problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen has a long rough, harsh to the touch coat with a thick, short under coat. They should be brushed at least weekly. Long hair at the bottom of feet may need to be trimmed.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her nails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Life Span
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen can live between 10 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
History
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen come from the La Vendee district of France. They are a scent hound and were bred for hunting rabbits. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1991.
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