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Characteristics, History, and Health
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, often referred to as the PBGV or Petit, is a small, sturdy, robust breed that is part of the hound group, recognized for its energetic spirit and friendly personality. Its distinctive rough, double coat and long, bushy eyebrows and beard lend it a unique, rustic appearance. Originating in the Vendée region of western France, the breed's name itself paints a clear picture: Petit (small), Basset (low), Griffon (rough-coated), Vendéen (from Vendée). The PBGV's history dates back several centuries, with these dogs initially bred for hunting rabbits and small game in the rough and brambly terrain of the Vendée region. As scent hounds, they used their keen sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound, and their robust, agile bodies to excel in this role. The breed became officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1954. The American Kennel Club (AKC) classified the breed under the Hound Group in 1990.
Main Info
- Origin
- France
- Alternate Names
- Petit, Petite Basset, Griff, Roughie
- Life Expectancy
- 14-16 years
- Average Male Height
- 13-15 inches
- Average Female Height
- 13-15 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 25-40 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 25-40 pounds
- Coat Length
- Long
- Coat Type
- Double, Rough
- Coat Colors
- Black & Tan, Fawn, White & Black, White & Gray, White & Lemon, White & Orange, White Black & Tan, White & Grizzle, White & Sable, Tri-color
- Coat Pattern
- Tan Markings, White Spotting
Genetic Predispositions and Health
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen can suffer from degenerative myelopathy and progressive rod-cone degeneration. A specific hereditary condition for which they should be tested is Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia Type I. As for all breeds, genetic screening for hereditary conditions is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.
Personality and Behavior
Known for their friendly and outgoing nature, PBGVs make excellent family pets. They are sociable, intelligent, and have a great sense of humor, often described as "happy and enthusiastic." Although generally good with children and other animals, they are a hunting breed at heart. Thus, they have a strong prey drive and love to chase, dig, and investigate everything. It is recommended to provide them with plenty of physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy and health.
Fun Facts
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen has a remarkable sense of smell, only surpassed by the Bloodhound.
Despite their small size, they are quite hardy and were originally bred to withstand a full day of hunting in tough terrain.
They are known for their loud, distinctive howl, which they used historically to alert their human hunting companions to their location in the thick underbrush.
The breed has a twin, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, which is larger but shares many of the same traits.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/petit-basset-griffon-vendeen/
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/petit-basset-griffon-vendeen https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/PETIT-BASSET-GRIFFON-VENDEEN-67.html https://www.ukcdogs.com/petit-basset-griffon-vendeen
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