The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGV for short) is the smallest of four breeds of rough-coated French hounds. His history can be traced back to the 16th century as a popular scent hound developed to hunt small game over rough and difficult terrain. His name in French reveals much about him: "petit" — small, "basset" — low to the ground, "griffon" — rough-coated, and Vendéen being the area in France where the breed originated.
He is an active, alert, curious, happy, independent yet eager to please dog. He is very intelligent, affectionate, and requires human companionship. This is a busy hunting hound who requires lots of outdoor exercise and today, PBGVs are seen successfully competing in Obedience, Tracking, Agility as well as the show ring. They have also been used to work as Therapy dogs and Search and Rescue Dogs.
The PBGV coat is rough, harsh to the touch and moderately long. He wears a beard, moustache and long eyebrows giving him a tousled appearance. His colouring is white with any combination of lemon, orange, black, tri-colour or grizzle markings.
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Health Issues:
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is known as a very healthy breed with an average life span of 14 years or more. However, like all breeds of dogs, they are subject to some health problems. Some of the conditions seen in the breed include: Neck Pain Syndrome, Hip Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, Heart Murmurs, and some Eye Diseases.
If you are considering the adoption of a PBGV puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards
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AKC PETIT BASSET GRIFFON VENDEEN VIDEO
23 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
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Grooming Information:
The PBGV's coat requires weekly brushing to remove loose and dead hair and to help control shedding. Nails should be clipped regularly and the long hair on the bottom of the feet should be kept trimmed. Ears must be kept free of excess hair and wax and teeth should be brushed regularly.
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your PBGV, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
