Breed History:

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGV) is a small French scent hound developed in the Vendée region of western France. Its name translates to "small, low, rough-coated dog of the Vendée." It was selectively bred from the larger Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen to create a more compact, agile dog suited for hunting small game such as rabbit and hare through thick brush and rough terrain.

While the PBGV's rough-coated ancestors date back centuries, the breed standard was formally developed in the 19th and 20th centuries, with Paul Dezamy playing a key role in establishing its unique size and proportions. The PBGV was officially recognised as a separate breed in the 1950s by the French Kennel Club and later by the AKC in 1991.

Despite its working roots, the PBGV is also known for its cheerful personality and clownish charm, making it popular as a companion dog.

Height: 33-38 cm

Weight: 13-20 kg

Size: Small to Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The PBGV is a short-legged, strongly built hound with a shaggy, rough coat and an overall rustic appearance. It has a distinctive head, framed by bushy eyebrows, a mustache, and a beard, giving it a lively, alert expression.

Its coat is harsh, medium-length, and tousled, providing protection during field work. Acceptable coat colors include white with black, orange, lemon, or grizzle markings. The breed carries its tail upright in a saber shape, and its gait is free, effortless, and springy—important for covering ground in the hunt.

Breed Type – Scent Hound:

Bred to track rabbits and small game, the PBGV has a keen nose, sharp focus, and boundless energy. Its independent spirit and tenacity are matched by a cheerful, social personality, making it popular with hunters and families alike.

While small in size, the PBGV is a true working dog, bred for endurance and performance in rugged terrain.

Training:

The PBGV is smart, lively, and a little stubborn:

• Responds well to positive, reward-based training

• Needs early socialization and structured routines

• Can be distracted by scents—recall may be unreliable without consistent work

• Learns quickly but can become bored with repetition

• Enjoys agility, nose work, and scent games

This breed thrives when training is fun and engaging rather than rigid or repetitive.

Health & Care:

A generally healthy and resilient breed, but be aware of:

• Ear infections (due to pendulous, hairy ears)

• Hip dysplasia (less common but possible)

• Epilepsy (in some lines)

• Eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts (rare)

• Hypothyroidism (occasionally reported)

Regular veterinary checkups, good diet, and ear maintenance help ensure a healthy life.

Living Conditions:

Adaptable and social:

• Can thrive in apartments or houses, provided it gets enough exercise

• Needs a secure yard—will follow a scent if given the chance

• Gets along well with children, other dogs, and even cats (if raised together)

• May be vocal—not ideal for noise-sensitive homes

• Loves company and does poorly in isolation

The PBGV is best suited for active families or individuals who enjoy time outdoors.

Exercise:

High energy for a small dog:

• Requires at least an hour of exercise daily

• Loves long walks, playtime, and off-leash runs in secure areas

• Strong prey drive—keep leashed unless fenced

• Mental enrichment (like puzzle toys or tracking) is essential

• Without proper stimulation, may become noisy or mischievous

This is a stamina-rich hound, not a lapdog.

Grooming:

Moderate grooming needs:

• Brush 2–3 times a week to prevent matting

• Hand-stripping or light trimming helps maintain coat texture (optional)

• Clean ears weekly to prevent infection

• Trim nails regularly and maintain dental hygiene

Sheds moderately, especially during seasonal changes.

Advantages:

• Outgoing, friendly, and humorous personality

• Adaptable to many home types

• Great with kids and other pets

• Strong scenting ability and natural hunting drive

• Rare, charming, and full of character

• Generally healthy and long-lived

Disadvantages:

• Strong prey drive—may chase small animals

• Can be vocal and prone to baying

• Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation

• Grooming (especially ears) must not be neglected

• Independent streak can challenge obedience

• May become bored or destructive if under-stimulated