A correctly proportioned Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is about 50 percent longer than tall, enabling the dog to push through dense thickets. This breed has strong bone and surprising nimbleness. The gait is free, giving the appearance of a dog that is capable of a full day in the field. The tousled appearance results in part from the rough coat, with long facial furnishings. This, in combination with the thick shorter undercoat, gives the PBGV ample protection against brambles and the elements. The dog's alert and friendly expression reflects this breed's true nature. Ready to see what dogs fit you best? Take our short quiz to find out! Breed Image Breed Weight 25-35 lb Breed Height 13-15" Similar Breeds English Foxhound Dogs & Puppies Greyhound Dogs & Puppies Harrier Dogs & Puppies American Foxhound Dogs & Puppies Basenji Dogs & Puppies Basset Hound Dogs & Puppies Beagle Dogs & Puppies Black and Tan Coonhound Dogs & Puppies Dachshund Dogs & Puppies Otterhound Dogs & Puppies Miniature Dachshund Dogs & Puppies Related Content Dog Grooming Tips – Bathing, Brushing, & More How to Teach a Dog Tricks Temperament Despite its appearance, the PBGV is not a Basset Hound in a wire coat. It is a merry, inquisitive, tough, busy dog, always on the lookout for excitement and fun. This dog loves to sniff, explore, trail, and dig. Amiable and playful, the PBGV is good with children, other dogs, and most pets, and is friendly toward strangers. The breed is stubborn and independent, and tends to dig and bark. Upkeep Not content to lie around, this dog's exercise requirements can be easily fulfilled, however, by a good walk on leash or a vigorous romp in the yard. The coat needs weekly brushing and occasional tidying of straggling hairs. Health Major concerns: none Minor concerns: otitis externa, CHD, PPM, some retinal and corneal conditions Occasionally seen: meningitis, patellar luxation, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, intervertebral disk disease Suggested tests: hip, eye Life span: 11–14 years History The PBGV, as it is affectionately known, is an ancient breed with roots in sixteenth-century Europe. The long French name provides an accurate description of the breed: Petit (small) Basset (low) Griffon (rough-coated) Vendéen (its area of origin in France). This area, on the west coast of France, is filled with thick brambles, underbrush, and rocky terrain, requiring a dog that had a coat that could withstand thorns and brambles, short legs that could enable the dog to wind his way through the underbrush in pursuit of rabbits, but nimbleness to run over rocks and logs without tiring. Thus, the PBGV is more than a wirecoated Basset Hound, and more than a dwarf Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (a breed that resembles a slightly taller PBGV), even though closely related to both breeds. In England in the mid 1800s, the PBGV was shown with the Basset Hound as a wire-coated variety, but the PBGV is a longer legged, more nimble hound. In France, the Griffon Vendéen was considered to be one breed with two sizes until the 1950s. The AKC recognized the PBGV in 1990, and since then the PBGV has attracted many new admirers because of its merry disposition and tousled carefree appearance. Breed Family Scenthound Breed Type Hound Energy Level 4 Playfulness 4 Friendliness to Dogs 4 Friendliness to Strangers 4 Heat Sensitivity 4 Exercise Requirements 3 Affection Level 5 Friendliness to Other Pets 2 Watchfulness 1 Grooming Requirements 2 Vocality 4 Ease of Training 1 Alternative Names Little Griffon Vendeen Basset Disclaimer Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Breed Size Medium Plural Name Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens Area of Origin France Date of Origin 1700s Species Dog or Puppy
