Origin
France
Lifespan
14–16 years
Weight
11–18 kg
Height
34–38 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
White and Lemon · White and Orange · Tricolor · Grizzle
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
About This Breed
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, or PBGV, is a small, vivacious French scenthound with a rough coat. Originally bred for hunting rabbits in the thick bramble of the Vendée region, they are bold, happy, and full of character.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Origin
| Origin | France |
| Group | Hounds |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 11–18 kg |
| Lifespan | 14–16 years |
| Height | 34–38 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | White and Lemon · White and Orange · Tricolor · Grizzle |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Happy · Outgoing · Independent · Alert |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen originally came from the Vendée region of France, where the breed ran around the countryside hunting small animals such as rabbits. They would work in groups with their people to track down prey, using their sharp nose and fast feet, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Today, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (called “PBGV” for short) is also a family dog with a happy—and competitive—personality. These tenacious hunters were recognized by the AKC in 1990, and a PBGV named Buddy Holly became the first of his breed to win Best in Show at the 2023 Westminster Dog Show.
Care Guide
Bred as hunters, PBGV dogs are energetic and need lots of physical activity and mental stimulation. While they’re relatively petite pups (standing 13–15 inches high and weighing 25–40 pounds), they won’t be happy in a small apartment without frequent opportunities to stretch their legs outside. At home, the PBGV needs lots of attention and affection from his family, according to the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Club of America (PBGVCA). If he doesn’t get it or if he grows bored, he will let you know with his loud bark or by finding (possibly destructive) ways to entertain himself.