Originating in France during the 16th century, this hound of ancient descent was developed to hunt small game by scent. They were highly capable of hunting in any type of weather as well as over any type of terrain. They are the smallest of the four hound breeds from France. Today, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is relatively new to the United States and is steadily gaining in popularity.
A compact, hardy, vivacious, and bold breed, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is also active, alert, and robust. They consistently seek adventure and are highly rambunctious, extroverted, and independent. This friendly breed displays great skill in their hunting and also makes a lovely companion.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is always busy and lively. They thrive and demand human companionship and attention. They are very intelligent, charming, and can be quite willful. This breed will typically get along with other dogs, but is not recommended for homes with cats or other household pets they will view as prey. They do well with children and are somewhat friendly to strangers. They do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. If they become lonely or bored they will become destructive.
This breed requires weekly brushing to remove loose and dead hair. Bathing or dry shampooing should be done when necessary. The ears and teeth should be checked and cleaned on a consistent basis. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is prone to eye abnormalities, aseptic meningitis, epilepsy, hip and elbow dysplasia, patella luxation, hypothyroidism, and food and skin allergies.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a double coat breed. The outer coat is harsh, wiry, naturally un-kept in appearance, and provides protection when hunting in thick brush. The under coat is soft, dense, and provides warmth. The hair is longer over the eyes and on the muzzle, which forms bushy eyebrows and a distinctive moustache and beard. The color of the coat is white and typically has markings in such colors as yellow, orange, grizzle, or tri-color. This breed sheds little to no hair.
With their intelligence and desire to please the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is relatively easy to train. However, it is important they learn they are not the master. Early socialization and basic obedience are recommended. Training should be done with firmness, fairness, patience, repetition, consistency, and reward.
Highly energetic, this breed needs daily vigorous exercise in an outdoor environment. They enjoy family play sessions as well as family activities in which they are included. It is vitally important to remember that the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a scent hound. Therefore, they must never be let off lead when walking or jogging. Yards must be securely fenced and they must be closely monitored and supervised as they are prone to digging and are exceedingly adept at escaping. They will do okay in an apartment provided they are sufficiently exercised.
25-35 lbs
13-15 inches
White with any combination of lemon, orange, tricolor, or grizzle markings
| Size: |
| Grooming Needs: |
| Exercise Needs: |
| Good With Dogs: |
| Watchdog Ability: |