Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, known as the PBGV, is a cheerful, outgoing French scenthound with a rough coat and an irrepressible zest for life.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
undefinedAppearance
undefinedIs a Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Right for You?
undefinedLiving with a Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
PBGVs are happy, sociable dogs who get on with everyone - people, children, dogs and usually cats. They are extroverts who love company and can suffer from separation anxiety. They are vocal and will bark and bay, which may concern neighbours. They are escape artists who can dig under or climb over fences.
Training Tips
- Use positive methods with high-value food rewards
- Accept their independent hound nature
- Start recall training early though perfection is unlikely
- Secure garden fencing and check regularly for escape routes
- Channel their scenting ability with tracking activities
Temperament
Happy, extrovert and independent. PBGVs are described as having a permanent smile. They are confident, curious dogs who approach life with enthusiasm. They are affectionate and love company. Their independent hound nature means they follow their nose first and listen to commands second.
Exercise Needs
About 45-60 minutes of exercise daily. They are active dogs who enjoy exploring and following scents. They have good stamina for their size. Walks should include plenty of sniffing time. They enjoy tracking activities and will happily walk for hours in the countryside.
Grooming
The rough coat needs brushing two to three times per week. Hand-stripping twice a year maintains coat texture. The coat should not be clipped. Ears need regular checking as they are prone to infection. The beard needs regular cleaning. They are moderate shedders.
Health
Generally healthy and long-lived. Prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, epilepsy and a specific eye condition called persistent pupillary membranes. Some lines carry hypothyroidism. They are remarkably robust for their size. Average lifespan 14-16 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does PBGV stand for?
Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen - Petit means small, Basset means low-set, Griffon means wire-haired, and Vendeen refers to the region in western France where the breed originated. The name perfectly describes the dog: a small, low, wire-haired hound from the Vendee.
Do PBGVs bark a lot?
Yes, they are vocal dogs. They were bred to bay while following a scent trail so the hunter could locate them. This instinct remains strong. They will bark at visitors, interesting smells and sometimes apparently nothing. Training can help manage it but some vocalisation is part of their character.
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