Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

FCI Group

6FCI 67

Size

Small

Origin Country

FR

Height

33-38 cm

Weight

14-18 kg

Lifespan

12-14 years

Temperament

PlayfulHigh prey driveIntelligent

Overview

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a unique breed of dog that fascinates with its extraordinary build and character. These dogs come from France and are excellent companions for active families. Their intelligence and liveliness make them ideal playmates for fun and outings. Although small, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen are full of energy and a passion for hunting inherited from their ancestors, who hunted hares and rabbits. Thanks to this heritage, they are not only excellent hunters but also loyal family friends.

The history of this breed dates back many years when small hounds were bred in France to work in difficult terrain. Over time, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen gained a separate standard, distinguishing them from larger bassets. Their strong build and agility make them excellent hunters, but they also attract attention with their appearance. They stand between 34 to 38 cm at the withers, making them one of the smaller representatives of hound breeds. Their coat, although long and rough, is easy to care for, which is an advantage for owners who value convenience.

The temperament of Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is one of their greatest assets. They are brave, energetic, and eager to play, which perfectly suits families leading an active lifestyle. Their sociability makes them get along well with people and other animals. However, they need a lot of exercise, so they feel best in homes with gardens where they can run freely.

In terms of training, these dogs learn quickly but require consistency and patience. Their independence may mean that some commands need to be repeated multiple times. Early training is key to providing them with a good foundation in obedience.

In terms of health, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen enjoy a relatively long life – from 12 to 14 years. However, they can be prone to certain conditions, such as hip dysplasia or eye problems. Therefore, regular veterinary visits and a proper diet are essential.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a breed that requires proper nutrition. Owners should provide them with high-quality food tailored to their age and activity level. Overfeeding should be avoided to prevent obesity. The appearance of these dogs attracts attention, and their intelligent eyes and long ears add to their charm. Regular brushing will keep their coat in good condition.

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a dog with a distinctive appearance that attracts attention with its unique build. Its height at the withers ranges from 34 to 38 cm, making it one of the smaller representatives of hound breeds. This dog has a slightly elongated body, giving it a nimble and elegant look.

The coat of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is hard and rough, which adds to its character. The hair is long, but not excessively so, making grooming this breed relatively easy. The coloration can be very diverse, including colors such as white, blue, red, sandy, or tricolor. It is also common to see coats with spots or patches, which adds charm to these dogs.

The head of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is expressive, with a well-rounded skull and long, drooping ears covered with longer hair. The eyes are medium-sized, dark, and express the dog's intelligence and friendly nature. The nose is large and black, except for some colorations where it may be brown.

The neck is strong and well-muscled, without a dewlap, which gives the dog a dignified appearance. The back is straight, and the chest is deep, indicating a strong body structure. The limbs are strong and proportional to the size of the dog, with well-defined muscles that allow for free movement.

The tail of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is relatively short, set high, and tapering towards the end. When in motion, the dog carries its tail up, which adds to its confidence. The movements of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen are free and full of energy, making the dog appear very active and joyful.

In summary, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a dog that stands out not only for its beauty but also for its character. Its liveliness, intelligence, and friendly disposition make it an excellent companion for any dog lover.

Characteristic Traits

Good with Children
Good with Other Dogs
Tolerates Cold Weather
Tolerates Hot Weather
High Energy Breed
Tends to Bark
Low Drooling
Not Prone to Obesity
Not Prone to Biting
Hunting Dog
Strong Health

Pros

  • Intelligent and easy to train | Great companion for active families | Low maintenance | Excellent hunter

Cons

  • Requires a lot of exercise | Independent nature can make training difficult | May be prone to health issues

Behavioral Ratings

Breed History

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen has a rich history that dates back many years. This breed originated in France, where it was bred as a hunting dog specializing in hunting hares and rabbits. Early representatives of this breed were classified together with larger basset hounds, but over time differences in build and temperament were recognized, leading to the creation of a separate standard for the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen.

The first mentions of this breed date back to the 16th century when these dogs were used by the French aristocracy for hunting. Their small size and agility allowed them to navigate difficult terrain, making them excellent companions for hunters. In 1999, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) as a distinct breed.

Over the years, this breed has gained popularity not only among hunters but also among dog lovers as companion dogs. Their friendly temperament and energy make them excellent companions for families. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen has participated in many dog shows and has won numerous awards for its achievements in hunting.

Due to its history as a hunting dog, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen has retained many characteristics typical of hound breeds. Their strong passion for scenting and hunting instinct make them very active and in need of regular exercise and stimulation. This breed enjoys great recognition worldwide, and their popularity continues to grow, making them one of the most beloved hunting and companion dogs.