
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
FCI Group
6• FCI 67
Size
Small
Origin Country
FR
Height
33-38 cm
Weight
14-18 kg
Lifespan
12-14 years
Temperament
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.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a dog with a unique temperament, making it an excellent companion for families and active individuals. Their brave and energetic nature makes them eager to play and engage in various activities, which makes them ideal dogs for both children and adults.
These dogs are characterized by a strong hunting passion, meaning they have a keen instinct for sniffing and exploring. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen excels in the field, and their curiosity drives them to discover new places. Therefore, it is important for owners to provide appropriate safeguards to prevent uncontrolled escapes.
They are very sociable and enjoy spending time with people and other animals. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen gets along well with other dogs, making them a great addition to families with more than one pet. Their gentle nature allows them to quickly bond with new people and animals, making them excellent family dogs.
Despite their energy, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is also a dog that can be calm and relaxed at home. After intense play, they are happy to rest beside their owners, which makes them ideal dogs for family life. They can easily adapt to their owners' lifestyle, making them versatile companions.
However, it is worth remembering that the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen requires regular physical and mental activity. Dogs that do not get enough exercise can become hyperactive or destructive. Therefore, it is important to provide them with adequate time for play, walks, and mental stimulation.
In summary, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a dog that combines the traits of a hunter and a companion. Their courage, intelligence, and friendly temperament make them excellent dogs for both hunting and family life. Owners should be mindful of these dogs' needs and ensure they receive enough activity and attention to enjoy a healthy and happy life.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a breed that enjoys relatively good health, but like any other breed, it can be prone to certain ailments. The expected lifespan of this breed is between 12 to 14 years, which is typical for medium-sized dogs.
In the case of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, one of the most common health issues is hip dysplasia. This genetic condition affects the development of the joints and can lead to pain and limited mobility. It is important for owners to ensure regular veterinary check-ups, which can help in the early detection of potential problems.
Another significant health concern that may affect this breed is eye problems, such as cataracts or corneal issues. Heart diseases can also occur, although they are rarer. It is important to pay attention to any symptoms, such as excessive tearing, squinting, or changes in the dog's behavior, which may indicate health problems.
A proper diet and regular physical activity are crucial for maintaining the health of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. These dogs tend to become obese if their diet is not controlled, which can lead to further health complications. It is also advisable to ensure regular visits to the veterinarian and vaccinations to provide the dog with a long and healthy life.
The grooming of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is relatively simple, making this breed attractive to many dog owners. Their coat is tough and rough and does not require much attention, which means that regular brushing is sufficient to keep it in good condition.
Brushing should be done at least once a week to remove dead hair and minimize shedding. During the spring and autumn, when the dog is shedding, brushing may need to be more intensive – more frequent grooming sessions are recommended. It is also important to pay attention to the ears, which can accumulate dirt and moisture. Regularly checking and cleaning the ears will help prevent infections.
Baths should only be given when necessary to avoid stripping the natural oils from the dog's skin. Using appropriate dog shampoos is crucial to avoid irritating their sensitive skin. After bathing, it is advisable to thoroughly dry the dog, especially around the ears and under the armpits, to prevent the development of bacteria and fungi.
Taking care of the teeth is also an important aspect of grooming. Regular tooth brushing will help prevent dental problems such as tartar buildup and gum disease. Owners should also pay attention to the nails, which should be trimmed regularly to ensure the dog’s comfort while walking.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a breed that requires regular physical activity to maintain health and well-being. Due to its hunting background, these dogs have a lot of energy and need daily walks and playtime to satisfy their exercise needs.
It is recommended that the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen has at least 60 minutes of intense activity each day. This can include long walks, running, or playing in the garden. This breed loves to explore new areas, so it's a good idea to take them on trips to the forest or meadows where they can run freely and sniff around.
It is also beneficial to engage the dog in various sports – canicross, agility, or obedience. These types of activities not only help maintain physical fitness but also strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is also very sociable, so shared activities with other dogs can bring it a lot of joy.
It is important not to forget to cool the dog down after intense exertion, especially on hot summer days when temperatures reach high values. Regular hydration and rest are crucial for the dog's health. Avoiding excessive exertion on hot days is necessary to prevent overheating.
Maintaining the physical activity of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is essential for its mental and physical health. A dog that does not get enough exercise may become hyperactive or destructive, so it is important to provide it with appropriate amounts of activity every day.
The training of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a process that requires patience and consistency, but with the right approach, it can be very rewarding. Dogs of this breed are intelligent and learn quickly; however, their independent nature may sometimes make them resistant to commands.
It is recommended to start training as early as possible, preferably during the puppy stage. Early socialization and basic commands such as sit, lie down, or come should be introduced in a fun and positive way. Using rewards, such as treats or praise, is an effective motivational method that encourages the dog to cooperate.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen responds well to various forms of training, including positive training and reward-based techniques. It is important to avoid punishing the dog, as this can lead to fear and reluctance to learn. This breed values time spent with its owner, so joint training sessions can be enjoyable for the dog.
Regular mental exercises are also essential for this breed. Scent games, play with interactive toys, or even obedience classes will help keep the dog in good mental condition.
Some dogs may have a tendency towards dominance, so it is important for the owner to be firm but not aggressive. Establishing rules and boundaries is essential for the dog to understand what is expected of it. Training should be systematic, and every progress should be rewarded, which further motivates the dog to continue learning.
It is also beneficial to include other dogs in training so that the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen learns to interact with other animals and develops its social skills. Joint training with other dogs can also help build confidence and cooperation skills.
In summary, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a dog that requires consistent yet understanding training. With the right approach and dedication, excellent results in learning can be achieved, resulting in a wonderful bond between the dog and its owner.
Nutrition for the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is crucial for its health and well-being. Dogs of this breed tend to gain weight, so it is important that their diet is properly balanced and tailored to their activity level.
Owners should choose high-quality foods that contain the appropriate nutrients, such as proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. A good option is to select food designed for active dogs to ensure they receive the right amount of energy.
It is important that meals are regular and served at consistent times of the day. Typically, two meals a day are recommended, which should be adjusted according to the size and weight of the dog. The appropriate amount of food is crucial to avoid obesity, which can lead to many health problems.
In addition to dry food, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen can also receive fresh fruits and vegetables as a healthy snack. However, it is essential to avoid products that may be toxic to dogs, such as onions, garlic, or grapes.
Water should always be available, and owners should ensure that the dog is properly hydrated, especially after intense physical activity. It is also advisable to avoid giving the dog human food, which can be unhealthy and lead to digestive issues.
In summary, the diet of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen should be balanced, tailored to the activity level, and regular. Proper nutrition will help maintain health and well-being for many years, which is essential for a happy life for the dog.
Characteristic Traits
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.



