Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment14–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Patellar luxation · Epilepsy

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a tousled little French scent hound whose name describes it exactly — small (petit), low (basset), wiry-coated (griffon), from the Vendée — bred to hunt rabbit through rough brush. Its breed motto is 'a happy breed', and it lives up to it: cheerful, extroverted, playful and sociable, it is an affectionate family companion that gets on well with children and other dogs. But it is a true scent hound in a small package: energetic, curious, independent and vocal, with a strong nose and prey drive, so it needs daily exercise, a securely fenced yard (it will follow a scent and dig), and patient, positive, food-motivated training, since it can be cheerfully stubborn. The rough, harsh double coat needs regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping to prevent matting and keep its tousled texture. Health-wise the PBGV is generally a hardy, long-lived breed, but buy from a reputable breeder and be aware of hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, eye conditions, epilepsy, and ear infections from the drop ears. Give a PBGV plenty of exercise, scent games, secure containment and patient training, keep the ears clean, and this jolly, happy little hound will be a devoted companion for fourteen to sixteen years.

• How much exercise does a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen live?

  14–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Patellar luxation, Epilepsy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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