Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, or PBGV, is a happy, shaggy French hound with a big voice and a tail that never stops wagging. It was developed to hunt hare and rabbit in the thick briar of the Vendee region of France.

Origins and appearance

The breed is one of several Basset Griffon Vendeen hounds, originating in western France. They were bred to work in packs in rough, brushy country, with a short-legged build for a slower pace. PBGVs are low, rectangular dogs with a long head, a bearded muzzle, long drop ears and a harsh, tousled coat in white with lemon, orange, tricolor or grizzle markings.

Temperament

PBGVs are cheerful, outgoing and independent. They are friendly with people and other dogs, and often called the happy hound. They love company and may howl when left alone. They are curious and nose-driven, and may ignore commands in favor of a scent. They are generally good with children.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, including walks, sniffing and play. They enjoy hiking, tracking and scent work. Provide secure fencing and a leash outdoors. See recall training guide.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use food rewards and short, fun sessions. House training can take time. Early socialization is easy. Keep recall training in secure areas.

Coat and grooming

The harsh coat needs brushing a few times a week and light trimming or hand-stripping. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Clean the beard and ears, and trim nails. They shed lightly.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as glaucoma
• Patellar luxation
• Back problems

Living with a PBGV

They suit active households with fenced yards. They do well with company and other dogs. They can be noisy.

Behavior and daily management

A PBGV needs daily exercise and company. Provide scent games, chew toys and a routine. Teach quiet cues, and use secure fencing. Do not expect off-leash reliability.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and mischievous. Begin socialization, use a crate and teach basic cues. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming, ear care and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Training notes

PBGVs respond to food and fun. Use scent games, short sessions and plenty of praise. Practice a reliable come in a fenced area, and expect that a nose-driven hound will always be a distraction risk.

Seasons and travel

PBGVs tolerate cool weather but need shade in heat. The beard and coat collect burrs and mud. They travel well when exercised first.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, skipping ear care, trusting recall and leaving the dog alone.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about hip, thyroid and eye tests, and the parents' temperaments.

Is it the right breed for you?

A PBGV suits active, patient owners who want a happy, shaggy hound. It may not suit those wanting quiet or obedient dogs. For a larger cousin, see the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen.

Living with the PBGV voice and coat

The PBGV announces visitors, squirrels and the postal worker with a deep, musical bay that surprises people who expect a small dog to sound small. Training a quiet cue early, and rewarding calm behavior at the door, keeps the volume manageable. The coat deserves attention too: the shaggy eyebrows, beard and leg furnishings collect food, water and burrs, so a quick daily check after walks saves tangles. Most owners keep the coat rustic rather than sculpted, since the breed's charm lies in its tousled look. Trimming around the eyes helps vision and hygiene, and a gentle comb through the beard after meals keeps it fresh.

Family fit

Because PBGVs are sociable and sturdy, they usually enjoy the energy of a busy home, provided children are taught to respect the dog's space and to avoid pulling the ears or tail.

The takeaway

PBGVs are happy, shaggy and nose-driven, and they need exercise, patience and secure fencing.