Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Facts

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a small dog with a big name and an even bigger heart. These dogs were bred to hunt rabbits, but also make energetic and loving companions. Read on to find out more amazing Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen facts and information!

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Name Perfectly Describes Them

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (or PBGV for short) may have a long name, but it’s a perfect description of the breed! Petit is the French word for small, Basset means standing low to the ground, Griffon refers to having a rough coat, and Vendéen is a reference to the location where the breed originated from!

They Have A Big Bark

These dogs may be small, but they’re known for having a distinctive, loud bark. Like other basset breeds, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen uses its ringing, deep bark to communicate its location to the hunters. This is important for hunting dogs, since they often stray quite far from their owners during a chase. This breed is also very vocal at home, using its loud voice to let its owners know when they want things.

They Have A Royal Heritage

One of the most interesting Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen history facts is that they were once kept by a King! A whole group of Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens were the favorite dogs of King Louis XII. In fact, before the breed was known as the PBGV, they were originally called “Chiens Blancs du Roi,” which, in English, translates to “The King’s white dogs.”

The PBGV’s Rough Coat Serves An Important Purpose

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen has a charming wiry, rugged coat. However, it’s not just for appearance! These dogs were bred to hunt rabbits in coastal France, which is notorious for prickly, dense undergrowth and lots of rocks. The PBGV’s rough coat is designed to protect the dog from thorns and other sharp objects while hunting.

They’re The Smaller Cousin Of The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is closely related to the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen. In fact, the two were originally considered the same breed with two different size standards. While the Petit would be used to hunt small game, namely rabbits, the Grand was used for large game like Roe deer (although it can hunt game of all sizes). Eventually, however, the breeds were separated into two different standards.

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Has An Amazing Sense Of Smell

Another fun fact about the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is that they are scenthounds, meaning that their method of hunting relies strongly on smell. Their short legs are low to the ground, which makes it easier for them to sniff and follow a trail. Even today, their amazing sense of smell means they make popular hunting companions in France and even in the United States.

They’re Famous For Being Happy

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is famous for its energetic and optimistic nature. In fact, the PBGV is so well-known for being a happy dog that they’ve even earned the nickname “The Happy Breed.” They’re constantly wagging their tails and begging to play!

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Needs Plenty Of Enrichment

The PBGV is a very playful and intelligent dog. They need a lot of stimulation like daily exercise and plenty of toys to keep them occupied. If this dog breed doesn’t get enough enrichment, they can begin partaking in destructive behaviors like digging or chewing up couches.

They Have A High Prey Drive

Like all hunting dogs, these short-legged hounds have a high prey drive. This means that the sight or smell of any small animal is enough to make your PBGV start chasing. These dogs need to be kept in fenced-in yards to avoid wandering, and should be kept on a leash at all times during walks and runs. They also aren’t well suited to homes with small pets such as mice, rabbits, or birds.

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Loves Children

One of the cutest Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen facts is that these dogs are amazing with children. This French breed is charming and energetic with just about anyone, but they have a special side for kids. These energetic dogs love to play with children, but can also be a little rambunctious. They should be supervised around small children to ensure your PBGV doesn’t accidentally get too rough.

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