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.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Small Dogs With Big Ears
There are many reasons to own a small dog and there is a wide range of amazing breeds to choose from. Many people find the ones with big ears to be particularly adorable. So here are some of the top small dogs with big ears to help you find the canine you’re looking...
Big Dogs With Pointy Ears
One of the most amazing things about dogs is that they come in every shape, size, and color imaginable! If you're looking for a certain physical trait in a dog breed, you'll be sure to find several different breeds that fit the bill. Today, we're going to take a look...
Small Dogs With Pointy Ears
Dogs with pointy ears come in all shapes and sizes. And luckily for fans of smaller-sized pooches, there are plenty to pick from. So we’ve compiled a list of the top small dogs with pointy ears to help you find the perfect pet. Scottish Terrier Scotties are small and...
Are Bull Terriers Stubborn?
Are bull terriers stubborn? To ask such a question would be like asking if the Earth is round, or if the sun is bright. This breed of dog has a strong personality and that is what makes it rather unique. A stubborn bull terrier is also a smart bull terrier. It knows...
Bull Terriers Are Ugly
Some people think that Bull Terriers are ugly, and others think that their egg-shaped head makes them look cute. Whatever your opinion of how Bull Terriers look, an indisputable fact is that the smart Bull Terrier is unique and quite distinct. Why Are Bull Terriers So...
Are Bull Terriers Smart?
Are Bull Terriers smart? Ask anyone who has ever had a Bull Terrier this question, and the resounding and unanimous answer will be a yes. They will also tell you that they are intelligent, funny, energetic, and stubborn. For all these reasons first-time pet owners or...
Dog Breeds That Drool
Heat, thirst, and hunger are the three things that can cause just about any dog to drool. Yet there are certain breeds that slobber much more than others. So before you decide on what type of canine you’d like to purchase, you’ll want to check out the following list...
Low-Energy Dog Breeds
When choosing a pet it is critical that you pick a breed with an energy level that matches your own. For many people, a low-energy dog is the best fit for their lifestyle. If this sounds like you, you’ll want to check out the top low-energy dog breeds listed here....
Lazy Dog Breeds
Not everyone wants a high-energy pet. Many potential owners would actually prefer to have a dog that has a lot less energy. So here are some of the top lazy dog breeds you’ll want to consider that work well with a more laid-back lifestyle. Chow Chow The Chow Chow is...
Brindle Dog Breeds
Brindle is one of the most unique coat color patterns that is only found in certain dog breeds, and a few other animals as well. A brindle coat looks similar in appearance to tiger stripes, but not as bold. That’s because it has streaks of color that are different...
Harlequin Dog Breeds
The harlequin coat pattern is rare in the world of dogs. This unusual pattern is also eye incredibly eye-catching. The following are the only harlequin dog breeds out there. Great Dane The Great Dane is a German breed that was created to hunt wild boar and also served...
Black And Tan Dog Breeds
There are quite a few dog breeds that are black tan in color. But before you decide on one, you’ll want to learn a bit more about the many different types out there. So here are the basics of the top black and tan dog breeds. Rottweiler The Rottweiler is a German...
Small Black And Tan Dog Breeds
Black and tan is arguably one of the most impressive coat colors a dog can have. And quite a few breeds can be found in this eye-catching color. However, not everyone is looking for a large or even medium-sized pet. So here are some of the top small black and tan...
Black Dog Breeds
Let’s face it there are adorable dogs in every coat color. Yet for many people, a black pooch is the cutest of them all. So here are the top black dog breeds you’ll want to check out when considering a new pet. German Shepherd The German Shepherd comes in a handful of...
Red Dog Breeds
White Dog Breeds
Dog breeds come in a range of different colors. Many people consider white to be the most attractive coat color of all. And there are quite a few breeds that have an all-white or predominantly white coat. So here are some of the top white dog breeds you'll want to...
Wrinkly Dog Breeds
Whether big or small, old or young, dogs with wrinkles always look adorable. It’s no wonder that so many people want a wrinkly dog of their own. So here are some of the top wrinkly dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. English Bulldog For many people, the...
Spotted Dog Breeds
Depending on the breed a dog’s coat may come in many different patterns. Yet there is always something special however about a coat with spots. So here are some of the top spotted dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. Bluetick Coonhound The Bluetick Coonhound is...
Stubborn Small Dog Breeds
There are many reasons to choose a small dog. And luckily there are many fabulous breeds to choose from. Yet there are some that can be more headstrong than others. This doesn’t mean they are any less amazing, but it’s something you’ll want to take into consideration....
The Most Stubborn Dog Breeds
All dog breeds are different. And each one has its own unique set of characteristics. For better or worse one trait many breeds have in common is stubbornness. Here are some of the most stubborn dog breeds of them all. Bull Terrier The Bull Terrier is a loving family...