The Petit Basset Griffon Vandéen, also known as PBGV, is an intelligent and energetic dog breed that is perfect for kids. It is a small but muscular hound that is known for its keen sense of smell and love for hunting.

The breed was originally developed in France for hunting small game, but its friendly and loyal personality has made it an excellent pet for families.

1. History and Origin

The history of the PBGV can be traced back to France, where it was developed in the 16th century for hunting hares and rabbits. The breed was initially bred as a short-legged version of the Grand Basset Griffon Vandéen.

However, as hunting techniques evolved, the PBGV was developed to become a specialist in smaller game hunting, such as rabbits and hares. In the 19th century, the breed almost went extinct as hunting became less popular in France.

However, a group of dedicated breeders worked to revive the breed by crossbreeding it with other breeds, including the Basset Hound, the Wirehaired Italian Segugio and the Artois Hound. The PBGV was finally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1991, and it is now a popular breed in many countries around the world.

2. Appearance

The PBGV is a small to medium-sized dog breed, weighing between 25 to 40 pounds and standing at a height of 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder. It has a rough, shaggy coat that is usually white with black or tan markings.

Its ears are long and droopy, and its tail is long and bushy. Despite its small size, the PBGV is a muscular and robust breed that can run and jump with ease. Its strong legs and sturdy body allow it to maneuver through rough terrain and dense underbrush with ease, making it an excellent hunting dog.

3. Temperament

The PBGV is a friendly and outgoing breed that loves to be around people. It is known for its playful and energetic personality, and it gets along well with children and other pets.

It is also known for its intelligence and ability to learn quickly, which makes it an excellent choice for families with kids. However, the PBGV can have a stubborn streak, and it needs a firm and consistent hand in training. It is also a hunting dog at heart, and it has a strong prey drive, which means that it can chase after smaller animals if not properly trained.

4. Exercise and Training

The PBGV is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. It needs at least one hour of exercise per day, which can include walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard.

It also enjoys activities such as hiking, swimming, and agility training. Training a PBGV requires patience and consistency. It responds well to positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, but it can become bored easily, so training sessions should be short and varied. It is essential to start training a PBGV from an early age to prevent bad habits from forming.

5. Health

The PBGV is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, it is prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health problems that can affect the PBGV include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems.

Regular visits to the vet can help prevent or catch these health problems early on. The PBGV has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, and with proper care and nutrition, it can live a long and healthy life.

6. Grooming

The PBGV has a rough, shaggy coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. It needs to be brushed weekly to remove any loose hair and prevent matting.

It also needs to be bathed occasionally to keep its coat clean and healthy. Its long, floppy ears are also prone to infections, so they should be checked and cleaned regularly. Its nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth, which can cause discomfort and pain.

7. Conclusion

The PBGV is an intelligent and energetic dog breed that is perfect for kids and families. It is a friendly and outgoing breed that loves to be around people.

With proper training, exercise, and nutrition, it can live a long and healthy life and bring joy and companionship to its owner.