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!
Italian Dog Breeds
Welcome to our exploration of dog breeds from Italy, a land renowned for its diverse and captivating canine companions. Our Italian dog breeds list offers a glimpse into the rich heritage and unique characteristics of each breed, showcasing the depth and variety of...
French Dog Breeds
From elegant hunters to loyal guardians, France's canine companions offer a fascinating blend of history, function, and charm. Discover the diverse world of dog breeds from France with our comprehensive French dog breeds list. Delve into the tales and traditions that...
Livestock Guardian Dog Breeds
The livestock guardian dog breeds stand out for their remarkable blend of strength, loyalty, and protective instincts. This guide offers a closer look at these dedicated defenders, highlighting their history, characteristics, and the essential roles they play in...
Russian Dog Breeds
Embarking on an exploration of canines? Our Russian dog breeds list offers a deep dive into the diverse and storied world of Russia's beloved companions. From snowy terrains to bustling urban centers, discover the dogs that have shaped and been shaped by Russian...
Spitz Dog Breeds
Wirehaired Dog Breeds
Dog coats come in several different textures. Wirehaired dog breeds have stiff and harsh hair that stands away from their bodies. The wire-like texture of these canines makes them not only unique to the touch but also in appearance. So here are some of the top dog...
Merle Dog Breeds
Merle dog breeds have some of the most striking coats in all of “dogdom”. These stunning canines typically have a speckled or mottled appearance and often light-colored eyes that make them look even more unique. So here are some of the top dog breeds with merle coats...
Australian Dog Breeds
Australian dog breeds range from herders to lapdogs, and the country even has its very own native wild dog, the Dingo! All of these canines are ideally suited for life and work in the Land Down Under. That being said, here are all the dog breeds from Australia and...
Fawn-Colored Dogs
Bulldog Breeds List
You might be surprised to learn that there are actually quite a few bulldog dog breeds. With their typically stocky appearance, short snouts, and jowls, these canines are some of the most beloved dogs on the planet. And with the help of the following bulldog breeds...
Sighthound Breeds
The sighthound breeds are a unique group of canines created to rundown various types of game. These athletes have features such as slender bodies, light bones, deep chests, and long heads which help them to perform their specific purpose as efficiently as possible....
Canadian Dog Breeds
While there are only four of them, you won’t find a hardier bunch than the Canadian dog breeds. Whether it was for work in the frigid rivers, icy coastal waters, or deep snow, each of these canines was created to perform vital tasks for their Canadian masters. So here...
Welsh Dog Breeds
From dispatchers of vermin to herders, and hunters the Welsh dog breeds all come from hardworking backgrounds. For those who love energetic pooches, these seven canines are sure not to disappoint. So here is everything you’ll want to know about the dog breeds from...
Belgian Dog Breeds
All Belgian dog breeds originally come from a working background. From small to large and from ratters to herders these canines are of course unique. So read on to find out everything you’ll want to know about the dog breeds from Belgium. Groenendael (Belgian...
Pinscher Breeds
The Pinscher breeds are a type, or family of dogs, that originally functioned as ratters, guardians, and working farm dogs. The name pinscher translates from German as to pinch or catch and is believed to describe how the dogs work when killing rodents and other...
The Best Poodle Mixes
There’s no doubt about it, in recent years Poodle mixes have become some of the most popular dogs on the planet. With so many different mixes to choose from you’ll want to know the basics of the top options out there. So here are some of the best poodle mixes and what...
Bergamasco Sheepdog Facts And Information
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a rare dog breed from the Italian Alps. It’s most famous for its unusual coat that looks similar in appearance to dreadlocks. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this special canine so here are some of the top Bergamasco Sheepdog facts...
Rare Dog Breeds
For various reasons and circumstances, certain dog breeds are much less common than others. Unfortunately, that means these special dogs are often overlooked. However, with the following list of rare dog breeds, you’ll quickly become familiar with some of the...
Dogs With Blue Eyes
There is just something so striking about the appearance of dogs with blue eyes and that makes them highly desirable as pets. Luckily there are many options to choose from for those who would like to own a light-eyed pooch. So here are some of the top dog breeds with...
Swiss Dog Breeds
While many people are familiar with the Saint Bernard and Bernese Mountain Dog, these are just two of the many dog breeds from Switzerland. From herders and hunters to mountain rescue dogs and companions, these canines each offer something different and unique. So...