Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Origin

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen dog breed can be traced back to the 16th century and originates from the Vendee region of western France. There are two varieties of the basset type of Griffon Vendeen, the Petit and the Grand. These two originally occurred in the same litters, and it wasn't until the 1970s that the cross breeding of these two varieties was forbidden. Today, these dogs are still used, as individuals or in packs, to hunt wild boar and to scent rabbit and hare.

Personality

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a fun, extrovert dog who loves to be kept active. He can be stubborn, independent and bold, so requires an owner with patience and tolerance, but he is always willing to please. He gets on well with other dogs, children and strangers.

Health

As with many breeds the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen can suffer various inherited eye conditions and so eye testing is recommended in all dogs prior to breeding. Epilepsy is also known to occur in both Grands and Petits.

Exercise

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen requires an hour's exercise or more a day, as well as games and time outside. A country-loving dog, his hunting instincts are still in evidence, and he loves putting his nose to the ground and following any scents he detects – sometimes developing 'hound selective deafness' at the same time!

Nutrition

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Grooming

The weather-resistant coat comprises a thick undercoat and a rough, harsh, medium-length topcoat. A weekly groom is needed, as well as regular ear cleaning.