Collection: Personalised Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Gifts

Known as the ‘Happy Breed’, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a small and very distinctive former scent hound originally bred to hunt game in the Vendeen region of France. They look cute, almost comical, but make no mistake, underneath that rough coat lies a determined hunter.

Nicknamed the PBGV, this dog looks like a scruff ball with long rough hair, bushy eyebrows, a beard and moustache plus the most delightful character.

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a small French hound that can be traced as far back as the 16th century. The French name describes a small, low to the ground, wire-haired dog from the Vendeen region of France, an area noted for its tough terrain featuring brush, rocks and brambles. The PBGV was bred to hunt rabbits in this country.

There are two types of Basset Griffon Vendeen, the other being ‘Grand’ but there was no real standardisation of breed types until the late 1800s. A French breed society began in 1907 and recognised both types and now there are strict rules about mixing the two different sizes with the PGBV finally being awarded its own breed standard in the 1950s. The PBGV was recognised by the Kennel Club in 1991.

The PBGV is a very merry and happy dog, active, intelligent and curious and offers unlimited affection to its owners. Needless to say, this breed is great with children and make a lovely family pet, gentle yet engaging and happy to join in with all activities.

They are an energetic dog unlike some of the other basset breeds so require a fair amount of exercise and can have a stubborn streak but early training and socialisation usually deal with that. Curiosity can develop into escapologist tendencies so they do need secure fencing in outdoor areas.