Description:

DESCRIPTION Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen dogs are scent hounds developed to hunt small game over the rough and difficult terrain of the Vendéen region. Of the four rough-coated hound breeds from Vendéen, France, the Petit Bassett Griffon Vendéen is the smallest. They are bold and vivacious in character, compact, tough and robust in construction. They have drop ears that are medium in length, and they have a short muzzle. Although, their heads are twice as long as they are wide. Their bones are light compared to other breeds, and the body is stocky. They are the smallest of the Vendéen breeds, as well as the most popular. They are lively, active, and inquisitive. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen dogs are friendly, eager to please and energetic. They get along with almost anyone, with their outgoing, fun-loving personality. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen dogs are intelligent, but do not learn quite as fast as most other breeds. They are a happy-go-lucky little dog that enjoys its owner, but can be independent. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen dogs are highly popular in their native France as hunting dogs of hare and rabbit, and occasionally wild boar. TEMPERAMENT Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen puppies and dogs are affectionate, independent, and enthusiastic. They are outgoing and lively, and love to be active. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen puppies and dogs are fun loving, not the smartest of dogs, but very eager to please. They get along with almost everyone, pets and children. GROOMING Rough, long and harsh to the touch, never wooly or silky; they have a thick undercoat. They have bushy eyebrows and a beard. Minimal weekly brushing or combing with a hard brush. Pluck ear canals. HEALTH PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), juvenile cataracts, and patellar luxation. They are also prone to aseptic meningitis, epilepsy, heart murmurs, and hip dysplasia. EXERCISE Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen dogs need considerable amounts of exercise. A home with a fenced yard is best for the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. Hunting is instinctive and so is digging. Never let them loose or they will be gone. The best owner for this breed would be an active owner living in a rural or suburban home. TRAINING Although Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen puppies and dogs are naturally obedient, they need to be taught control and be made to under stand who is "alpha dog" in the home.