Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
Male: 14-18 kg, Female: 11-15 kg
34-38 cm at the shoulder
12-14 years
France (Vendée region)
About the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, or PBGV, is often referred to as the 'Happy Breed' due to its wagging tail and cheerful disposition. Originating from the coastal region of Vendée in France, this small but sturdy hound was developed to hunt rabbits through thick brambles. They are characterized by their rough, tousled coat, distinctive beard and eyebrows, and a 'saber' tail carried proudly. Despite their smaller stature, they possess the stamina and 'voice' of a much larger hound. In a home environment, the PBGV is a devoted and spirited companion that thrives on human interaction. They are known for their intelligence but also an independent streak typical of scent hounds, meaning they require consistent, positive reinforcement training. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, though their vocalizations are more of a musical hound 'bay' than a standard bark. They are best suited to active families who can provide the mental and physical stimulation this curious breed craves.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the PBGV is prized for its 'rustic' appearance; the coat must appear natural and tousled, never sculpted. Key attributes include a level topline, a well-developed chest, and a proud, alert carriage. Their movement should be free and easy at all speeds, covering ground efficiently with good reach and drive.
In Australia
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen first arrived in Australia in December 1984 following the importation of dogs from the United Kingdom. As reported by the Basset Griffon Vendeen Club of NSW, the first litter was recorded in 1985 to establish the breed locally for show and companionship.
Bred For
Scent hunting small game, primarily rabbits and hares, through dense brush and difficult terrain.
Temperament
Happy, extroverted, independent, and highly energetic with a bold and alert nature.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Primary Open Angle (POAG), PBGV Pain Syndrome (Steroid-Responsive Meningitis-Arteriitis), , , and .
Grooming Needs
Moderate; weekly brushing of the rough coat is required to prevent matting, along with regular ear cleaning and occasional stripping to maintain coat texture.
Living Suitability
Suited to houses with secure yards; not ideal for apartment living due to their vocal nature and high energy requirements. They need a scent-secure space as their nose often leads them into trouble.
Good with Kids
Excellent; they are sturdy, playful, and generally very patient with children of all ages.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs; however, their high prey drive means they should be supervised or introduced carefully to small non-canine pets like rabbits or cats.
Trainability
Moderate; they are intelligent but independent and can be stubborn. They respond best to variety and food-based rewards rather than repetitive drills.
Coat & Colours
Rough, long, and wiry with a thick undercoat; never silky or woolly.. White with combinations of lemon, orange, tri-color, grizzle, or sable markings.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that PBGVs are predisposed to Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG), an eye condition that can lead to blindness—this is manageable with screening, but essential for owners to monitor. They are also more likely to experience 'PBGV Pain Syndrome' (SRMA), an inflammatory condition; while it can be alarming, most dogs respond very well to veterinary treatment. As long-eared hounds, they are prone to ear infections if moisture or wax is trapped, so weekly ear checks are a must. Their independent hound nature can lead to a bit of stubbornness during training, and their vocal 'baying' is a hallmark of the breed that neighbors may not always appreciate. However, their boundless joy and affectionate personality make these quirks easy to embrace for the right owner. They are also prone to weight gain if overfed, so keeping them lean on a fresh diet is vital for their long-term spinal and joint health.
Feeding Guide for Your Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
Healthy Weight
11-18 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
300-450 grams
For an adult PBGV, a fresh or raw diet should focus on lean proteins and moderate fats. Owners should aim for 2-3% of the dog's ideal body weight daily. For a 15 kg dog, this equates to approximately 300g to 450g per day, split into two meals. Adjust portions based on individual activity levels and metabolic rate.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality diet rich in animal proteins to support high energy levels, with careful calorie management to prevent obesity which can strain their joints.
A balanced raw diet for a PBGV should include lean proteins such as Kangaroo or Beef from Majestik Pet Food to maintain muscle without excess weight. The mix should consist of approximately 70% muscle meat, 10% edible bone (like chicken necks), 10% organs (heart and liver), and 10% seasonal vegetables. Including Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or hemp oil is beneficial for their wiry coat and joint health.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
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No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
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Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-6 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.