Small VendГ©en Basset Griffon

Breed Description

The Small VendГ©en Basset Griffon is a breed with an intriguing history that traces back to the ancient French region of VendГ©e, located in western France. This area is known for its dense forests, hilly landscapes, and challenging terrain, which played a key role in shaping this unique dog. The primary purpose of the breed was to track and chase game in hard-to-reach places, such as dense underbrush and narrow trails, where larger dogs lost their maneuverability.

The breed originated from larger VendГ©en hounds that were used for hunting big game. However, in the 19th century, there was a need to create a more compact dog capable of hunting hares, rabbits, and other small game. It was during this time that selective breeding began to reduce the size of the dogs while maintaining their endurance, keen sense of smell, and loud voice, which allowed hunters to track the dog from a distance.

The founder of the Small VendГ©en Basset Griffon is considered to be the Marquis de Lardi, who was actively involved in breeding hounds adapted to the specific conditions of VendГ©e in the mid-19th century. His work focused on creating a dog that could easily navigate through thick brush while remaining effective in its work. Through careful selection and crossbreeding with other French hounds and Bassets, the breed emerged as perfectly suited for hunting in difficult terrain.

In the early 20th century, the breed received official recognition in France, and its popularity later spread beyond the country. The Small VendГ©en Basset Griffon began to be valued not only for its hunting abilities but also for its friendly and lively character, which made it a favorite among families. Today, the breed continues to be used both for hunting and as a companion, maintaining its natural instincts and energy.

This breed exemplifies the perfect combination of working qualities and attractive appearance. Its history is closely linked to the traditions of French hunting, and the persistence and determination of breeders allowed for the creation of a dog that has become a national treasure of France. The Small VendГ©en Basset Griffon remains a symbol of endurance, intelligence, and loyalty, attracting the attention of dog lovers worldwide.

The price for a puppy ranges from 40,000 to 70,000 rubles.

Appearance

The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en is a compact, solidly built dog with a distinctive rough yet charming appearance. Its body is somewhat elongated, with good musculature and a strong back, emphasizing its endurance and working potential. Its slightly elongated legs make it agile and stable, which is important for hunting in challenging conditions. The dog has an expressive head with an elongated muzzle and long, drooping ears that give it a unique character. The gaze is lively and friendly, with a characteristic curiosity typical of active breeds.

The coat is rough, coarse, and of medium length, which is perfect for protection against the elements and thorny bushes. The undercoat is dense, effectively shielding the dog from cold and moisture. The fur appears tousled, adding charm to the breed and highlighting its natural purpose as a hunting dog. The coloration can vary, often featuring combinations of white with orange, black, or gray spots, making its appearance bright and recognizable.

The average height of the Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en is 34-38 cm at the withers, and its weight typically ranges from 15-20 kg, depending on sex and build. These dimensions make it compact enough for hunting in dense underbrush while remaining strong and resilient for prolonged pursuits. The breed’s lifespan is usually 12-14 years, and with proper care, the dog maintains its activity and cheerfulness into old age. Its appearance perfectly reflects its character: it is an energetic, intelligent, and devoted breed, designed for active work and friendly interaction.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head of the small Vendeen Basset Griffon is proportional, with a slightly elongated shape and pronounced lines. The skull is dome-shaped and moderately wide, with a smooth yet noticeable transition from the forehead to the muzzle. The expression of the head is friendly, lively, and attentive, highlighting the breed's energetic character.

Морда

The muzzle is long, with a straight line and a strong jaw. The nose is large, black, with well-developed nostrils, which provides excellent sense of smell. The lips are close-fitting, with slight folds, emphasizing the dog's characteristic rugged appearance.

Уши

The ears are long, thin, set low, and hang down along the head. They are covered in fur and have a rounded shape at the tips. The ears enhance the breed's expression, giving it softness and elegance. Their movement actively conveys the dog's mood.

Глаза

The eyes are large, oval-shaped, dark-colored, and symmetrically set. The gaze is expressive, with a hint of intelligence and friendliness. They are framed by thick eyebrows, which emphasize the distinctive appearance.

Зубы

The teeth are strong with a correct scissor bite. The jaws are powerful, ensuring a confident grip. Regular dental care helps avoid plaque and maintains oral health.

Корпус

The body is compact, elongated, but not stretched. The chest is deep, well-developed, with curved ribs, which gives the dog endurance. The back is straight and strong, with a slight lumbar region that transitions into a broad croup.

Конечности

The limbs are strong, proportional, with well-defined joints. The front legs are straight and sturdy, while the hind legs have pronounced angles, providing a powerful push during movement. The paws are compact, oval-shaped, with strong pads suitable for rough terrain.

Хвост

The tail is of medium length, set high, strong at the base, tapering towards the end. In a calm state, it is usually held low, but when the dog is in motion, it carries it high. It is covered with coarse fur that emphasizes the overall style of the breed.

Шерсть

The fur is coarse, stiff, of medium length, with a dense undercoat. It evenly covers the entire body, giving the dog a tousled yet well-groomed appearance. This structure protects the dog from bad weather and difficult terrain conditions.

Окрас

The color of the small Vendée Basset Griffon can vary: it is most often seen in white with red, gray, or black spots. Such vibrant combinations highlight the dog’s energetic nature and stylish appearance.

Character

The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en is known for its cheerful, energetic, and friendly character, making it a wonderful companion for both hunters and families. This dog loves to be at the center of attention, participating in its owners’ active lives and showcasing its natural talents. It is incredibly curious and always eager to explore the surrounding world, which aligns with its hunting instincts. The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en possesses great endurance and persistence, making it an excellent partner for long walks, runs, or hikes.

This breed is exceptionally sociable; it gets along well with other dogs and even different species of animals, provided proper socialization has taken place. Its openness and desire to befriend others make it especially beloved among children, with whom it can play for hours while remaining patient and affectionate. However, its hunting instinct may surface, particularly if it spots small prey, so during walks it is crucial to keep it under control.

The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en is intelligent but can occasionally be stubborn. This trait requires patience during training, as the dog tends to be independent. It responds best to gentle yet consistent training methods using praise and rewards. Its natural intelligence allows it to quickly learn new commands, especially when training is done in a playful manner.

This breed does not enjoy being alone and needs close contact with people. If left alone for long periods, the Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en may exhibit anxiety or even boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. It is important for it to feel like part of the family and to receive enough attention. Despite its energetic nature, it can behave calmly at home if given the necessary physical exercise during walks.

This is a cheerful and energetic dog that is perfect for individuals leading an active lifestyle. Its character combines playfulness, good-naturedness, and a readiness to be by your side, making it a versatile and reliable friend.

Care and Maintenance

The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en does not require complicated care, but certain aspects of its maintenance demand special attention to keep the dog healthy and well-groomed. The primary care is related to its coat, which is coarse and slightly tousled. It should be brushed 1-2 times a week to remove dead hair and prevent matting. Regular brushing also helps maintain its natural shine and protects against dirt. The dog should not be bathed often, only as needed, using gentle shampoos to avoid disrupting the coat’s structure.

Special attention should be paid to the ears, as their drooping shape predisposes them to the accumulation of dirt and moisture, which can lead to inflammation or infections. Ears need to be regularly checked and cleaned using special products. The eyes also require care: they should be examined and wiped to prevent possible irritation. The teeth of the Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en should be brushed regularly to prevent plaque and tartar build-up. To maintain oral health, special chew toys can be used.

This breed has a high activity level and requires long walks and playtime. It loves to explore its surroundings, so it’s important to be attentive during walks to ensure the dog doesn’t get too absorbed in following scents and wander off. The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en enjoys play, especially activities that allow it to use its natural scenting abilities, such as searching for hidden objects. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, it may become bored, which can sometimes lead to destructive behavior.

The dog values attention, interaction, and close contact with its family. It loves to be near its owners, participate in their daily lives, and receive affection. It cannot tolerate loneliness, as it forms strong attachments to its owners. Prolonged absence from the family can cause it stress and anxiety. The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en does not respond well to harsh treatment or roughness, as it has a sensitive nature. Stability and respectful treatment are important for it to feel comfortable and safe. Proper care and attention to the dog’s needs will make it a happy, active, and loyal companion.

Training and Education

The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en is an intelligent yet independent dog, making its training require patience, consistency, and a gentle approach. These dogs possess a strong hunting instinct, which leads them to make decisions on their own. It’s important to start training at an early age to lay the foundation for obedience and socialization. The breed responds best to positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, or playful rewards. Harshness or shouting can make the dog stubborn and decrease its motivation to learn.

Training should be varied to maintain the dog’s interest. The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en loves tasks that involve using its natural scenting abilities, so incorporating elements of searching or tracking will make training more engaging. Commands should be repeated regularly, but without being pushy, so the dog doesn’t lose interest. Short, frequent training sessions are more effective than long ones, which can tire it out.

This breed chooses a owner who demonstrates confidence, patience, and the ability to consider its individual needs. The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en bonds with those who give it sufficient attention, engage actively, and provide a sense of security. Dogs of this breed prefer owners who are willing to spend a lot of time on walks and provide them with physical and mental stimulation.

The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en is obedient to those who become reliable and calm leaders, showing consistency and firmness without harshness. Its trust and desire to please its owner depend on the level of emotional connection and quality of interaction. The breed is best suited for active individuals or families who are prepared to engage in its upbringing and address its natural needs. With the right approach, this dog becomes obedient, attentive, and incredibly loyal, while still being a vibrant personality. At Zoonyka, they offer puppies with pedigree and health guarantees.

How to Choose a Puppy

When choosing a puppy of the Petit Vendeen Basset Griffon breed, it is important to go to a trusted kennel that specializes in this breed and can provide complete information about the puppy’s parents and the conditions of its upbringing. The breeder should demonstrate the living conditions of the dogs, their health, and socialization. Puppies should grow in a clean and well-kept environment, being active, curious, and friendly.

The puppy should have a robust build, be cheerful, and self-confident. Pay attention to its coat-it should be clean, thick, and without bald patches. The eyes should be bright, with no discharge, and the ears should be clean and odor-free. Check how the puppy moves: it should be nimble, with a steady gait, and show no signs of limping. Observe how it reacts to people and new sounds-a healthy puppy shows interest and doesn’t appear fearful.

Make sure to check the documents. The puppy’s pedigree (or puppy card) confirms the dog’s lineage and compliance with breed standards. This document can later be exchanged for a full pedigree. The pedigree of the parents should include several generations of ancestors, noting their titles and achievements. This helps ensure that the puppy has not been inbred, which could affect its health.

The puppy’s veterinary passport should contain records of vaccinations, deworming, and parasite treatments. Also, ask the breeder if the parents have been tested for hereditary diseases typical of the breed. This will help minimize the risk of genetic issues in the puppy.

A good breeder should provide recommendations for feeding, care, and socialization of the puppy, as well as be willing to answer all questions and give advice on how to help the dog adapt in its new home. Choosing a puppy based on health, behavior, and breed standards will ensure you have a resilient, beautiful, and characterful representative of the breed that will be a loyal friend and companion.

Health and Diseases

The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en is generally known for its good health and endurance, which is attributed to its natural origins and a long history of breeding under real working conditions. However, the breed is predisposed to certain diseases that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which can cause pain and mobility difficulties. Prevention includes weight management, moderate exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups.

Given the structure of its long, drooping ears, this breed is prone to ear infections. Accumulation of moisture and dirt can lead to inflammation, so regular ear cleaning and checks are essential parts of care. The Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en may also be susceptible to eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy, which can result in vision deterioration. Regular visits to a veterinary ophthalmologist help catch these issues early.

This dog can suffer from skin conditions caused by allergies or insufficient grooming. Regular brushing and the use of quality skin and coat care products help reduce the risk. It’s also important to monitor the dog’s teeth, as the breed can develop tartar. Regular tooth brushing or the use of chew toys can help prevent gum and dental issues.

The energetic nature of the Petit Basset Griffon VendГ©en requires adequate exercise to prevent obesity, which can negatively affect its overall health and joints. Additionally, the breed sometimes faces digestive problems, so providing a proper and balanced diet is crucial. With good care, timely vaccinations, and preventive measures, the dog can maintain its health and vitality throughout its average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Paying attention to its condition and regular veterinary check-ups can help avoid most problems and ensure a long, happy life for the pet. Thinking about it? There’s a vast selection of listings on the map by cities on Zoonica.