Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
A small, scruffy French scenthound bred to hunt rabbit in the Vendée. Happy, outgoing and sociable, but a determined worker with a strong nose and a loud bark.
Overview
A small, scruffy French scenthound bred to hunt rabbit in the Vendée. Happy, outgoing and sociable, but a determined worker with a strong nose and a loud bark.
Good to know — a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is best with a garden and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is good with children and sociable with other dogs. They tend to be a vocal / alert barker, and as a guide they are manageable for committed beginners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Homes with a secure garden
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen typically needs 90 minutes to 2 hours a day (roughly 90–120 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is regular brushing and shedding is moderate. Brush regularly (a few times a week) to keep the coat healthy and remove loose hair.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a small breed will eat relatively little compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Cheerful, sociable and family-friendly
- Robust little hound with great character
Things to consider
- Strong scent drive and selective recall
- Vocal and likes to dig
Similar breeds
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A gentle, affectionate lap dog that’s wonderful with children and adapts happily to flat or house living.
View breed guide →
Jack Russell Terrier
A small dog with a huge personality — bold, clever and bursting with energy and prey drive.
View breed guide →
Border Terrier
A hardy, good-natured working terrier that’s friendlier with people and dogs than many of its terrier cousins.
View breed guide →
Dachshund
A bold, characterful "sausage dog" that suits smaller homes but needs careful handling of its long back.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens bark a lot?
Vocal / alert barker. They can be quite vocal, so early training and enough exercise and stimulation help keep barking in check.
Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens suit flats or smaller homes?
Best with a garden. A Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is happiest with access to a secure garden and regular outdoor exercise.
Happier, healthier pets — in your inbox.
Breed care tips, seasonal advice and first access to new arrivals. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.