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Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Hound breed from Vendée, France
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a medium-sized, rough-coated French scent hound known for its happy, outgoing, and confident temperament. Bred for hunting rabbit and hare in dense brush, this breed is energetic and independent, with an alert and lively personality. Its sturdy build, low-to-the-ground stature, and distinctive beard and mustache are characteristic. While generally good with children and other dogs (suitability scores of 3 out of 5), individual behavior varies. The breed's energy level is high (4/5), and it is moderately trainable (3/5). Grooming needs are moderate (3/5) due to the rough coat, and shedding is low (2/5). Apartment suitability is below average (2/5), suggesting a need for space and exercise. Estimated adult weight ranges from 11 to 18 kg for both sexes, height from 33 to 38 cm, and lifespan from 12 to 16 years. All measurements are modelled estimates.
Quick facts
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginVendée, France
Lifespan12–16 years
Male weight11–18 kilogram
Female weight11–18 kilogram
Male height33–38 centimetre
Female height33–38 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen originated in the Vendée region of France, developed from larger Grand Griffon Vendéen hounds. According to one source, the breed was developed in the 16th century specifically for hunting rabbit and hare in dense brush. The name itself describes the breed: 'Petit' (small), 'Basset' (low to the ground), 'Griffon' (rough-coated), and 'Vendéen' (from Vendée). The breed's history is tied to its working purpose as a scent hound, built low to navigate thick undergrowth. Recognition status varies by registry, and the exact timeline of official recognition is not uniformly documented. The breed's origins are rooted in the hunting traditions of the Vendée region, but specific historical events or dates beyond the 16th-century development are not consistently reported.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
11–18 kilogramAdult weight33–38 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesRoughCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Happyoutgoingindependentalertconfidentenergetic
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight11–18 kilogramAdult female weight11–18 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen?
This is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females ranges from 11 to 18 kg, and height from 33 to 38 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 16 years. All measurements are modelled estimates.
What is the temperament of a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen?
The breed is described as happy, outgoing, independent, alert, confident, and energetic. However, individual dogs may vary. They are generally rated moderate for child suitability and dog compatibility (3 out of 5).
How much exercise does a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen need?
This breed has a high energy level (4 out of 5) and was bred for hunting, so it likely requires regular, vigorous exercise. Apartment suitability is low (2 out of 5), suggesting a need for space and activity.
What are the grooming requirements for a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen?
Grooming needs are moderate (3 out of 5) due to the rough coat. Shedding is low (2 out of 5). Regular brushing and occasional grooming are recommended.
Is the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen good for families with children or other dogs?
The breed has a child suitability score of 3 out of 5 and dog compatibility score of 3 out of 5, indicating average suitability. Individual temperament varies, so supervision and proper introductions are advised.
Where does the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen originate from?
The breed originates from the Vendée region of France. It was developed from larger Grand Griffon Vendéen hounds, likely in the 16th century, for hunting rabbit and hare in dense brush.
Is the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen easy to train?
Trainability is rated 3 out of 5, indicating moderate ease. The breed's independent nature may require patience and consistent, positive reinforcement methods.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.