Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Breed: Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
Temperament: loyal, fun-loving
Cost: $1500-$5000
Lifespan: 17 years
Recommended for: families
Maintenance: medium-high

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen falls into the small-cute-scuffy-dog category but is one of the rarer members found here. There are probably less than 20 in Australia today, although their attractive appearance and outgoing temperament could spark a big demand.

Appearance: To the lay-person the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen looks like a cross between a Beagle and a Wire-coated Dachshund, standing 34-38cm (13.5-15") and weighing 14-16kg (31-35lb). It is essentially a dwarf (normal body, short legs) rather than a miniature breed (eg: Tenterfield Terrier which has legs in proportion to its body). The coat is wiry and comes in typical hound markings of white with cream, black and tan. Very long eyelashes are a feature of the breed, possibly to keep hair out of their eyes. They have a rounded head and drop ears.

Temperament: Australian owners say they are known overseas as the "happy hound", being extremely friendly and playful, enjoying company, but are boisterous as puppies. Owners say they are very fast and will still chase rabbits given the chance. They get along well with other dog breeds.

Health: The condition causing the shortened legs, chondrodysplasia, is associated with back problems, and is seen in dogs like Dachshunds. While careful selection can reduce potential problems, the breed is too new in Australia to have a real chance of predicting any future difficulties.

Grooming: Breeders recommend the outer coat be stripped (pulled out) by hand. A thorough brushing each week should remove most of the dead hair which otherwise may shed on clothes and furniture.

Breeding: While this is not yet an option for the average person given the breed's rarity in Australia, breeders say they have had no trouble whelping, with litters of 4-6 puppies.

Space & exercise: Not a breed for a flat or unit, but a suburban backyard and a few children to play with, or a 30-minute walk a few times a week, should provide adequate exercise.

Ideal Owner: These dogs thrive on attention and if left alone for much of the day may seek out company elsewhere! If a Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is to be alone much of the day, a second dog could be a very good idea. Some owners feel they may be too boisterous for toddlers and pre-schoolers, although ideal for school-age children.

History: Breeders say the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen was developed as a French hunting dog in the 16th century. The name defines the dog: Petit - small; Basset - low to the ground; Griffon - rough or wire-coated; and Vendeen - the region of origin.

For further information

Lorraine & Lance Gray phone (02) 4735 7599.

Copyright 1999 CTC Productions