Frequently Asked Questions

TEMPERAMENT
What is a BGV really like? Both Grands and Petits are full of life, inquisitive, busy, happy, alert, independent and remarkably intelligent. They are willing to please and affectionate. Being the larger of the two breeds, GBGVs are stronger and need firmer handling but are known for being more laid back than the busy little PBGV. As scenthounds, they are pack animals and recognise their own kind.

TRAINING
Can you train them? Hounds are not as biddable as other breeds of dog. However, the BGV's desire to learn is a bonus and, depending on the amount of time you can devote, yours will learn simple basic commands allowing him to become a great family member. However, remember that these are scenthounds. If a BGV gets on the trail of something, his nose takes over from his brains and he will only return when ready.

What can you train them to do? House-training and basic obedience come naturally and, from an early age, some learn how to behave in the showring. With special training, many compete successfully in other events such as obedience, tracking, agility trials, noseweork and heelwork to music. A few are used in Search and Rescue or as Therapy dogs. Some also achieve high standards in events such as the Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme.

Do they bark much? Most BGVs only bark if they have a reason to - for instance if someone comes to the front door or if it is time for dinner. In general they do not just bark for nothing. However, being a hound, the occasional melodious howl is likely to ring out.

Are they destructive? As with any breed, a bored or lonely BGV will find something to get up to. If you have to leave him for a short while, giving him a variety of safe toys or things to chew on and secure surroundings will lessen the chance of him becoming destructive. A crate is useful and becomes your BGV's special place to rest where he feels secure for a short period of time. Leave the door open for him to get used to it.

Are they good with children? BGVs are an amiable breed and generally warm to all, having a natural affinity with children. Some children compete with them in various Young Kennel Club handling competitions at shows. However, as with any dog, you should never leave a young child unattended with your BGV and never allow teasing orhitting your BGV, as this will provoke an undesirable reaction.

Can you let them off the lead? Because they are fast hounds, some are reluctant to let their BGV off the lead. It depends on the nature of the particular BGV, also on early training. If you decide to let yours run free, do it in an area well away from roads or livestock and preferably one that is enclosed. Practise recall training by encouraging him to return from short distances, rewarding with a small treat. Remember though that the hunting instinct is very strong - one small scent and your hunter may be off on the chase. If you stand your ground he will eventually return but, if you cannot wait, a flexi-lead is a good alternative.

IN THE HOME
What type of fencing will I need? To remove your worries your garden must be securely fenced, ideally with strong wooden panels about 6 ft (around 2 metres) high. If your BGV digs, put wire netting at an L shape down the bottom of the fencing and buried into the ground. His nails will then meet the netting. To deter a climber, make sure strong branches of trees or bushes are well away from your fence! Check fencing regularly for damage, also boundaries for small holes where an animal (such as a fox) may have dug in which, in turn, gives your BGV a way out.

Can a BGV live in a flat or without a garden? This is far from ideal. A ground floor flat with its own garden is perfectly acceptable. However anyone living higher up must consider seriously if this is fair on an active BGV, who needs regular access to open space and grass. Can you give him regular exercise? A BGV needs plenty of walking or running and just taking the dog out on a lead to relieve himself is not enough. Several long walks each day would be needed at a bare minimum and putting your shoes and coat on to take the dog out in all weathers or just before before bed will soon become a chore.

If I want more than one, are they OK together? Would a BGV get on with my current family pet? For enthusiasts of the breed, one BGV is wonderful, two an absolute joy. They provide company and entertainment for each other. However, consider waiting to get your second one or varying their ages as, in years to come, with two oldies you will have the attendant problems and upset. Introduce a BGV into the family by meeting your existing dog on neutral ground. He will then think he is taking his new friend back to his home. BGVs also normally befriend other family pets - although take care with rabbits!

GROOMING
How do I care for my BGV's coat? His coat should be thick, harsh and casual. For simple grooming, give a weekly brushing to remove loose or dead hair. A pin brush, comb and possibly a mat breaker, which will help remove any little knots, are the only necessary tools. Bathe him as necessary.

What about other grooming? Nails need clipping regularly and ear canals kept free of excess hair and wax. Teeth need regular care to be kept clean and free of tartar. Trim long hair under the feet and check between the pads for dried mud, mats or unwanted material. If you show your BGV, or want to keep him looking characteristic of the breed, there is abit more to it! At a minimum, keeping that unrefined, rustic look means - making sure there is no excess hair covering the eyes, removing long, untidy hair from the ends of the ears and keeping the feet neat. You can achieve this, and tidying up the body, by plucking hair out with finger and thumb or using a stripping knife. The breeder or any other breeder will be pleased to show you how to do this.

HEALTH & NUTRITION
Are BGVs healthy? As with any breed of dog, BGVs suffer from the usual 'doggy' health problems, most of which can be prevented by prompt veterinary attention, such as antibiotics. However insurance should be seriously considered in case of unexpected illnesses or accidents.

Are there any specific health problems that I should be concerned about? In general PBGVs and GBGVs are healthy breeds, though sadly any breed can be subject to genetic and/or birth defects. A few conditions have been reported in BGVs such as neck pain syndrome, heart murmurs, epilepsy and some eye conditions. These problems are monitored very carefully in most countries where BGVs live, especially the known slight incidence of epilepsy and primary open angled glaucoma which are actively researched. This includes regular eye testing, moving towards DNA testing and encompasses working closely with prominent vets to find solutions to these identified problems. Talk to the breeder if you have any concerns about health issues. Ask for evidence of eye testing of sire and dam and, when buying, get certification of the puppy's current good health. Ask your own vet to examine your puppy to confirm its health status, including that it has no heart, eye, ear or other abnormalities.

What is the life expectancy? Many BGVs lead active lives up to and exceeding around 14 - 15 years.

What do BGVs eat? They are easy to feed. Giving the recommended amount of a good quality dog food (either complete or canned) and a small quantity of dog treats will normally satisfy nutritional needs. Other specialised diets are also tolerated extremely well. Supplements or special foods should be used only on the recommendation of your vet.

OBTAINING A BGV
Where can I find a BGV puppy? Always go to a reputable breeder - either one that is accredited by the Kennel Club or listed on the BGV Club website. Either of the following will help you:
The Kennel Club, tel 0844 463 3980, www.thekennelclub.org.uk
The Breeders Directory on the BGV Club website, www.bgvclub.co.uk

Is it possible to get an older, already trained dog? Sometimes breeders have older dogs to re-home. These are usually ones that are no longer being shown or they decide are not suitable for showing. Most breeders stay in touch with the new owners, who become good friends, and they still occasionally see the BGVs who were a part of their lives. Another source is via a recognised rescue organisation. Iff you would like to help in rehoming, the following will help:
Rescue organisations - click here

Can I see BGVs at dog shows? You can see the breed at small "open" shows or larger "championship" shows and the BGV Club has two shows a year. If you want to exhibit, visiting shows is a good way to get a feel for the breed and gives the opportunity to talk to breeders. Venues and dates are listed in weekly dog papers, or on various websites, and details of the BGV Club's own shows appear on www.bgvclub.co.uk.

BOOKS AVAILABLE
Published in 1999, the most recent in-depth PBGV book is Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen: A Definitive Study by Valerie Link and Linda Skerritt, Doral Publishing. The ISBN is 0-94485580. The authors obtained previously unexamined kennel records, albums and archives. They chart in-depth early days of the breed in prominent countries, with detailed information and unseen photos, also give specific breed care.

A good source of information is the book Understanding the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen: Rustic French Hound by Kitty Steidel, Orient Publications, 1987. The ISBN is 0-9618117-0-6. Written when the breed was in its infancy in the States, this book gives general history and standards, discusses training and general care. It is informative, interesting and easy to read.

For general dog-care, American Jeffrey Pepper has authored three books on the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. The first was produced by TFH Publications, 1993, ISBN is 0-86622-578-1. It gives advice on selecting and caring for a PBGV. The second, published by Interpet, appeared in 2001, ISBN 1-903098-00-8. With charming photos, this too explains about care of your PBGV. A similar third book, a special limited edition, ISBN 1-59378-310-8, is published by Kennel Club Books.

In 2003, a privately printed book appeared. This is the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen by Vivien Phillips charts the breed's ancestry and its early history in the UK. The book is available from her on 01442 851225, vivienphillips@tiscali.co.uk

Finally, a new addition came in 2004 with Meet the Basset Breeds - another privately produced book. This contains never-before seen historical documents and photos of all basset breeds, including PBGV and GBGV information and breeder ads. The second edition, also by Linda Skerritt, is on similar lines with more exciting unseen material plus breeder information. Only the second edition is now available - from Linda Skerritt on 01753 817987, monkhams@aol.com.