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We acquired our first pbgv from Ann
Snelling of the Oaktree Kennel in Canada. Mrs. Snelling was
largely responsible for establishing the breed in Canada and
promoting it in the United States. Her breeding stock was
France being the Country of origin.
AKC recognition was granted in February 1991. The Petit
Basset Griffon Vendeen is the smallest of four scent hounds
developed for hunting in the Vendee region of France.
The standard was not written until the beginning of this
century, but the breed can be traced back about 400 years.
The PBGV structure is agile and nimble to accommodate hunting
hare, rabbit and other small game in the thick cover of its
native land. The PBGVs rough, thick coat, was promoted in the
breed development to protect the dog as it hunted the tough
undergrowth.
Up to this point, the PBGV has been used primarily as a
hunting dog in small packs. The hunting instinct remains
strong and if a PBGV picks up a scent, he will follow where
ever it leads. He is a breed requiring activity and 
entertainment. He exercises judgment easily and sets out on his own once a scent is detected. It is not
good practice to let any dog run free, it is especially
mandatory for this breed. The breed, in general, is not
fearful of any person or automobile and could be harmed
because of this trustful nature.
We try to select the
appropriate companion temperament or show attitude to fulfill
the requirements of an interested party. Experience in
breeding PBGVs for over seventeen years has given us the
opportunity to evaluate many puppies with success in
placement. We find there is no difference in male or female
temperaments – just in the individual puppy. They do not make
good “watch” dogs. Again, they are very trusting and feel as
though no one could do them harm. They are very good with
children.
As any other breed, the PBGV has health concerns. We try and
breed dogs that we feel will be free of major issues, but if
veterinarian diagnosis concludes that a health problem exists,
we act appropriately and responsibly.
Coat care should be done on a routine basis. Combing to
prevent mats and tangles, nails trimmed and ears cleaned are
the major considerations. Most professional groomers will
trim PBs in a terrier-style trim. This, of course, is
undesirable. Educating groomers as to the natural, tousled
look is an on-going chore. Proper veterinarian care, high
quality diet regular exercise and consistent grooming will
allow PBs to live a long, healthy life.
Learning about the breed in its native land has given us
insight into the strong character of the PBGV. The French
breeders and hunters share their experiences and encourage us
to be aware of the direction our breeding program should go.
There has been a change in temperament and look of the first
dogs we acquired and bred and the puppies we produce now.
Personalities are consistently happy and cheerful. They seem
to be stronger and healthier, possessing consistent correct
size and balance with outstanding coat, texture and
appearance. The blending of the pedigrees of the various
countries has made us aware of the differences in temperaments
and make it more apparent as to which puppy could have a show
career and which puppy should be the companion dog.
We have been very successful having top breed dogs, specialty
winners and best in show winners in several countries. Charlen
can boast the first best in show in the United States with Ch. Varon Willful of
Pauntley, aka "Truffles"
, at Saratoga Kennel Club's show back in January of 1992.
