ENERGY COMPACTED: PETIT BASSET GRIFFON VENDÉEN by KITTY STEIDEL
T he PBGV has made a big hit here in the U.S. in the last 29 years. Yet, there are not as many PBGV’s shown today, three decades after his arrival, because the competition is strong and the own- er/handler is frustrated in competing on the Specials Stage with the Profes- sional Handlers. Why did the profes- sionals eye them and want to show them immediately? Easy answer: The breed is happy, showy, enthusiastic, with flamboyancy and flash. How per- fect for the show scene!
From his development in the rugged Vendéen region of France, the PBGVwas smallest of four rough coated hounds of that region. His larger cousin, but still considered ‘basset’ to the French, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, joined the Miscellaneous Group Miscellaneous in January 2014. The PBGV’s busy–ness, activity and enthusiasm for all he meets coupled with his rustic and ready appearance, give one the impression of energy compacted and that he is. Alert at all times, he notices everything in his
environment. Since he misses nothing, he is never bored nor boring! I have brought together some expe- rienced voices in the breed to give perspective on breeding, judging, living with and the versatility of the PBGV character: Robyn Wallis, Rokeena Kennel, Aus- tralia, scoured the globe to find the very best with which to start. Her first breed was Gordons. She has had great success with PBGVs. She has an ideal she works toward. You may recall her big winner here, CJ with Jane Myers a few years ago.
284 • S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , D ECEMBER 2017
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