On The Prowl

Serious on the trail, the carefree Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen captures hearts.

"He’ll gaze up with those big brown eyes and just make my heart melt,” says Bob C., describing his 8-year-old Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, Bernie.

With a long name that’s truly a mouthful to say, this breed has a list of qualities that’s anything but short. From sports to Canine Good Citizen to sniffing out game, the PBGV isn’t one to rest on his laurels.

Beyond all his talents, the PBGV’s enduring cheerfulness and ability to bring out the best in people are what set him apart, owners say. “To look at a PBGV is to smile,” says Bob, who is also president of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Club of America.

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