Understanding the breed base

When considering life with a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, it’s essential to understand the unique characteristics that define this breed. Understanding the breeds base will help you set realistic expectations and training goals.

Each dog’s temperament is shaped by the breed’s original purpose. For a well-bred petit basset, that means being an independent hunter, capable of making decisions away from humans while working in a pack. This base is very different from, for example, spaniel breeds, which are bred to work closely with humans toward a specific purpose.

This independent nature doesn’t mean petit bassets can’t reach the same training goals as other breeds, but the journey will be different. It requires patience, creativity, and a lot of positive reinforcement to work with their natural instincts rather than against them.

Petit bassets are scent hounds. Their keen sense of smell and curious nature make them fantastic companions for active individuals who love outdoor adventures. These energetic little hounds thrive on regular exercise and mental challenges. They love to use their nose and are usually very food-motivated, which provides a wide variety of ways to offer mental stimulation that are easy for the owner to create, but effectively tire out the dog.

Petit bassets love to express themselves, and early training is essential to manage this trait. Remember, a talkative puppy may seem cute, but an overly vocal adult can be challenging. Shaping their behavior from a young age will help ensure they grow into the well-mannered companion you envision.

Before choosing any dog, imagine how you want them to be as adults. Think about which breed has the base characteristics that align with your vision. Plan what to reinforce in a puppy to help them suit your lifestyle as an adult.

For me as a breeder, training with puppies starts when they are up on their legs at around 5 weeks. It starts from small things, but every step is crucial for future. As an example, to get out of the puppy pen, a puppy must understand to wait and sit down. They never get out when they bark, either. Petit basset puppies are smart, and they understand things very quickly with positive reinforcement. It’s our responsibility as breeder and later owners to plan ahead to avoid mistakes and prevent reinforcing unwanted behaviours.

These insights are based on my personal experiences and opinions as a breeder. The most important thing is to remember that every breed has its own base characteristics, and understanding them is key to building a strong relationship with your dog. If you’re considering a petit basset, take the time to think about how their natural traits will fit into your life.