Group 6 · Scent hounds
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is the smallest of the rough-coated scent hounds from the Vendée in France. It is cheerful, curious and a true sniffer.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 4 examinations:
- 1 DNA test
- 1 X-ray examination
- 1 eye examination
- 1 kneecap examination
The breeding programme also recommends 1 further examination.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (4)
-
Hip dysplasia (HD)
X-ray Once at least 1 year (laxity views: at least 6 months)
Official description
- Method
- X-ray: VD view and laxity view (Vezzoni or PennHIP)
-
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG)
DNA test Once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- ADAMTS17; XM_545825.4:c.1721+2668_*4831255inv
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Patellar luxation (PT)
Kneecap examination Once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- Palpation of the kneecap
-
Eye disorders
Eye examination Valid for 2 years at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- General eye examination
Recommended examinations (1)
-
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
X-ray Once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- X-ray (CT may be recommended, but is not mandatory)
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 17/07/2026.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Hip dysplasia (HD), Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), Patellar luxation (PT) and Eye disorders. The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Elbow dysplasia (ED). A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen needs long daily walks with time to sniff. Its rough coat needs a weekly brush.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- What are the results of both parent dogs for Hip dysplasia (HD) and Elbow dysplasia (ED)?
- Is the general eye examination of both parent dogs still valid? According to the breeding programme: Valid for 2 years.
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
It is friendly but strong-willed, and likes to follow its nose. Only let it off the lead in a securely fenced area. It can bark loudly.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
