Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Health and Costs
Breed Group
Hound Dogs
Country of Origin
France
Breed Size
Medium
AKC Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1990
FCI Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1954
Rarity
Fairly Common4 / 10
Purchase cost
Moderate cost5 / 10
Life expectancy
Long Lifespan7 / 10
Health
Fairly healthy6 / 10
Health problem risk
Average health burden5 / 10
Maintenance cost
Moderate upkeep cost4 / 10
A Veterinarian's Guide
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Health Problems and Costs
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, usually shortened to PBGV, is a happy, shaggy scent hound bred in France to trail rabbits through thick brush. It is generally a hardy breed, but a few problems repeat: inherited glaucoma and other eye trouble, ear infections, joint strain from its long, low build, and an underactive thyroid. Knowing them before you bring a puppy home, or while you already share your life with one, makes screening and vet visits much easier to plan.
In this guide
Why Is Glaucoma Screening Important in This Breed?
Primary open-angle glaucoma, a rise in eye pressure that slowly damages the optic nerve, is among the conditions seen more often in the breed. It is caused by a recessive gene, meaning a puppy is affected only when both parents pass it on. Glaucoma comes from the Greek glaukos, "gleaming" or "blue-gray," for the cloudy look an affected eye can take on. Because the pressure builds gradually, a dog can lose significant vision before an owner notices, since dogs adapt to slow sight loss far better than people do. A DNA test and a yearly eye exam, which can include a pressure reading, are the two best tools.
What Sudden Eye Problem Needs Same-Day Care?
A suddenly red, cloudy, or painful eye needs veterinary attention the same day, because eye pressure problems can damage sight within hours.
A displaced lens, the clear focusing structure inside the eye, can shift out of place and trigger sudden pain and glaucoma, as the Merck Veterinary Manual describes. The only effective treatment is surgery, and a veterinary ophthalmologist can advise on timing. Any sudden change in an eye is worth treating as urgent rather than watching overnight.
- 01
Painful eye
Squinting, pawing at the eye, or holding it shut.
- 02
Suddenly cloudy eye
The eye turns bluish or hazy over hours or days.
- 03
Red eye or discharge
Redness, heavy tearing, or thick discharge.
- 04
Apparent vision loss
Bumping into things or hesitating in familiar places.
Why Do the Hips and Back Need Care in a Long, Low Dog?
A long body on short legs and a surprisingly heavy frame put extra load on the hips, and the breed is described as prone to hip dislocation. A young dog with joint trouble may simply seem reluctant to jump onto furniture or slow on stairs, which is easy to mistake for personality. Keep your PBGV lean, use ramps or steps where you can, and mention any stiffness or skipping to your veterinarian, who can confirm the cause with X-rays.
Why Do the Ears Need Weekly Attention?
Long, low-set ears trap moisture and debris, especially after a nose-down romp through brush. Recurrent ear infections were among the most common problems reported in breed club and kennel club surveys. Check the ears weekly, dry them after swimming, and ask your veterinarian which cleaner suits your dog. Persistent head shaking, odor, or discharge deserves an exam within days rather than home remedies.
What About the Thyroid and Weight?
Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid hormone activity, was also among the most common conditions in the breed club's survey. It slows the metabolism, with weight gain, low energy, and coat changes as typical signs. A blood test confirms it, and a daily tablet manages it for life. PBGVs are food-driven, so measured meals protect the joints and the waistline alike.
What Does Managing a PBGV's Health Actually Cost?
| Condition or Need | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Annual eye exam with pressure check | $75 to $200 | Starting in early adulthood |
| Glaucoma DNA test | $65 to $150 | One-time, ideally before breeding |
| Hip and elbow X-rays | $250 to $450 | Certified evaluation |
| Ear infection treatment | $100 to $300 per episode | More if a specialist workup is needed |
| Emergency glaucoma treatment | $1,500 to $4,000 or more | May include eye removal |
Questions to Ask a Breeder Before Buying a Puppy
Ask for results on both parents, since the breed club's recommended list includes an ophthalmologist evaluation and a DNA test for primary open-angle glaucoma. Also ask about ear infection history, thyroid disease, and lifespan in the line.
Daily Life With a PBGV
This is a genuine pack hound, so expect real daily exercise, a securely fenced yard, and a loud, happy voice. The wiry double coat needs regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping or trimming, as the grooming guide explains. PBGVs are extroverted and independent, as the personality profile shows, and a strong nose and stubborn streak call for patient, consistent training.
Keeping Your PBGV Healthy for the Long Run
Book the eye exam every year, treat any sudden eye change as an emergency, keep the ears dry and checked weekly, and keep your dog lean. Pet insurance is worth pricing while your dog is young and healthy, because premiums rise with age and an eye emergency can become expensive quickly.
Final Thoughts From a Veterinarian
PBGVs usually live about 12 to 14 years. Book annual eye exams, treat a red or painful eye as urgent, keep ears dry, and protect joints and weight. Budget roughly $150 to $200 a month. Your veterinarian can tailor the plan.
Health & Costs FAQ
How much do Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen cost?
The cost of a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,000 from a reputable breeder, while adoption fees average around $300. Owners should also budget for initial supplies and ongoing veterinary care to monitor for breed-specific health issues like glaucoma and hip dysplasia.
Purchase cost: 5 / 10
How long do Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen live?
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens typically live about 12 to 14 years, and a 2024 UK study reported a life expectancy of about 13.7 years. A lean weight, regular eye exams, ear care, and routine veterinary checkups help them stay active into their senior years.
Life expectancy: 7 / 10
Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen healthy dogs?
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are generally hardy hounds but are prone to primary open-angle glaucoma, ear infections, joint strain from their long, low build, and hypothyroidism. Annual eye exams, regular ear care, and a lean weight are the key steps.
Health: 6 / 10
What health problems do Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen have?
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are prone to primary open-angle glaucoma, recurrent ear infections, hypothyroidism, and hip problems related to their long bodies and short legs. Screening breeding dogs, yearly eye exams, and weekly ear checks are the main steps.
Health problem risk: 5 / 10
Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen expensive to maintain?
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens have moderate upkeep costs. Their small size keeps food costs down and the wiry coat needs regular brushing with occasional hand-stripping or trimming, but owners should budget for yearly eye exams and ear care.
Maintenance cost: 4 / 10
How much does it cost to own a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen per month?
Expect to spend between $150 and $200 per month to own a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. This budget covers quality food, routine veterinary care, and preventative medications. While generally affordable due to their size, budgeting for pet insurance is recommended to manage potential costs related to hereditary eye conditions.
Monthly ownership cost: 4 / 10
How much does pet insurance cost for a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen?
Pet insurance for a Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen typically costs between $30 and $55 per month. Because this breed is prone to hereditary eye conditions like glaucoma and joint issues, comprehensive coverage is highly recommended to manage potential veterinary expenses and ensure your dog receives necessary specialized care.
Pet insurance cost: 3 / 10
Will homeowners insurance cover a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen?
Yes, most homeowners insurance policies cover the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, as they are not typically on restricted breed lists. As a small, friendly hound, they are considered low-risk by insurers. Always disclose your pet to your provider to ensure full liability coverage is active.
Homeowners insurance difficulty: 9 / 10
Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen on insurance restricted breed lists?
No, Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens are typically not found on insurance restricted-breed lists. As a small, friendly hound breed, they are generally viewed as low-risk by most insurers. However, always disclose your pet to your insurance provider to ensure your liability coverage remains fully active and accurate.
Insurance restriction risk: 2 / 10
Can you get renters insurance with a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen?
Yes, you can typically get renters insurance with a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. They are rarely included on restricted breed lists due to their small size and friendly nature. Most policies provide liability coverage for them, but always disclose your pet to your insurer to ensure your protection is active.
Renters insurance difficulty: 8 / 10
