Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pet Insurance | Savvy 

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Find out all about Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

Written by , updated on September 14th, 2023

Price range

$3,000+

Height

34–38cm

Weight

15–20kg

Personality

Lively, affectionate, playful

Coat length

Medium, double coat, rough

Exercise needs

High

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

12–14 years

Overview

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, often referred to as the PBGV, is a breed originating from France. These vivacious hounds have a rich history rooted in hunting, particularly in the Vendée region from which they get their name. Developed to hunt small game like rabbits, their keen sense of smell and boundless energy made them exceptional hunting companions. The PBGV is a compact yet sturdy breed with a shaggy, coarse coat that provides protection while working in rugged terrains.

Distinctive for their lively and cheerful temperament, PBGVs make wonderful family pets. They are known for their social nature and get along well with children and other dogs. Due to their hunting background, they may have a strong prey drive, so early socialisation and supervision around smaller animals are advisable. While their independent streak can sometimes present training challenges, their intelligence and eagerness to please make them a delightful addition to the right household.

The PBG is a breed that thrives on companionship and activity. Their love for the outdoors and zest for life means they enjoy playtime and exercise. Families that can provide mental stimulation, regular walks, and play sessions will find a devoted and affectionate companion in the PBGV.

Common diseases and conditions of Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens

Hip dysplasia: this is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. It can lead to arthritis and mobility issues. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage this condition.
Eye issues: PBGVs can be prone to various eye conditions such as retinal dysplasia, glaucoma and corneal dystrophy. These can lead to vision impairment or even blindness if not monitored and treated.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD): this is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine degenerate, leading to pain and potential paralysis. Proper weight management and avoiding activities that strain the back can help prevent this condition.
Hypothyroidism: this is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to weight gain, skin issues, and lethargy. It’s important to monitor thyroid function through regular veterinary check-ups.
Patellar luxation: this occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing lameness and discomfort. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Epilepsy: some PBGVs may be prone to epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterised by seizures. Medication and careful management can help control this condition.

Breed-specific issues:

PBGVs are known for their vocal tendencies, which can pose challenges in close living quarters or urban environments. Additionally, their intelligence and independent nature can sometimes translate into stubbornness, making consistent training essential. Due to their hunting background, they possess a strong prey drive, potentially leading to challenges in recall training and interactions with small animals. PBGVs also have moderate to high exercise needs, and neglecting these requirements can result in restlessness and even destructive behaviour.

How much does pet insurance cost for a Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your PBGV, including the following:

Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.
Type of insurance you choose: there are three basic types of pet insurance available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most.
The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.
Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits which apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.
Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies, up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover.
Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, whilst others do.
Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Accident-only

This is the most basic type of pet insurance, covering costs for accidental injuries such as car accidents, poisoning, burns, fractures, snake and spider bites, but not illnesses and other conditions.

Accident and illness

This type of insurance provides cover for accidental injuries as well as illnesses like cancer, gastrointestinal problems and eye, ear and skin conditions, but not routine care for your pet.

Comprehensive

This offers the highest level of protection, covering accident and illness and potentially routine care such as vaccinations, dental care, worm and flea treatments and microchipping.

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Common questions about Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens

Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens good with children?

Yes – PBGVs are generally good with children. They are known for being patient and tolerant, and have a playful and sociable nature that often meshes well with the energy and curiosity of youngsters. However, it's important to remember that all interactions should be supervised, especially with very young children. Additionally, early socialisation and positive experiences with children can help solidify the PBGV's natural affinity for youngsters.

What are the grooming needs for a Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen?

PBGVs have a dense, rough coat that requires regular maintenance to keep it in optimal condition. Brushing at least a few times a week is essential to prevent matting and tangles, especially in areas prone to friction or moisture build-up.

Regular attention to their ears and eyes is also important. Checking for debris or signs of infection can help prevent issues from escalating. Their ears, in particular, should be kept clean and dry to avoid potential problems.

Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens suitable for first-time dog owners?

No – while they are intelligent and affectionate, PBGVs have an independent streak and can be somewhat stubborn. They may require experienced handling, so they may not be the best choice for first-time owners. Those who are drawn to the breed should be prepared to invest time in training and socialisation, and consider seeking guidance from experienced trainers or breed enthusiasts.

Are Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens vocal?

Yes – PBGVs are known for their lively and vocal nature. This characteristic is deeply rooted in their history as scent hounds, where they used their voices to alert hunters to the location of game. While this trait can be endearing, it's important to note that they may not be suited to living in environments where excessive noise could be a concern.

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Disclaimer and important things you should know

Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd (ABN 78 660 493 194) trades as Savvy and operates as an Authorised Credit Representative 541339 of Australian Credit Licence 414426 (AFAS Group Pty Ltd, ABN 12 134 138 686). We are one of Australia’s leading financial comparison sites and have been helping Australians make savvy decisions when it comes to their money for over a decade.

We’re partnered with lenders, insurers and other financial institutions who compensate us for business initiated through our website. We earn a commission each time a customer chooses or buys a product advertised on our site, which you can find out more about here, as well as in our credit guide for asset finance. It’s also crucial to read the terms and conditions, Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or credit guide of our partners before signing up for your chosen product. However, the compensation we receive doesn’t impact the content written and published on our website, as our writing team exercises full editorial independence.

For more information about us and how we conduct our business, you can read our privacy policy and terms of use.