Is there a new “it” breed of dog? That may be the question some people are asking now that Buddy Holly, a Petit Basset Griffon Vanden, took home the top prize at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Tuesday. It marked the first time that a dog representing the hound breed, particularly known for its rabbit-hunting skills, received the best in show award at the event, which has been awarded since 1907. Indeed, the Petit Basset is the Griffon Vanden. A little-known dog, it ranks as the 154th most popular breed in the US (French Bulldogs are No. 1). “I never thought PBGV would do this,” Buddy Holly Handler and co-owner Janice Hayes told The Associated Press, referring to the breed by its namesake. So, what is there to know about the new top dog breed? Read next: What is the origin of the Petit Basset Griffon Vanden? As the name suggests, this breed comes from France – specifically the Vendée, a region in the western part of the country. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says that, along with 27 other hunting breeds, the PBGV is still bred in France today “for its original purpose: to hunt by scent.” The AKC notes that in the early 20th century, Paul Dezami, who was president of a club dedicated to the breed, established standards for them. But those specifications apply to both the large (or “grand”) and small (or “minor”) versions. By the 1950s, “the PGBV received its own standard and was treated as a separate breed,” says the AKC. What are the characteristics of caste? According to the Dogtime website, these are dogs with a “rough, rough outline and distinctive long eyebrows, beards and whiskers.” Size-wise, they run between 13 and 15 inches with long bodies—about the right fit for tracking small game like rabbits. They obviously pack a lot of personality into their frames. Dogtime describes them as “active, happy, curious and highly intelligent” and “dogs that crave people’s attention”. But there is a warning that they may “keep their minds” and try to escape. “An electric fence will not stop a PBGV that has spotted a rabbit or squirrel,” says Dogtime. What do owners and fans say about the breed? They are quick to sing the praises of the dog’s good looks — “like a basset hound, but furry,” one owner notes on Twitter. And their cute demeanor, too: they’re “little comedians,” says another. However, on dog forums, some warn that they can be a bit smelly and many dog websites note their barking prowess. Buddy Holly, the prize-winning Petit Basset Griffon Vanden, at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Tuesday. Getty Images. What else should you consider if you are considering one as a pet? They typically live between 11 and 14 years, according to the DogBreedsList site. And they need an owner who is willing to give them lots of exercise, says the YourPure Breedpuppy site. Their coats also require regular brushing. “Contrary to what some breeders say, these dogs do shed and are not hypoallergenic,” adds Yourpurebredpuppy.com. What is the price of a Petit Basset Griffon Vanden? According to DogBreedlist, expect a reputable breeder to charge $1,200 to $1,600, although you can always see if there is one available for adoption from a shelter. But the absolute price still makes the breed more affordable than the wildly popular French Bulldogs, which run up to $3,000.
