Dogs took over New York City as 210 different breeds and competed for top honors at the 2023 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Winston, a French Bulldog, won in 2022 and was expected to repeat his victory again this year. But it was a surprise upset by one unique hound, Buddy Holly, who would take home the coveted prize.

At first glance, Buddy Holly appears to be a shaggy-haired Basset Hound mix. And while that’s not very far off, he is a Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen (more easily referred to as Petits in the United States).

The French breed is a scent hound traditionally used for hunting rabbits. Like many other hounds, they have become known for their jovial disposition and patience, particularly with children. Because they are bred to hunt in packs, they are easily socialized and tend to get along very well with other dogs and animals – making them an ideal choice for a family with children and other pets.

Don’t let their low stature fool you though, Petits are full of energy. It’s what makes them great dogs in the hunting field. They require a lot of mental stimulation and exercise, or they could end up following their nose into some trouble. They tend to be stubborn, making it difficult to train them. Patience will be key in dealing with a Petit. As with most hounds, they are quite vocal as well and enjoy any excuse to let loose one of those classic hound-type howls.

Though they require a lot of physical maintenance, grooming is another story. Their fur is a bit shaggy, but it is coarse or even wiry. As such, shedding is minimal and regular baths and weekly brushing are sufficient in keeping their coat healthy and shiny. Keep trimming the coat to a minimum unless matting becomes an issue. Take note that their coat type can be an acquired taste and difficult for first-time owners to manage if they are not educated.

Petits are sturdy dogs and a reputable breeder can produce a Petit with very few health problems. The issues most commonly associated with Petits are nothing out of the ordinary – hip dysplasia, eye ulcers, and neck pain syndrome can all occur. However, Petits are prone to becoming overweight which can put a lot of stress on their joints. Take good care to put your Petit on a high-quality diet that best fits his needs.

Overall, these low-riding hounds have a welcoming personalities and are happy to tag along on all your adventures. Lay the foundation for obedience work early in their lives to develop good habits and strong recall – we all know hounds love to follow their noses wherever it may lead.