Basset Griffon Vendeen: 2019 Crufts Reserve Best in Show

As March 2019 ended, the professional dog showing and breeding communities were buzzing about the renowned Crufts Dog Show held at Birmingham's NEC arena, an event broadcast worldwide that often highlights rare dog breeds. That year, a Papillon named Dylan won Best in Show, but the Reserve Best in Show spot shone on a delightful Basset Griffon Vendeen (petit) named Magic Mike, a breed less known to American dog enthusiasts despite its rich hunting heritage.

Getting to Know the Basset Griffon Vendeen

The Basset Griffon Vendeen (BGV) is a unique French scent hound prized for its tenacity in hunting, rough coat, and spirited personality. The breed mainly splits into two types: the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen (PBGV) and the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen.

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a compact to medium-sized dog, standing roughly 13 to 15 inches tall and weighing between 30 and 40 pounds. Its weather-resistant, wiry coat usually has a white base with lemon, orange, or tricolored markings, requiring regular grooming. Notable features include long ears close to the cheeks and expressive eyes with marked eyebrows, adding to its lively yet gentle look.

Energetic, loving, and social, the Petit has a strong scenting instinct and prey drive. While smart enough to grasp basic commands, they may show a bit of stubbornness and respond best to positive, reward-based training. They thrive on daily exercise and interactive play, forming friendly bonds with children and other pets. Their vocal enthusiasm and spirited nature, however, might need careful supervision around very young kids.

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen is a bigger, more robust version with a longer body and straight legs, sharing the dense rough coat. It remains active outdoors but tends to be calmer indoors after sufficient exercise. Both varieties don't shed excessively but require moderate grooming to maintain their coat health.

Magic Mike's 2019 Crufts Reserve Best in Show Win

Magic Mike, a Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen from Oxfordshire with champion lineage, captivated the dog world by earning Reserve Best in Show honors at Crufts 2019. At four years of age during his win, he represents a top-tier example of his breed's attributes, showcasing its charm, agility, and distinctiveness. His success sparked added interest among dog show enthusiasts in the U.S.

Popularity and Searching for a Basset Griffon Vendeen in the U.S.

Although Magic Mike's win boosted the breed's profile, the Basset Griffon Vendeen remains an uncommon dog across America. The Petit variety, in particular, is rarely found, making puppy availability limited and often requiring patience and waitlists at reputable U.S. breeders. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) which has helped maintain breed standards since 1991.

Prices for Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen puppies in the U.S. tend to be in the few thousand dollar range, reflecting their rarity and quality care from responsible breeders. Unlike the UK market where average prices may be under $1,000, U.S. availability is lower, and demand is typically met with higher costs at quality breeders. Prospective owners should be prepared for waits and prioritize breeders focusing on health, temperament, and AKC registration.

Responsible Buying and Ownership Tips

Prospective owners interested in welcoming a Basset Griffon Vendeen into their family should conduct thorough research before acquiring one. Engaging closely with breeders about the health screenings of parent dogs—such as tests for hereditary conditions common to the breed—is crucial.

This breed thrives in an active, outdoor-friendly lifestyle with substantial socialization and daily exercise. They suit individuals or families able to dedicate time to their training and play needs. Their affectionate temperament and compatibility with children make them rewarding companions when placed in the right environment.

To summarize, the Basset Griffon Vendeen is a lively and captivating breed whose reputation was elevated by Magic Mike's 2019 Crufts success. This distinct hound offers a fulfilling pet experience for devoted owners seeking an active, clever, and engaging dog.