The P.B.G.V. is first, and foremost, a hound.  Definitely not a lap dog, and is nothing, in character or form, like a Basset Hound.  A Petit loves action and adventure.  If there is no action or adventure happening, he/she will find it or cause it.  This dog cannot stand still for very long and would make a very poor apartment dog.  The Petit uses his voice very freely, he barks, howls, and sings with abandon.  He is, after all, a hunting dog.   However, the Petit is charming, friendly, intelligent, and a very happy companion.  This dog is very aware of subtle changes in his environment.  All in all, a very delightful and clever dog.
     If you wish to be an owner of one of these fascinating creatures, you need to have a large fenced space, preferably no neighbors (unless they own P.B.G.V.s) and a realization that these dogs love to dig.  You need to be willing to put in time playing, exercising and training your dog.  The Petits are a very high energy animal.  This energy must have an outlet. If you are, or are interested in, hunting with your dog, this is a hunting dog that hunts by instinct, little training for the hunting part is needed.  You will need to work on socialization of your Petit.  He is an independent soul, not needing human contact as much as other breeds of dog.  Obedience training is a very important aspect also.  The Petit is very willing to please you, and is easily corrected.  However, if the dog has found a scent and is following it, it may be difficult, if not impossible, to get the dog to come to you at your command.  The Petit knows its name, and what you want, but... hunting is so much more fun, and more interesting... he'll get back to you later.
     If you are one of the many people who allow their dogs to roam free in the neighborhood, you will lose your Petit.
     The Petit possesses a coarse, rough coat. Grooming needs are a weekly brushing, comb out, nail trim, check of the ears (very important), and dental care.  This is for the working or pet dog, however, if you wish to show your Petit in conformation, this requires more work, and a sense of humor.  An acquaintance was showing her Petit and had him groomed to perfection, every hair in place.  Just before ring time, the Petit was placed from the grooming table to the floor, and the dog gave himself a good shake, as if to say "thank goodness that's over" and instantly the coat went from perfection to casual.
     Lastly, the ears of a Petit need some special extra attention.  This dog is built low to the ground and has "hound" ears.  The Petit will pick up all matter of debris, burrs, sticks, leaves, whatever will fit.  The owner of a Petit would do well to check daily on the condition of his dog's ears.  Usually, just a visual check is all that's needed, unless you know that the dog has been in the woods lately.

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