The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a short little dog with a long hairy body and a carefree attitude. The "PBGV" as the breed is known by the shortened nickname, is a member of a group of four varieties of scent hounds called Griffons which were developed in the area of Vendee in southern France. The breed was introduced into the United States in 1991, being admitted into the Hound Group at A.K.C. shows. He made an instant hit with his unique long and low basset appearance but covered with rough and unruly hair. In Canada and Great Britain they had made their appearance years before and were known as "roughies".