Winter 2016  Saber Tails 79    

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Club of America

I 

have gone to this show the past six years, three times I’ve shown dogs and three times I haven’t.  Obviously, I tremen-

dously enjoy the shows, but I also love seeing friends who I otherwise only know through Facebook.  This show and the 

National Specialty represent the only times of the year I can get together with people who share my passion for PBGVs 

from all over the world.  What a treat this year to meet Dhana and Alvin from Singapore and to spend time laughing with 

friends from New York, Minnesota, Alabama, California, Canada, Florida and everywhere in between.  The socializing is 

probably the biggest reason I know I will always enjoy this show.  What a great group of enthusiasts this breed has!

P

BGVs were well-represented all week with a steady number in the 30’s competing every day.  For many of us, majors 

(shows worth between 3-5 points) are very difficult to find in our home kennel club shows.  I am very happy that 

there were majors for girls (bitches) at all six shows.  Although the majors didn’t hold for boys, there were cross-over 

opportunities and Best of Winners was awarded to the best dog (male) in all six shows, meaning majors were picked up 

by both sexes at every show.  

I 

was there this year primarily as an observer and can honestly say that the competition is getting tight!  I’ve been 

involved with the breed over 10 years, but am amazed at how much better and more consistent our dogs are today.  

There aren’t as many “types” represented in the ring as there used to be.  There are still some longer, finer boned, etc. but 

the extremes are becoming less extreme and I believe the conformation quality is improving.  I think we can be proud of 

how we are doing as breeders and know that we are headed in the right direction.  Thursday’s judge, Mr. William deVil-

leneuve, commented that the PBGVs were the most difficult breed he had to judge for the day.  He was obviously excited 

by what he saw and seemed genuinely pleased to be so perplexed about his awards.  He told me that he wished he had 

Homer trying his best 

to behave...

Pinot says...”give me 

that treat!”

Marty all groomed and ready 

for the ring

Peter Parker showing the 

judge why he should be BOB

What are you looking at?!?

Who doesn’t love Disney?

Presents from Royal Canin 

and other sponsors

Janice with Annie Mac

Cindy Wood watch-

ing ringside

Taylor getting ready

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