Meet Janice Hayes: Master Breeder of Stellar Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGVs)

Behind every great Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a keen eye, endless patience, and a breeding plan. Janice Hayes of Stellar PBGVs shares the hard-earned lessons behind her journey from junior handler to handling assistant to Westminster Best In Show-winning handler, and now a world-class breeder. You’ll learn: Why patience is non-negotiable in a successful PBGV breeding program How important the professional handler-breeder relationship is What pedigree knowledge really means in practice Why timing can matter more than talent How trust and collaboration shape lasting breeding legacies This is a rare, honest look at the mindset behind world-class breeder — from the ring to the whelping box. 👉 Watch the full episode to hear the Stellar Story firsthand. Timestamps: 00:30 Introduction to Janice Hayes 01:45 First inspiration and junior handling years 08:13 From handler to breeder mindset 17:53 Choosing the PBGV as her breed 24:10 Building the foundation breeding lines 33:56 Small breed challenges and pedigree depth 39:33 Creating distance within a small breed 45:11 Learning pedigrees by hands-on experience 52:46 Buddy Holly and the Westminster win 57:43 Incorporating Buddy Holly into breeding 1:01:16 How pedigree guides breeding decisions 1:08:39 Defining the ideal PBGV type 1:11:42 The hardest breed traits to attain 1:15:10 Future direction of the breeding program 1:19:14 Handler and breeder relationship 1:23:50 Why breeders must focus on the next generation 1:27:54 Educating the public and using social media 1:31:01 The most significant challenge in the breed 1:32:44 What should breeders focus on today 1:41:47 Breeders who shaped her philosophy 1:44:00 What is Janice most proud of 1:58:02 Advice for aspiring breeders 2:02:01 Legacy of Stellar PBGVs 2:03:38 Where to find Janice #PurebredDogs #BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows #JaniceHayes #StellarPBGVs #PetitBassetGriffonVendeen #PBGVDogs #WestminsterDogShow #WestminsterKennelClub #WKCDogShow #WestminsterWinner