Brussels Griffons

Appearance:

Body:Short, broad set body and deep chest

Coat: Wiry and dense in the Griffon Bruxellois and the Griffon Belge. Short, smooth, glossy, and flat in the Petit Brabancon

Color: Red or reddish-brown in the Griffon Bruxellois. Black, black and tan, black and red in the Griffon Belge. All colors for the Petit Brabancon.

Ears: Small, semi-erect, and carried high

Eyes: Large and wide set with long black eyelashes and with an almost human perception

Feet: Small, round, and compact with well-arched toes

Head: Large and round with domed forehead, a small black nose and profuse beard

Legs: Forelegs are straight, muscular and well-boned, hind legs are powerful with well-muscled thighs

Neck: Medium length and beautifully arched

Size:
Weight: 8 - 12 pounds (3.6 - 5.4kg)
Height: 7 - 8 inches (17 - 20cm)

Tail: Docked or natural and carried high

Behavior

Recommended for experienced dog handlers
Not recommended as an outdoor dog
Not easily housebroken

The Brussels Griffon is a snuggling, affectionate, and mischievous dog with an intense sense of curiosity and the ability to climb out of enclosures. This highly energized and sometimes clownish little dog can be a handful for a novice handler. He can be easily trained but may take a strong dislike to being controlled by a leash.

Most Griffs are well-behaved around other family dogs and animals but will try to be the boss. Though his "bark is much worse than his bite" he may appear to be very aggressive if other dogs approach his territory. Griffs are also good around older and respectful children. Because of their small size, young children could cause them injury.

He is a true and loyal breed with a need for his masters' companionship and not suited to be an outdoor dog. Because this is a sensitive dog, gentle and reward-type training is recommended. He is not a breed that will respond well to teasing or harsh treatment.

The Complete Dog Book by The American Kennel Club says "In intelligence, Griffons are second to none. They are unusually sensitive, and demand much attention and love. The Brussels Griffon is strictly a house dog."

Breed Type

AKC Group: Toy Group

Originally bred for hunting and killing rats and other vermin

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Light exercise is all that is required

Grooming: The Rough Coat Griff should be brushed weekly and hand plucked (stripped) two times a year. Smooth Griffs can be brushed one to two times a week and bathed as needed.

Health

Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 Years

Possible Problems:
Heart Murmurs
Legg-Perthes
Luxating Patella
Seizures

The Brussels Griffon isn't fond of cold climates. In colder or rainy areas be sure to provide a sweater or coat to keep him dry and warm and free from respiratory problems. Keep him out of the direct sun in hot climates to avoid heatstroke.

Country of Origin

Belgium - 1800s