Brussels Griffon

Small but mighty, the Brussels Griffon is a sturdy and compact breed. They walk with determination and carry themselves proudly, full of self-assurance. Their bright and alert eyes give them a distinctly human-like appearance. Their fur can either be rough and wiry, especially around the head, or it can be short, sleek, and shiny.

Quick Info

Size
Small
Colours
Belge, black, black and tan, or red
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
9 to 11 inches
Type
Toy
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
8 to 10 pounds
Family
Pinscher

Personality

Brussels Griffon dogs are lively and full of spirit, carrying a confidence that seems larger than their small size. These dogs are brave, playful, amusing, and smart, making them great friends with people and other pets. They are known for their barking and their ability to climb. Families looking for a small, fun, and entertaining pet will surely be charmed by the Brussels Griffon.

History

The Brussels Griffon originated in Belgium, probably created from a mix of Affenpinschers and local street dogs. These charming but spirited dogs were known for their boldness, often protecting cabs from thieves. In the late 19th century, they were bred with Pugs, giving the Brussels Griffon its unique facial features. By the early 1900s, the breed captured the hearts of the aristocracy, leading to its rise in popularity both in Belgium and other countries. Although "Griffon" translates to "wiry," there is also a version with a smooth coat.

Ideal Owner

The perfect owners for a Brussels Griffon should be patient and have a good sense of humor to handle this spirited little dog. They need to be lively and enthusiastic, willing to invest time in training, as these dogs can take a while to learn house training. Brussels Griffons require plenty of mental and physical activity to keep them happy and worn out, so those who can dedicate effort and time to their care will be the most suitable.

Exercise Needs

The Brussels Griffon may be small in size, but it is full of energy, particularly when it comes to using its mind. This breed loves to explore and is eager for fun, especially alongside its owners. To keep them happy and engaged, their daily activities should include running freely, solving puzzles, playing with toys, and going for walks on a leash.

Space Requirements

The Brussels Griffon is a tiny breed, making it very suitable for life in the city, provided they can go outside often, particularly to run around. They thrive in houses with fenced yards that are safe, as they can be quite clever at finding ways to escape if given the chance!

Training

Brussels Griffons are active and spirited dogs that require both physical exercise and mental challenges to feel happy. They love engaging in activities typically associated with larger breeds, like running, hiking, agility courses, learning tricks, and playing fetch. Keeping their minds busy is crucial for tiring them out, as they have sharp intellects. These dogs are keen to make their owners happy, but they may need some encouragement through positive rewards. Training a Brussels Griffon calls for patience and a good sense of humor from their owners.

Grooming

The term "Griffon" refers to a "wiry" texture, which describes the dog's coarse fur. Brussels Griffon dogs require frequent brushing to keep their coats in good shape and may also need professional grooming a few times each year. On the other hand, the smooth-coated Brussels Griffon, which has shorter fur, only needs an occasional brushing to get rid of loose hair. Both types of coats do lose some hair.

Suitability for Family Life

When Brussels Griffon dogs are introduced to different people and situations early on, they can become great companions for families with older kids or those without children. These dogs enjoy being part of family events and are known for their loving nature. They can also be quite protective of their home and loved ones. However, their energetic personality might not be suitable for families with young children.

Did You know?

The Brussels Griffon has a short-haired type known as the Petit Brabancon. This breed was first developed in Belgium to guard taxi drivers.

Similar Breeds

Maltese
Miniature Pinscher
Pekingese

Need to Know

Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
Basic training required
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys active walks
Small dog
Require regular grooming
Requires frequent grooming
Chatty and vocal dog