AKC Toy Group
History
In the early 1800s, small terriers were often kept as ratters in stables in Belgium. The Brussels Griffon probably resulted from crosses between these native ratter terriers and the Pug and English Toy Spaniel. In the 1800s, the breed was popular as a cab guardian and mascot, dissuading robbers and attracting customers. In the early 1900s the Brussels Griffon became very popular, especially with the upper class. Today’s Brussels Griffon is primarily a companion dog.
Description
The Brussels Griffon is a sturdy toy dog of square proportions with a domed head, undershot jaw, very short nose, and large eyes. The Brussels Griffon’s pout gives him an almost human expression. To some viewers he resembles a miniature Boxer. There are two types: Rough-Coated (harsh wiry and dense) and Smooth-Coated or Petit Brabancon variety (short, straight, glossy). The Brabancon needs less grooming. Comes in red, a mixture of red-brown and black, black and tan, and solid black. Ears may or may not be cropped. The tail is docked.
Key Facts
- Height: 8 to 11 in.
- Size: Very small
- Weight: 8 to 12 lbs.
- Availability: Very difficult to find
- Talents: Watchdog and performing tricks
Notes
Difficult to breed. Dams often require Caesarean section for whelping. May be a gluttonous or picky eater. Can be difficult to housebreak. Some bloodlines are prone to slipped stifle, and eye and respiratory problems.
Personality
Intelligent, willful, and high strung—but charming. Unusually sensitive and quite demanding, this breed loves to be spoiled. Must be raised in the house with the family. Good with other dogs and even with cats.
Behavior
- Children: Best with older, considerate children
- Friendliness: Loves everyone
- Trainability: Easy to train
- Independence: Needs people a lot
- Dominance: High
- Other Pets: Generally good with other pets
- Combativeness: Not generally dog aggressive
- Noise: Likes to bark
- Indoors: Very active indoors
- Owner: Good for novice owners
Care
- Grooming: Regular grooming needed
- Trimming and Stripping: Skilled trimming or stripping needed
- Coat: Medium coat
- Shedding: Very light
- Docking: The ears are customarily cropped, and the tail is customarily docked
- Exercise: Very little exercise needed
- Jogging: A poor jogging companion
- Apartments: Good for apartment living
- Outdoor Space: Does all right without a yard
- Climate: Does well in most climates
- Longevity: Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years)
Useful Links
AKC® Brussels Griffon Breed Standard
http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BrusselsGriffon.pdf
Brussels Griffon Breed Profile
iams.com/pet-health/dog-breed-guide/brussels-griffon
Brussels Griffon Breed Club
Search for a Breeder
akc.org/classified/search/landing_breed.cfm
Rescue Organizations
akc.org/dog-breeds/rescue-network/contacts/
