Brussels Griffon Dog Breed

The Brussels Griffon (also known as Griffon Bruxellois for those with rough coat and Griffon Brabancon for those with smooth coat) has a sturdy terrier-like body similar to the Affenpinscher with a docked tail and a face that somewhat resembles a cute, little monkey.  His coat can be smooth or rough; the smooth coat is short, glossy, and straight while the rough coat is wiry, hard, and also short.  He has a terrier-like behavior, though he is not as stubborn or high-strung.  He is an attractive and happy dog that is very affectionate with his owner.  In addition, he is hardy, intelligent, obedient, and long-lived.

The Brussels Griffon was originally used as a guard dog in his native land in Belgium.  He was also used to catch vermin in stable yards until eventually catching the eye of the royalty and became a fashionable house dog.  He is a good watch dog and a little reserve with strangers.  He could be aggressive toward other dogs and smaller animals; therefore, socialization should begin early on in puppy hood.  Training should also begin early and needs to be consistent and precise.  As an owner of his breed, you need to be a patient and precise leader who enjoys a busy and energetic dog.

Size:  The Brussels Griffon stands approximately 9-10in at the shoulder and weighs between 9-12lb.

History and origin:  This breed was developed in Belgium in the 18th and 19th centuries and was first exhibited at the Brussels Exhibition in 1880.  He is a mixture of Affenpinscher to which he bears a facial similarity and the Pug which many believe is responsible for the smooth-coat type.  The first known enthusiastic Griffon owner was Queen Astrid of the Belgians.  This breed was very popular in his native land during the beginning of Word War I, but the breeding was severely affected when the war broke out.  The Brussels Griffon eventually found his way to most countries all over the world with a slight variation.  He is mostly recognized with cropped ears in his native land.

Feeding:  Recommended feeding for this breed is about ½ can of quality meat product with added biscuit of the same amount or 1-1 ½ cupfuls of dry food.

Exercise:  Similar to most toy breeds, the Brussels Griffon adapts very well to an apartment life provided he gets enough walk on a regular basis.

Grooming:  Whether his coat is smooth or rough; both types shed little and need periodic brushing and a clip every 3-4 months.  Show dogs needs to be hand-stripped in order to preserve the texture and luster of the coat.  His nails should also be trimmed on a regular basis.