Brussels Griffon Dogs

Brussels Griffon dogs, also known as Belgian Griffon or Petit Brabançon, are one of the toy dog breeds to consider if you enjoy close and loving pet companions and your lifestyle is such they won't be left alone too often!

This is an old dog breed, and a very intelligent one, from around the 15th century. There are no specific details of its ancestry, though the list of breeds that probably played a part in its development is quite broad. 

Among the most likely candidates are the German Affenpinscher, Belgian Griffon, Pug, Yorkshire Terrier, King Charles Spaniel and Pekingese. Certainly some of the physical attributes of these dogs can be seen in the Griffon as he is recognized today.

These small dogs, often called Griff or simply Griffon, are squarely built and of a solid appearance. Originally they had a more terrier-like appearance than they do today.

Many describe their expression as humorous and often refer them as having a face that is reminiscent of a monkey. If it bears any resemblance to the Simian family, it is a very charming one, with a hint of cheekiness!

Famous owners of the breed include Queen Astrid of Belgium who was such an ardent admirer of Brussels Griffon dogs that she started a kennel to develop her own line.  This brought a spotlight on the breed and over time, led to many Griffs being imported into England and America.

One Griffon named Jill gained fame for her appearance as Verdell in the comedy movie As Good As It Gets with Jack Nicholson - gaining the Griff another surge in popularity.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1910. 

Appearance and Coat Care

Height: 7-8 inches
Weight: 6-12 pounds
Coat Colors: Red, Beige, Black and Tan or Black
Group: Toy

These small dogs have wiry coarse coats, although there is also a smooth-coated variety. The smooth, aka "brabancon" type, is easy to maintain by weekly brushing though it does have a heavier seasonal shedding twice a year which lasts about two weeks.

The rough variety should be hand stripped to maintain its wiry look. Although owners can learn this technique, it is a bit tricky and they may wish to use the services of a professional groomer.

Clipping is also an option for Brussels Griffon dogs that are not being shown, but the coat may take on a different texture. Everyday shedding is generally on the light side.

Health of Brussels Griffon Dogs

The most common problems that have been noted for Brussels Griffon dogs, include conditions relating to the eyes and nose due to his facial configuration.

The Griff has a flat short muzzle, somewhat resembling the Pug, with prominent eyes and a small nose. Similar to other flat and narrow-nosed dogs, the Griffon can run into breathing difficulties especially on hot sunny days making heat stroke a serious threat.

Health issues that are associates with Brussels Griffon dogs include:

• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome:  A disease causing airway obstructions due to a nasal deformity which results in respiratory issues, including mouth breathing and snoring. The disease tends to get worse with age.

• Patella Luxation aka Slipping Kneecap: As the name implies, this involves a dislocation of the kneecap to varying degrees and is usually an inherited defect and more common in toy or smaller breeds. Responsible breeders will screen more than one generation of parents for this condition, before breeding, as well as the resulting puppies, before they are offered for purchase. An early sign of Patella Luxation is limping. 

• Hip Dysplasia: A genetic joint disease that results from the malformation of the hips and is characterized by joint weakness, stiffness, and pain caused. Depending on the severity of the condition, a veterinarian may advise pain medication or surgery.

• Corneal Ulcers: This is a serious eye condition and very painful. It is similar to an eye abrasion, but an ulcer can be quite deep into the cornea. It requires immediate veterinary attention to prevent severe complications.

• Other eye diseases to be aware of include Cataracts and Glaucoma.

Some of these issues are fairly common conditions with most dogs as they age.

These are the health tests recommended by the National Breed Club:

• Patella Evaluation
• Hip Evaluation
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation

The Brussels Griffon has very exposed eye surfaces, making it vulnerable to irritations from airborne substances or scratches from protruding branches and plant foliage while out on walks.

Lacerations to the eyes can be very damaging and should be treated promptly.

With the benefit of good home care, adequate exercise, a high quality diet and regular check-ups with a veterinarian, pet parents can expect to enjoy their cheerful little Griff for up to 15 years.

Characteristics Of Brussels Griffon

Very lively and affectionate. A good little companion that is cheerful, confident, really likes attention and is somewhat self-important.

Although temperament can vary, some of these dogs can be a bit shy around strangers, cautious in new situations or easily startled. While they are not considered timid, it's important to properly socialize your Griffon while young to accustom him to a variety of everyday situations, different people, loud noises and other pets.

This little dog can be a bit stubborn and independent, so you'll need to be more consistent and patient in regard to training, but he does need to see that you are a firm yet kindly leader.

Activity Level 

You won't need to exercise this dog very much since his 'generally busy' activity level - a carry over trait from his former "ratting" days, remains high, although he does enjoy a good romp out in the open.

A daily walk is always recommended for the fresh air and for the mental and physical health benefits to both dog and his human!

Ideal Space For Griffons

As you've no doubt concluded, the very small size of the Brussels Griffon makes it an ideal pet for small living quarters such as apartments or condos - even travel trailers.

Of course if you have several pets, then he would probably like to have his own space - even his own room!

The Griffon With Children?

Brussels Griffon dogs are very sensitive and delicate, but they are also strong-willed. If mishandled, during play for example, they will defend themselves - well you can't blame them can you?

With that thought in mind, putting them together with young children is probably not the best combination to avoid any injuries to either one!

Griffs are not lap dogs and tend to attach to one person in the home. Families with pet-loving older children would be a better match and supervision is always advised when they interact.

With Senior Families?

Brussels Griffon dogs make very favorable companions for seniors, home-bound, or more sedentary owners due to their affectionate nature and bonding traits, as well as low exercise needs.

They also will sound the alarm if they hear anything unfamiliar or see any strangers approaching.

Find A Brussels Griffon to Buy Or Rescue

If you are looking for a purebred Brussels Griffon puppy, check out the links below as a starting point in finding a reputable breeder with a successful record of BG litters.

TIP: You'll want to know, and a reliable breeder will provide, the parents health history and encourage you to meet them. 

You'll have a better chance of getting a healthy puppy if you avoid casual breeders, along with pet shops and puppy mills, because they are generally only focused on making sales based on the breed's popularity. 

Here are some places to begin your search: 

• Available puppies can be found through the AKC Marketplace
• American Brussels Griffon Association  maintains a breeder list and available puppies. 
• National Brussels Griffon Rescue  Lists available rescues

Bear in mind that the Griff is not a common breed and not many puppies are born each year, so you may have to join a wait list.

The cost to purchase an Brussels Griffon puppy is between $1,000 to $3,500. The cost can be influenced by reputation of the breeder, lineage, coat color, and health testing results.

In calculating your budget, don't forget the other expenses in owning a dog for its lifetime. Such as: required dog license, vaccinations, everyday food costs, insurance, routine vet visits, training, crate, toys, grooming tools and supplies etc. It all adds up.

With regard to health insurance - it's more cost effective to buy insurance for a puppy before health concerns show up. It's also the best hedge against the rising cost of veterinary care and unexpected health issues.

If you are intending to adopt a rescue, check with local shelters and breed-specific clubs where you are may find lovable Griffs longing for a new home. 

Do your research before meeting a breeder so you know what to ask.

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