The Brussels Griffon dog breed was first bred in the stables of Belgium with the single purpose of hunting vermin.
These spunky-looking playful breed of dogs were crossbred with the pugs, later on, to form the current Brussels Griffon dog with their comical appearance.
They were then companions of cab drivers. They look a lot like a pug, especially around their faces.
They are known for their extremely loyal and loving nature, combined with their playful, protective, and curious features attract the attention of just about everyone.
With their smooth or wire-like coat, these breeds were nicknamed “velcro dogs.” One thing you should be aware of the Brussels Griffon is that they do not like to be left alone.
Some health conditions can affect your Brussels Griffon, like cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, or a bony malformation at the base of their skull, called Chiari-like malformation.
About The Breed
The Brussels Griffon is known as the monkey face dog. They are known to be gluttonous and sometimes picky at what they eat.
It is therefore important to measure their food. They are a stubborn breed and are hard to train. It will take lots of patience and consistency to tame these little dogs.
Don’t be blinded by their small and cute figures, these dogs make excellent guard dogs with their tendency to bark at anything and everything.
This can also turn out to be extremely noisy, but you can train them to stop barking when you order them not to.
The Griffons are not an aggressive breed, they need to be treated with gentleness and kindness, or they will turn into fear biters.
The Griffons are meant to lurk around in the house, not the yard, because they are prone to heat strokes and are generally vulnerable to different seasons.
Griffons gained popularity when they appeared in the film “As Good As It Gets.” These dogs are the gentlest souls; they can get a bit bossy around you but will be too shy around strangers.
Brussels Griffon Dog Breed History
The Brussel Griffons are known to have existed since over 200 years ago. An original inhabitant of the city of Brussels in Belgium, they are small and hairy.
They were the first favorites of farmers and peasants, whom they helped by catching vermin. They then became the companions of cab drivers, where they played the role of theft deterrents.
The first known dog who made such valuable friendship was Griffon d’Ecurie, a wirEy stable dog. In the 1800s, the wirey stable dogs were bred with the pug dog breed.
It is through this crossing that the Brussel Griffons had their magnificently interesting and comical face.
They were later bred with other dog breeds such as the Affenpinscher, the English toy spaniels, and the Yorkshire Terrier; this various crossbreeding resulted in the Brussels Griffon we have now.
They are fearless, extremely brave, and adventurous, likely a remnant of their past job as rat hunters.
These dogs, also called the “velcro dog,” are small, loyal, playful, and protective. They are naturally clingy and would never leave your side.
They are both excellent guard dogs as well as the best companion pets.
The breed went from becoming the favorite of the proletariat to a rare breed that is not as popular as other toy breeds.
They, however, gained popularity when they were introduced in several movies and have since maintained their position.
Brussels Griffon Dog Breed Job Card/Overview
| Breed Name | Brussels Griffon |
| Other Name | Belgian Griffon; Petit Brabançon; Griffon Belge; Griffon Bruxellois |
| Dog Breed Type | Purebred |
| Origin | Belgium |
| Parent Breeds | Brussels Griffon |
| Height | 7 – 8 Inches |
| Weight | 7 – 12 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12 – 15 years |
| Coat Type | Smooth or wirey coat |
| Common Colors | Black; black and tan; red and beige |
| Grooming Needs | Hard and regular grooming |
| Shedding | Non to minimal shedding |
| Temperament | Outgoing; active; playful and bossy |
| Apartment Living | Ideal for apartment living |
| Pet Friendly | Very friendly |
| Health Concerns | Allergies; patellar luxation; hip dysplasia; eye problems; cherry eyes; diabetes; cataracts; etc |
| Overall Health | Healthy |
| Intelligence Level | Low to average |
| Trainability | Hard to train |
| Energy Level | Low energy level |
| Activity | Medium ; 45 minutes of daily activity |
| Litter Size | 6 – 11 puppies |
What To Know
• Their soft, smooth coat feels like velvet to the touch.
• Despite their tiny stature, these dogs have big, lively personalities.
• Their large, expressive eyes are a distinctive feature of the breed.
• Brussels Griffons are loyal and make excellent companions for their owners.
Characteristics
Adaptability
Brussels Griffons are a breed celebrated for their remarkable adaptability. These charming little dogs can effortlessly fit into various lifestyles and living situations.
Their small size makes them perfect for apartment dwellers, and they thrive in urban settings.
Despite their petite stature, Brussels Griffons have a big heart and an even bigger personality.
They eagerly adapt to their owners’ routines, forming strong bonds and offering unwavering loyalty.
This adaptability extends to their adaptiveness in different social settings, as they often get along well with other pets and children when properly socialized.
Their adaptable nature and affectionate demeanor make Brussels Griffons versatile companions, whether you’re a city dweller or living in the countryside.
Adaptability
Adapts Well To Apartment Living
Good For Novice Owners
Sensitivity Level
Tolerates Being Alone
Tolerates Cold Weather
Tolerates Hot Weather
Friendliness
Brussels Griffon dogs are the epitome of friendliness! These little furballs pack a whole lot of affection into their petite frames.
They’re known for their charming and sociable nature, making them fantastic companions.
With their big, soulful eyes, they can melt hearts in an instant and create an unbreakable bond with their owners.
These dogs thrive on human interaction and will gladly snuggle up on your lap or follow you around with their endearing curiosity.
Their welcoming demeanor extends to both family and strangers, making them excellent hosts at social gatherings.
Brussels Griffons are the embodiment of friendship and are sure to bring joy and laughter into your life. ❤️
All About Friendliness
Affectionate With Family
Kid-Friendly
Dog Friendly
Friendly Toward Strangers
Personality
The Brussel Griffon is a spunky and playful little fellow who is known for their loyal and loving temperament. They are both playful and protective.
Extremely devoted to their humans, these dogs are often seen to be reluctant to be separated from their families.
They have an extreme need to be the center of attention. They are extremely gentle and are good with children unless it is the children that are not gentle.
They are a non-aggressive breed, and if at they do not like something or you are too harsh on them, they could bite you out of fear.
They are very friendly, even with strangers. They get along with other animals as well, but sometimes they tend to forget their size and try to form friendships with larger breeds.
They are extremely hard to train; you should be patient and consistent with your Griffon.
Positive reinforcement will always work; harshness is not going to bring about anything good. They are not very intelligent.
They easily get bored and often bark at anything that excites them.
Temperament
Friendly with Children
Brussels Griffon dogs are like little bundles of love when it comes to kids! These pint-sized pups are not only adorable but also incredibly friendly with children.
Their affectionate nature and playful demeanor make them ideal family pets. They enjoy bonding with kids through games and snuggles, creating lasting friendships.
Plus, their small size makes them easy to manage, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for both children and Griffons. ❤️
Amicable to Other Pets
The Brussels Griffon is incredibly amicable towards other pets. Despite their small size, these affectionate dogs have big hearts and are known for their friendly nature.
They often form strong bonds with other animals in the household and enjoy their company.
Their adaptability and willingness to get along make them excellent additions to multi-pet households, fostering a harmonious and loving environment where everyone can thrive together.
Barking Tendencies
Brussels Griffons are delightful little dogs, but they have quite the bark! Despite their size, these pint-sized pups can be quite vocal.
They tend to bark to alert their owners of approaching strangers or to express their excitement.
Socialization and training can help manage their barking tendencies, ensuring a harmonious living environment.
Remember, their protective nature is part of what makes them such devoted companions!
Possibilities of Staying Alone
Alone No Worry! Brussels Griffon, the compact and affectionate breed, adapts well to solo living. These little furballs thrive in calm environments.
With toys and cozy spots, they keep entertained. Their loyal nature eases separation anxiety, making them great for busy individuals.
Though pint-sized, their love knows no bounds. Consider a Griffon for solo living, and enjoy the paw-sibilities of a delightful, low-maintenance companion. ❤️
Pros And Cons Of The Brussels Griffon Dog Breed
Pros
- Cute and affectionate companion.
- Low shedding and hypoallergenic.
- Ideal for apartment living.
- Lively and playful personality.
- Easily trainable and adaptable.
Cons
- Fragile, prone to injuries.
- Requires frequent grooming care.
- Can be stubborn at times.
- Not suitable for rough play.
- May bark excessively if not trained.
Male Vs. Female Attitude
Both the male and female variants of the Brussels Griffon look almost alike. The only difference will be that the male breeds have wider faces, and the female breeds have softer curves.
Male dogs are known to have less patience than female dogs, especially when it comes to training. The females are less tolerant of loud sounds.
Appearance
General Appearance
The Brussels Griffon, a breed often described as “small but mighty,” possesses a distinctive and charming appearance.
These little dogs stand out with their expressive faces, characterized by large, round, and dark eyes that radiate curiosity and warmth.
Their short, upturned noses and prominent underbites give them an endearing, almost comical look.
✨ Despite their diminutive size, Brussels Griffons exude confidence and elegance. Their coats can be either smooth or rough, with a range of colors, including red, black, and tan.
Their petite bodies are well-balanced, and they carry themselves with a proud and alert posture.
This breed’s enchanting appearance is matched by their delightful personalities, making them cherished companions for those who appreciate a dash of charisma in a small package.
Coat Color
The Brussels Griffon comes in Black, black and tan, red and beige colors. They either have a smooth coat or a hard wirey coat.
These dogs require lots of grooming and maintenance. If they have wirey coats, they would need to be coat stripped every three months and their hair brushed through regularly.
If their furs are smooth, brushing weekly would suffice. They do not need to be bathed often; once a month will do.
Shedding
The Brussels Griffon is a non-hypoallergenic breed that does not shed much.
When they are maintained properly, with the recommended routine followed in terms of grooming and feeding, the Brussels Griffon will shed none to minimal.
Size
The Brussels Griffon is a toy breed and is, therefore, extremely small. They are compact and squarely proportional with muscular front legs and strong well, muscled thighs.
They have small, padded, and round feet. Their expressive eyes stand out among its other adorable features.
They have large round heads which are cartoonized with their dome-like forehead. They have an arching neck that connects to a short and level back.
Vital Statistics
| DOG BREED GROUP | COMPANION DOG |
| HEIGHT | 7 – 8 INCHES |
| WEIGHT | 7 – 12 POUNDS |
| LIFE SPAN | 12 – 15 YEARS |
Health
There are some inherited health conditions that a Brussels Griffon can be affected by.
Some of these conditions are Allergies; patellar luxation; hip dysplasia; eye problems; cherry eyes; diabetes; cataracts; etc.
Health And Grooming Requirements
Amount Of Shedding
Drooling Potential
Easy To Groom
General Health
Potential For Weight Gain
Size
Maintenance And Care
The coat of the Brussels Griffon will determine the kind of care they would need. These breeds can have either a wirey coat or a smooth one.
The rough wirey coat would require to be brushed several times a week. Coat stripping should be done once every three months to maintain the rough coat.
The smooth coat, on the other hand, would need to be brushed once a week. These breeds require regular bathing.
They are not hypoallergenic but are not much of a shedder. The Brussel Griffon dogs are prone to periodontal disease.
Regular teeth cleaning is essential to maintain oral health. The Brussel Griffon is not a very energetic dog breed and isn’t hyper when it comes to activity.
They run about a lot in the house, and apart from that, they would only need 45 minutes of walking every day.
They might develop separation anxiety if they are forced apart from their parents.
They are not particularly fond of cold weather and are vulnerable to heat strokes during the summer.
Grooming
Brussels Griffons may be small, but their grooming needs are significant.
These charming dogs sport a luxurious, velvety coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling.
Bathing should be done every 2-4 weeks, depending on activity level. Their expressive eyes need gentle cleaning to avoid tear stains.
Don’t forget to trim their nails and brush their teeth for overall health and a happy, well-groomed Griffon! ✨
Food And Nutrition
The Brussel Griffon are small dogs and would need only one and a half cups of food per day. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other associated health issues. Feed your Griffon high-quality packed food. It is better if the food is grain-free and rich in omega fats.
Food Cost
On average, feeding a Brussels Griffon costs about $20-$30 per month. High-quality dog food ensures their health. Treats and occasional special meals add to the joy!
Exercise And Activity Level
The Brussels Griffon is low-energy dog. They are not very active and will require very little exercise.
A daily walk lasting up to 45 minutes would suffice; other than that, the Griffon would be already walking around the house.
They are hard to train, but with patience and consistency, you will see good progress.
Physical Requirements
Energy Level
Intensity
Exercise Needs
Potential for Playfulness
Trainability
Brussels Griffons may be petite, but they pack a punch in the trainability department! These little furballs are quick learners and eager to please.
Their intelligence shines through as they grasp commands, making them a joy to train. Due to their affectionate nature, positive reinforcement techniques work wonders.
Consistency is key when training a Brussels Griffon. Short, engaging sessions with plenty of rewards will keep them motivated.
Despite their occasional stubborn streak, their desire to bond with their owners fuels their training efforts.
These adaptable pups can thrive in various training environments, from basic obedience to more advanced tricks.
Trainability
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Easy To Train
Intelligence
Potential For Mouthiness
Prey Drive
Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Wanderlust Potential
Conclusion
The Brussels Griffon has an almost human-like face that is expressive and has long black lashes.
They were modified when they were a favorite in the Queen of Belgium’s kennel.
The Brussels Griffon was almost on the verge of extinction but was brought back after the two wars.
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FAQs On Brussels Griffons Dog Breed…
Are the Brussels Griffons much of a barker?
Your Brussels Griffon might bark at anything remotely interesting.
Are the Brussels Griffons suitable to be family dogs?
Their loving nature and their protective and loyal natures make them excellent family dogs.
Is the Brussels Griffon known to snore?
Because of their flat faces, the Griffons experience breathing problems, and this results in them snoring.
I am a passionate animal lover with a lifelong commitment to pet care. With over a decade of experience as a pet owner, I’ve nurtured a variety of furry and feathered friends, from cats and dogs to birds and reptiles. I possess a deep understanding of their unique needs, behavior, and health. My mission is to share my knowledge and insights to help fellow pet enthusiasts provide the best possible care for their beloved companions.