Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are delightful family dogs that bond closely with their owners, preferring to spend most of their time around their families and loved ones. They are confident, alert, and usually very well mannered.
They can be shy around strangers,…read more below
Quick Facts
LIFESPAN (YRS)
10-15
WEIGHT (LBS)
8-10
TEMPERMENT
Alert
COLOR
Black
HEIGHT (in)
7-8
Brussels Griffon Personality
Brussels Griffons are delightful family dogs that bond closely with their owners, preferring to spend most of their time around their families and loved ones. They are confident, alert, and usually very well mannered.
They can be shy around strangers, though this can be overcome with proper socialization. They are friendly and loving with their families, including any children or pets in the home.
These dogs have a history of being hard workers, and can make a wonderful working companion for those whose jobs have them outdoors a lot. Their versatility and adaptability to a variety of living situations make these pups popular pets, for family homes and single owners alike.
Brussels Griffon Characteristics
Intelligence
2/5
Trainability
1/5
Grooming Required
1/5
Exercise Needed
2/5
Family/Child Friendly
1/5
Stranger Friendly
3/5
Affection Level
3/5
Barking Tendencies
3/5
Shedding Level
1/5
Dog Park Friendly
3/5
Cat Friendly
5/5
Apartment Friendly
5/5
Brussels Griffon Care
A Brussels Griffon will do well with a nutritionally balanced, premium dog food that is appropriately formulated to suit their size, age, and level of activity.
To avoid overeating and unhealthy weight gain, it is suggested to stick to a feeding schedule, rather than free feeding. Meal portions should also be made suitable for the dog’s age and activity level.
Always make sure that your Brussel Griffon has plenty of clean drinking water available for them to stay properly hydrated.
Brussels Griffons can have one of two types of coat; coarse, or smooth. Both require weekly brushing to keep their coats free of dirt and loose hairs. The biggest noticable difference between the two types is that the coarse hair Griffons do not shed much, and will not require more frequent brushing during shedding season.
Regularly trimming their nails will help to keep them comfortable, as well as to reduce the risk of injury as they run and play.
Check their ears each week for debris and waxy buildup. Wipe the ears as needed with either a damp cloth or a dog ear cleaning solution to mitigate the risk of ear infection.
Brush their teeth several times a week, if not daily, to help avoid tooth and gum problems from forming.
Brussels Griffons are not overly energetic dogs, but they do require at least 30 minutes of exercise every day to maintain their health and happiness.
A long walk and some time to play with their owners is enough to satisfy the Griffon. They love spending time with their families, and will always appreciate an opportunity to play some backyard games with them.
Involving them in certain canine sports such as tracking or agility can also be a fun way to make sure that they are getting the workout the need.
Always be sure to keep your Brussels Griffon on a leash or a lead whenever they are not in a secure area, such as a well fenced yard or indoors.
The Brussels Griffon is a highly intelligent and well tempered breed that tends to respond very well to training. Although, early socialization and puppy training classes are still suggested to help them grow into well rounded adults.
These are relatively sensitive dogs that will not respond well to harsh treatment. Keep training sessions fun and playful to help keep them engaged, and use positive reinforcement as incentive to do well.
The strong bonds they form with their owners means that they can become anxious and act out if left alone for too long at a time, so it is best to make sure that there is always someone at home with them.
History
Brussels Griffon History & Lineage
The Brussels Griffon originated in Belgium, and are descended from the Smousje, a very old native breed. Their rise to popularity began around the 19th century, being prized dogs among nobles and the working class alike.
The first of the breed was registered with Belgium’s kennel club in 1883. As these dogs began to be exported to other countries, interest in the breed continued to grow. In 1897 the Griffon Bruxellois Club was formed in England, and another club for the breed, the Brussels Griffon Club, was established in the U.S. in 1945 to help further document this lovable breed.
Unfortunately, both World Wars took a heavy toll on the breed, and by the 1950’s they were scarcely seen outside of their native Belgium. Although they may not be very numerous, their lovable spirits have earned them a special place in the hearts of many dog lovers around the world.
Brussels Griffon Medical Challenges
The Brussels Griffon is a predominantly healthy breed. Some of these dogs have been known to experience heart problems, cataracts, patellar luxation, and hip dysplasia. However, most Griffons live full lives without any serious issues. Annual checkups with your veterinarian will play an important role in helping you to catch and treat any issues that may arise. The National Breed Club also suggests that you speak with your vet about ophthalmologist, patella, and hip evaluations to help you better understand and ensure your Griffon’s health. Always be sure to contact your vet right away if you have any serious concerns about your dog’s health and wellbeing. Your pup will be grateful of all the loving care that you provide for them, and they will be sure to find plenty of ways to show it that will continue to joy to your life.
Brussels Griffon Care
Monthly
Lifetime
Breed Selector
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Other Services
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Dog Trainer
Dog Walker
Dog Sitter
Dog Groomer