Originally bred to hunt and kill rats, this former Belgian street dog is a distinctive and unusual dog breed. Although he's small, he's hardly a pampered pooch. Affectionate and lively, his intelligence, sense of humor, and air of self-importance keep him one step ahead of his people. They adore him anyway.
In the U.S., there are two types of Brussels Griffons: The rough-coated Griffon and the smooth-coated Griffon, called the Petit Brabancon. In the breed's homeland of Belgium, there are three types: the Petit Brabancon (which is smooth-coated, as in the U.S.), the Brussels Griffon, which has a rough red coat, and the Belgian Griffon, which has a rough coat that can be any color other than red.
The Brussels Griffon is a small toy dog, usually weighing between 5-15 pounds. He comes in two coats, a smooth coat like a Pug or a Boxer and a rough coat like a Schnauzer. He comes in 4 colors: red which can be from LIGHT buff color to DEEP mahogany, belge which has black hairs mixed in with red, solid black and black with tan points. The ears may be cropped or uncropped. The tail is usually, but not always, docked short. The most distinguishing feature of this breed is the face. He has a short muzzle with the nose placed high between the eyes in good specimens and the nose is lower set on dogs of lesser quality. The eyes are large and appealing. Many people see the dog's expression as almost human while others think he looks monkey-like.
BRUSSELS GRIFFONS ARE NOT COMMON!
In the United States, only about 1200 new Brussels Griffon puppies are registered each year. (Compare that to over 60,000 new Golden Retriever puppies!) Many breeders charge $3500 or more, which they explain is to cover expensive C-section births, tiny litters, and a high puppy mortality rate due to birth defects and failure to thrive.
DID YOU KNOW?
Griffon's have a higher rate of C-sections
Smaller litters
Higher infant mortality
Take longer to wean
All griffon puppies wheeze and have clear nasal fluid for the first few months.
Griffons can be picky eaters ..try to stick to a food -switching and changing foods to
give variety is not good for there belly's.
Physical Characteristics
Small, compact build
Small ears
Eyes and nose are set on the same level
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 6-12 pounds
Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Temperament
Smart, happy, friendly, curious, affectionate, sensitive, willful
Interaction with people: Not recommended for small children; wary of strangers
Interaction with animals: Good with other dogs and cats
Level of attention needed: Needs significant human companionship; loves to be pampered and spoiled
Protection: Good watchdog
At Home
OK for apartments
Needs a daily walk
Grooming
May need professional grooming
Coat can be clipped and stripped
Very Light shedderto NO shed
Fido's Facts
Nicknamed "monkey dog" for its humorous expression
Played the character "Verdel" in the 1997 movie "As Good as it Gets"
Also known as the griffon Bruxellois
The word "griffon" means wire haired
The Brussels Griffon is a breed most memorable for its unique and distinguishing look. The trio of wide set eyes, flat face and prominent chin coupled with their cheerful disposition has won the dog a small but dedicated following. Its expression is commonly said to characterize that of an elf or monkey. Although grouped in the toy category, the Griffon is quite a sturdy, stocky breed with thick square proportions, their stance commonly compared to that of a Boxer. The body is somewhat short yet holds the large head well. Both the ears and tail can be cropped although this is not a requirement.
**Interest in the Brussels Griffon peaks form time to time with occasional appearances on movies (Jack Nicholson's "As good as it gets") or TV ("Rags" on Spin City).
The temperament.
They are all heart, endearing themselves to their owners. Where ever their owner goes, the Griffon will automatically follow. In fact, the tiny blessing is not so much meant to be a family pet as it is a constant companion. It would not be out of the question to see this breed of dog accompanying its owner almost as an escort. As many have come to find, the elfin animal is one that greatly relies on regular contact with its owner. It has not been known to do well when left alone for long periods of time.
While they love to be the center of attention, the Griffon is perfectly happy to have a companion or two, whether another dog or other small household pet. There have been occasions when a Griffon, having a rather slim concept of its own size, has been known to try and assert his or her dominance with a dog much larger than itself. Socialization from an early age can help to keep this to a minimum. Socialization is also necessary for this breed because of its rare look. It is not uncommon for passersby to comment on the Griffon and want to take a closer look or offer a pat on the head. However, the Griffon is one that can be wary of strangers and may feel threatened. In general, a Griffon will keep to his or her master, warming up to others on its own terms. Not outwardly aggressive, they can be shy with new people and situations. Although they will bark should the doorbell ring, unless they are excessively lonely, they are not a breed prone to the habit of barking at all times of the day and night.
They prefer a calm environment and for the most part will avoid confrontation to the best of their ability.
