Brussels Griffon | Dog Breed

Last updated May 29, 2024

Size

Varies

Popularity

One of the Most Popular

Typical Lifespan

About 12 years

Exercise

Brussels Griffon enjoys daily short walks and regular play sessions to stay happy and healthy.

Grooming Needs

Brussels Griffons require regular brushing to prevent matting, especially for their wiry coat, and occasional professional grooming to maintain their distinct facial features.

Country of Origin

Belgium

Adaptability

Brussels Griffons are highly adaptable, thriving in both apartment living and suburban homes as long as they receive sufficient attention and exercise.

Shedding Level

Brussels Griffons have a low shedding level, with minimal hair loss throughout the year.

Energiness

Brussels Griffons have a moderate energy level, enjoying playtime and walks but also content to relax with their owners.

Vocality

Brussels Griffons are known to be quite vocal and can bark frequently, often alerting their owners to any unusual activity.

Trainability

Brussels Griffons are intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to consistent, positive training methods. However, they can be a bit stubborn, so patience and persistence are key.

Dietary Needs

Brussels Griffons need a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support their energy levels and overall health.

Weight Range

8-12 lbs

Child Friendliness

Varies

Social Needs

For Whom?

The Brussels Griffon, a small bundle of energy and love, is perfectly suited for a home where it can be surrounded by people. This breed enjoys human presence so much that the ideal home for it would be one where it is not left alone for long periods. A family where someone is home most of the day or even someone who works from home would be perfect. Griffons are also very adaptable and can live in either an apartment or a house, as long as they have opportunities for daily activity and interaction with people.

Since griffons love to be part of a "pack", they fit well in families with children or other pets. Their playfulness and sociability make them great companions for kids, provided that the children are taught how to be gentle with the dog. Active seniors who seek companionship and a reason to go for daily walks would also find a joyful and energetic partner in a griffon.

Overall, the Brussels Griffon is an excellent choice for anyone who values personality and companionship in a dog. This breed is not just a pet, but a family member who brings joy and laughter to every day.

Character

Affectionate

Intelligent

Playful

Companionable

The Brussels Griffon, a small-sized dog breed with a huge personality, is a sociable and brave companion that wins hearts faster than you can say "sit." This charming Belgian is like a tiny gentleman or lady, featuring a multifaceted character: it is both stubborn and smart, gentle and playful.

The Griffon is like a stand-up comedian for a small circle: it loves being the center of attention and makes its owner laugh daily with its original antics and expressiveness. Its lively and curious nature ensures that life with this dog never gets boring. The Griffon is like a living reminder that the best things indeed come in small packages.

This breed is wholeheartedly affectionate towards humans and thoroughly enjoys the company of its family. It is a loyal friend, always ready to follow its owner like a little shadow—whether it involves household chores or cuddling side by side on the couch. Despite its small size, the Griffon is not afraid to defend its family, and its brave heart is surprisingly big.

Although the Griffon is social and loves human company, it also has an independent side. It can be a stubborn little tyke who wants to do things its own way, but this trait makes training an interesting challenge. Thanks to its intelligence and eagerness to please, the Griffon, however, learns quickly as long as the training is consistent and positive.

The Brussels Griffon is the perfect companion for anyone who needs a small dog with a big personality by their side. It adapts well to life both in the city and in the countryside, as long as it receives enough attention and love. This fluffy companion not only brings joy and laughter to your days but is also a loyal and loving family member, ready to share life's joys and sorrows—and everything in between.

History

The Brussels Griffon originally hails from 19th century Belgium, primarily developing in and around Brussels. This small yet bold breed emerged from crossbreeding Affenpinschers with local toy dogs. Their main job was to keep stables and horse sleeping quarters free from rats and other pests, making them highly valued working dogs among their owners.

The ancestors of the Brussels Griffon were known for their alertness and sprightliness, and their small size allowed them to chase pests into tight spots. Over time, their unique appearance and expressive faces began to draw attention beyond their working capabilities. The dogs’ owners, often carriage drivers and stable workers, valued their companionship and warmth.

By the end of the 1800s, the Brussels Griffon had gained popularity among the upper social classes as well. Its charming nature and small size made it an ideal companion dog, suitable for city living. Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium, a keen dog lover, fell in love with the breed and owned several Brussels Griffons. The queen’s patronage helped spread the breed and increase its popularity across Europe.

In the early 20th century, the Brussels Griffon made its way to Britain and later to the United States, where it quickly found a foothold among dog enthusiasts. Although it has never reached the popularity of some other breeds, it has maintained a solid base of supporters and continues to be valued both in show circles and as a pet.

The Brussels Griffon is known for its expressive face and big heart, which seems too large for its small body. Its history as a working dog protecting stables has endowed it with a bold and independent character, yet it has retained the ability to form deep and loving bonds with its people. Today, the Brussels Griffon is a beloved companion that brings joy and laughter to the lives of its owners.